Guns & Firearms

Following World War II, collecting firearms became a popular trend, especially antique cartridge firearms. American guns and firearms have become one of the fastest growing collectible categories at auction since the 1950s.

The Antique Gun Auction Market

The prices for antique guns have risen over time due to the lack of supply. Prices also vary depending on what is in popular demand. For instance, certain manufacturers, like Colt and Winchester Repeating Arms Company, are consistently sought after at gun auctions.

The Types of Firearms For Sale at Auction

Generally speaking, firearms are divided into one of two very broad categories based on their size:

Handguns

Pistols: These smaller firearms are designed to be used in one hand. The most common actions are the single shot and semi-automatic.

Revolvers: Feature a revolving cylinder with more than one chamber and one or multiple barrels for firing.

Long Guns

Rifles: Crafted to be shot from the shoulder, featuring a barrel with grooves or “rifling” cut into the walls.

Shotguns: Sometimes referred to as scatterguns or pepper guns because of the shot pellets spread upon leaving the barrel.

Determining The Value of an Antique Firearm

The valuation process of guns begins with the make or model, which is most important to individuals who collect based on specialization. When building a collection of modern or antique firearms, buyers gravitate toward the quality of a maker’s products, the role a make or model has played in history, or the “aura of romance” surrounding a particular manufacturer. Other factors considered include its condition, provenance, rarity, and artistic appeal. Some firearms are prized more as art pieces for their fine engravings.

As gun and firearm values, market research, and publications grow, so too will collectors’ interest. Some antique firearms can sell for six-figure prices at auction, suggesting that this younger collecting interest has a bright and certain future.

Learn more from the Invaluable Guide to Antique and Collector Firearms.