Evaluating your Breyer horse collection can be an exciting and rewarding process, especially if you’re interested in understanding the value of your items. “If you are like most of us under the influence of model horse collecting, whoops, I mean the hobby (LOL), then your herd is probably growing in leaps and bounds!” Here are some steps you can take to evaluate your Breyer horse collection:
- Research Models:
- Start by identifying each model in your collection. Breyer releases numerous models, and some may be more valuable or collectible than others.
- Use resources like the official Breyer website, collector forums, and price guides to gather information about each model, including release dates, special editions, and any unique features.
- Evaluate the condition of each model. Collectors generally value items that are in excellent or near-mint condition the most. Check for any scratches, chips, overspray, dust under the paint coat, black or white marks, rubs or other damage. “Also, note the condition of the original packaging if available. You will want to further note if the model is NIB (new in box), NIP (New in package), a shelf model (a few marks) or a body (needs work). Check out this resource for more classifications in evaluating your model’s condition.”
- “My favorite resource that I go to first is a website called identifyyourbreyer.com.”
- Identify Rarity:
- Determine the rarity of each model. Limited Editions (LE), Web Specials, Special Runs (SR), Collector’s Club (CC), Volunteer Models, Raffle Models or discontinued models are often more valuable. Be sure to look for any special markings, colors, or features that can make a particular model unique and add value, such as an appaloosa that is missing its spots or a mis-stamped horse. It’s fun to find a blooper in your collection sometimes!
- Consult Price Guides:
- Refer to Breyer horse price guides and catalogs to get an idea of the current market value for each model.
- Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, and the condition of the model is a significant factor in determining value. “Sometimes it can be challenging to price a model because not many places list values for them, but you can figure out a fair price by checking on Google for your model and then go to the various auction sites, sales platforms and stores to get a ballpark idea. You can also have someone who buys collections help you with values.”
- Check Online Marketplaces:
- Look for similar Breyer horse models on online marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy, Breyer Horse Classified or dedicated collector websites.
- Pay attention to both asking prices and actual sale prices to gauge market demand.
- Consider Authentication:
- If you have particularly rare or valuable models, consider getting them authenticated by Breyer or a reputable expert. Authentication can add credibility and value to your collection. “A great way to prove authentication is through the stamps that Breyer may put on the belly of the horse or a COA (Certificate of Authenticity) that may have come with the model. Some models may have Hang Tags (around the neck of the horse). Others are labeled with a sticker on their packaging. Also, you can provide proof through pictures you find when identifying your model.”
- Join Collector Communities:
- Participate in Breyer collector forums, social media groups, or local collector events. Engaging with other collectors is an excellent way to gain valuable insights into the market and help you stay informed about current trends.
- Document Your Collection:
- Keep detailed records of your collection, including model names, release dates, conditions, run numbers, color variations, original packaging and any other relevant information. This can be helpful for both your personal reference and potential future sales. “Cataloging a large collection can be a huge task and time consuming if you are adding and selling horses on a constant basis. You can keep track on an Excel spreadsheet, in the latest Breyer Collection Catalog or even the old fashion way, in a hand written notebook. I have tried some of the software available for tracking Breyer collections, but nothing is simple and all inclusive. Choose what works best for you!”
- Consider Professional Appraisal:
- For larger or more valuable collections, you may want to consider hiring a professional appraiser specializing in collectibles or Breyer horses. They can provide a more accurate assessment of the collection’s overall value.
- Condition Assessment:
Remember that the value of collectibles can be subjective and may vary based on market trends and collector preferences. Regularly updating your knowledge and staying connected with the collecting community can help you make informed decisions about your Breyer horse collection.
Happy trails to you!
