[MRCA] WW2 Radio Prices

[Captain D.]

          I had heard that the 2019 MVPA Convention had very slim pickings as far as workable radios in restorable shape and legal to operate were concerned, and that most of the stuff was Korea or later vintage.  I've been to several shows where there were dealers selling plenty of World War Two vintage electronics, but the stuff was in such horrible condition or so heavily modified that it simply wasn't worth purchasing at any price.  Too much restoration work was needed to bring the sets back to life, if that were even possible.  And the prices being asked for this junk were nuts. There is also the problem that some of these radios can't operate on frequencies that are legal for use.  Even if that radio is in pristine, working condition, the fact you can't play with it sends the price of that vintage military radio plummeting.  That's also going to turn off potential customers unless they're just looking for some decoration for their vehicle or man-cave.  That's just the way it is.   Customers are getting wiser, and more picky as to what they will buy.  But that also means when they find the radio they want, and the set is correct,  complete and working, while they are going to haggle for the best price, they're going to pay a decent price, and they know it.  A seller just has to be firm and patient.  Nobody is making any more of these radios, and getting them and keeping them in working condition is becoming increasingly rare.
Mark D.WW2RDO




In a message dated 5/23/2020 2:25:03 PM Eastern Standard Time, navrad at ptd.net writes:

Hi Mark,I would like to know where you saw these asking prices listed back in 2012 because for what those sets are I believe they are way overinflated. Even if they include most or all accessories.I have or had many of these sets and this past year at the 2019 MVPA Convention I was able to sell a complete SCR-284 (BC-654) with every accessory including the vehicle mount FM-41 and a SCR-506 (BC-652/653) with all accessories with chest CH-74 NOS with canvas cover and rack for $2000.00 Each, ready to install in vehicle.I felt fortunate to get those prices.These were both in excellent condition.I also had a SCR-508 set (BC-603/604) complete with CH-74 NOS with canvas cover and accessories for the same $2k that didn't sell.I do think it's worth every cent of that but to ask $3.5k is just too much. Maybe on some of those overpriced dealers online are asking it but for the average person to realize those prices is highly unlikely.Not trying to be a downer, just realistic in my view.I have many sets to sell. Just don't have the time it takes to assemble and advertise or go to shows.My back hurts thinking about it.Regards,Steve N3NNG


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-------- Original message --------From: "Captain D. via MRCA" <mrca at mailman.qth.net>Date: 5/23/20 12:47 PM (GMT-05:00)To: MRCA at mailman.qth.netSubject: [MRCA] WW2 Radio Prices
I have just been looking into what complete, working BC-1306, BC-654 and BC-659 radio sets were going for in the past.  On the G504 site, in 2012, these sets, complete and working, were selling for $3500, $3500 and $2500.  Seems my asking prices reflect zero inflation in 8 years. 

Mark D.WW2RDO

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