The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I am buying a small collection of machines and a substantial number of cylinders. I am told there are 500 cylinder records. What is the best way to sell them? I have not had a chance to look at them but I suspect they are a typical collection with two and four minute cylinders in both wax and indestructible surfaces. Any opinions would be appreciated. I was wondering if I should market them in groups of 25 or ?. Jerry Blais

Jerry, I'd sell the celluloid cylinders on eBay. I have bought hundreds of cylinders on eBay and do a lot of repeat business with sellers that post big clear pictures and accurate descriptions. I would list my best records singularly and would sell less desirable titles or lesser grades in smaller groups than 25, maybe 10. I buy mostly singles to avoid buying duplicates. I rarely buy wax records online for fear of breakage in shipment. It has been my sad experience that a lot of sellers don't pack very well.

I agree that BA's travel well by post if properly packed, and that many sellers do not pack properly. I once received a BA in a used manilla window envelope, protected only by it's original box, and just managed to intercept the postman before he rammed it through the letterbox.

Selling singly is probably the most profitable method if you have the time and patience, but postage costs are a killer in the UK. I am currently watching a Royal Purple Amberol on eBay which is languishing on £2.70, but the seller wants £6.90 to post it!