What's my bird worth?

[steveonbass]

I have a black 77 bird - unbroken with average player wear and a couple extra strap pin holes and original case.  It is a GREAT bird but I am in an economic crisis and need to sell something.  The bird sees the least amount of stage time so I am considering selling it.  I don't want to and may sell something else instead.  I know that if i sell this vintage bird, I'll probably never be able to afford another - let alone in black.  That being said, I need to sell something.  What's this beast worth?

wasn't sure where to post this - hope it's ok here

[barend]

That is a really nice one! the only one that I like better is a white TBird.

There is a ´76 one on Evilbay right now for 1900$ BIN. So I guess that is about the same price for yours.

[steveonbass]

That is a really nice one! the only one that I like better is a white TBird.

There is a ´76 one on Evilbay right now for 1900$ BIN. So I guess that is about the same price for yours.

The one on eBay is pretty thoroughly messed with so, value wise, i don't consider it a strong market indicator. 

[TBird1958]

I think around 2200.00............Its unbroken, they're not making 'em any more. Once you set a price you can't very well raise it either!
My own .02 is that you should keep it, but then again I love the 'Birds. 

[chromium]

The rate things are going, 2200-2300 seems realistic.  It might go higher if you go the auction route with a low starting bid, but you'd probably end up just handing the difference over to Ebay and Paypal afterwards.

The bird has a unique enough sound that I might be inclined to keep it and sell off one of the P-basses instead (looking at your family pic in the other thread).  Still a tough choice, though.

[steveonbass]

My own .02 is that you should keep it, but then again I love the 'Birds.  Wink

I'm trying. I promise. I REALLY would like to keep this one.

[TBird1958]

If I remember correctly my black 'bird and yours are very close in serial#'s too.

[rockinrayduke]

Keep it if you can, Steve. You'll always regret selling it.

[EvilLordJuju]

The bird sees the least amount of stage time so I am considering selling it. 

In general, that is a good way of determining what to get rid of.... BUT thunderbird prices have been going up faster than a lot of other things. I agree, if you can sell something else, DO. You won't be able to buy this back in a hurry]

By the way, my 79 ebony thunderbird sees practically no use (neck dive - I can only use it sitting down - I use a pick and don't like playing right at the bridge all the time) but i'll hang on to it; sounds great in the studio, and in not too many years will be unaffordable.

[Rhythm N. Bliss]

Better to move into a friend's garage than sell that baby!

These are tough times tho, believe me I know.
I may be moving someplace humble next year to be able to hold on to my treasures.

[barend]

I see my price estimate was a bit on the low side. Didn't look at the pictures of the one on Ebay.
I would also keep it if I were you (says the man who wants to sell his G3).
Sell your TV or car instead 

A year ago I didn't like Tbirds at all, now I love them....what's happening to me? Gibson is an addiction.

[Chris P.]

A couple of months ago a mint '76 Bird with chrome covers and case went for 2,750 euros. That bass was in a very good state.

[Barklessdog]

Be sure to sell it internationally.

[steveonbass]

Thanks for all the info - and suggestions to keep her - I'm really trying.