By Chris Shute • Published on Wednesday 16 September 2015, 7:57pm
You have inherited/acquired/discovered some Meccano. We are frequently asked:
Is it very valuable?
Quite possibly, if you can answer yes to most of the following: Original box? Contents complete? Original manual? Good condition? Unusual item, e.g. Historic Motor Car or Aeroplane kit? However, there's a lot of Meccano out there that isn't worth a fortune; in fact it's only the really rare stuff that's worth a fair bit, such as the aforementioned motor car and aeroplane kits, for example. At one end of the scale you have these and pre-war complete sets, with very early Meccano sets, known as Mechanics Made Easy, being very sought after, and commanding high prices. At the other end of the scale there's basic sets in average condition, say a mid' 1960's no. 3 outfit, which is probably only worth in the region of £15 or so.
How can I find a buyer?
- Take some photos, to give others an idea of the quantity and condition of your Meccano items.
- Search online for Meccano dealers who will take second-hand Meccano. A dealer may be prepared to travel some distance to pick up a Meccano collection, and relieve you of the worry of sorting it. However, a dealer is unlikely to give you its full value. After all, they are a business.
- Consider a traditional auction house for high-value and rare items. Be aware that commission and perhaps other costs will be deducted from the sale proceeds.
- Consider an online auction site, particularly if you or a (good!) friend are already set up for this. You will notice that such sites often sell many small lots for high prices. You might do well using this strategy if you are prepared for the additional effort, postage and hassle.
- Car-boot sellers may be willing to swap or part-exchange something even more useful to you than your box of old Meccano.
- Your local free-advertising newspaper could well provide a buyer.
The Telford & Ironbridge Meccano Society may also be able to find a buyer for your Meccano. Contact the Webmaster.
Can I donate some Meccano to a good cause?
We try to promote Meccano building for all (see our aims on the homepage). At our exhibitions there is always something to press/turn/have a go with. We now have our own hands-on building tables full of donated Meccano parts, so that anyone can make something. Previously, we have been able to give some Meccano to a keen young enthusiast to boost their Meccano career. Who knows, your Meccano gift could help inspire a future engineer, inventor or scientist. And they won't mind what colour or age the parts are. They'll already know that ancient and modern Meccano is fully compatible. That dusty old box of Meccano in your attic is waiting to bring pleasure and wisdom to somebody. Contact us.
Actually, I might keep my Meccano…
Of course! But you must build something with it. Anything at all. Get the family involved. Then come to a Meccano exhibition! (See our events page.)