Vandercook No.1 Proof Press

First time I have posted something. Have a Vandercook No1 proof press that I’m trying to find the value of? How would someone determine that? Been in garage for 15 years but just needs a good cleaning and oiling to become fully operational I’ve been told. Any help would be appreciated.

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Plate on side say to use this number when ordering parts.
52 6246

Plate on side say to use this number when ordering parts.
52 6246

Plate on side says to use this number when ordering parts.
52 6246

The plate on side of press says to use this number when ordering parts. 52 6246

Here is an interesting fact that press sold for 120.00 in 1934 based on the vandercook website (http://vandercookpress.info/v1-14-2.html)

U.S. Inflation Rate, $120 in 1934 to 2018
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index, the dollar experienced an average inflation rate of 3.55% per year. Prices in 2018 are 1777.5% higher than prices in 1934.

That being said its condition and the market desire and how quickly you need to pass the press along will really determine its value. Also posting photos help a lot do you have any?

Vandercook No.1 model serial number 6246 was shipped March 26, 1935 to Fleming Potter Co., 1028 S. Adams St., Peoria Illinois. It was sold through the Chicago branch of American Type Founders. I am not sure what the 52 part of that number refers to.

Average inflation from then to now!?!?!? Are you nuts????? Greg is simply asking what todays ‘value’would be to someone needing a proof press. All based on need and desirability. Also, it would always be very helpful to give everyone a clue as to the regional (or specific) location of this item. A buyer would also need to factor how to get it to them.

Rick

Gosh Rick, did you read my whole comment or were you just so incensed that you had to stop and call me nuts?

Yes, Its all about the value (perceived or not) which Greg asked about in his request to the blog. I actually gave him something to work with. Site unseen and without any sentimental value from seller or buyer that press in new like condition would sell for apx $2300.00. Its up to him to determine what he wants to sell it for and to whom. A I know of a recent Vandercook 17 that sold for a little over $1500.00 and it had a bent rail that needed fixing and a major cleanup to remove rust before it could even print.
Greg try sending a note to Paul Maxon at vandercook.info about your press (with Photos) if you want an appraisal. He may charge for it but it’s worth an try.

I come to briar press to share information and try to help the 2018 letterpress community.

Gosh Rick, did you read my whole comment or were you just so incensed that you had to stop and call me nuts?

Yes, Its all about the value (perceived or not) which Greg asked about in his request to the blog. I actually gave him something to work with. Site unseen and without any sentimental value from seller or buyer that press in new like condition would sell for apx $2300.00. Its up to him to determine what he wants to sell it for and to whom. A I know of a recent Vandercook 17 that sold for a little over $1500.00 and it had a bent rail that needed fixing and a major cleanup to remove rust before it could even print.
Greg try sending a note to Paul Maxon at vandercook.info about your press (with Photos) if you want an appraisal. He may charge for it but it’s worth an try.

I come to briar press to share information and try to help the 2018 letterpress community.

I am maybe a little sensitive about press prices since they seem to have rocketed into the stratosphere in the past decade or so.

It breaks my heart to see what people want for even relatively crappy entry level presses these days. How is someone supposed to get into letterpress at all if they are priced out of the market? Back in the day a very nice Showcard, Nolan, or similar presses capable of doing small poster work were $30 - $50 over the years. I personally collected and then GAVE AWAY easily a dozen or so to beginers, just getting started.I wish I had a few back now that I teach an occassional poster-printing workshop, but alas their cost it too prohibitive.

Rick