THIS IS FROM MY FRIENDS FRIEND IN BIRMINGHAM,
GARY,
LOCAL EXPERT ON DRUMS THERE>--------
Mike,
Your friend has a great attention to detail. Overall the drums look very nice and they have been well kept. The issues with the drums such as scratches, nicks, etc are usually expected with a kit of this age, but overall they are in very good condition and real beauties. The configuration is quite rare to find in a complete package like this. Having all of the old hardware does add to the worth of the kit, but not a whole lot. Typically only real die hard collectors would be willing to pay a whole lot extra for the hardware and cases. It is just the way it is. However in no way am I implying that he should think of separating the stands from the drums.
As far as their value and what he could sell them for, I tend to quote the lower end of the spectrum because it is all relative to how bad the buyer wants them. I do agree that a true Ludwig fanatic collector would be willing to pay more than the average Joe. The best way to reach that audience is either by listing them on ebay or one of the numerous forums you can find with a quick google search. Assuming nothing has changed since the pictures were taken and they are in the exact same condition, I would put the value anywhere from around $1500 to $3500. I know that is a big range but the average person who wants them because they look cool would probably pay between $1500 to $2000. The die hard collector who wants them because he has been searching for years because this configuration is the one missing piece to his collection or had a kit just like this growing up would be willing to pay more, in the $2500 to $3500 range. I would label these as "very good condition" and true collectors put more weight on that than does the typical player. If they did not have the minor issues and were what would be considered "mint" it would be possible to get to the $4000 + range with all hardware and cases. If it were me , I would list them on ebay with a starting bid of $1500 to $1800 with a reserve of $2000. I would put a pretty high shipping cost on it as well because it is a royal pain in the ass to ship any kit, especially one of this size and since these drums are heavier than most it will cost a pretty penny to ship them. I had to google where Bloomington is but the other option would be to say you would meet within a hundred mile radius to save on shipping. That might entice buyers from the Chicago, Indy, and St. Louis area. You could also put them on Craigslist in those cities and mention in the add you would be willing to meet or even hand deliver them for an extra charge.
I hope all that helps and please remember it is JUST my opinion and somewhat of an educated guess. Everyone wants a deal, so I would expect a lot of low ball offers. The market is always fluctuating so it is hard to put an exact value on them. Usually to find a buyer who is willing to pay top dollar, it is often a waiting game and can take a while to get top dollar. They are quite beautiful and if I didnt already have too many kits I would be willing to make an offer. Please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with or if you are ever looking for a new (or old :)) kit.
Take Care
Gary
