How to Value an Obscure Horn (Holton)

[TexasTBone]

I am getting ready to sell my Holton TR258, but they are virtually impossible to find, so I can't find any comps anywhere. Even TromboneChat doesn't have a single post about the TR258.

This is the TR158 with a factory screw bell. Should I just use TR158 listings as comps (which vary widely)? Does the screw bell bring any appreciable added value? Also, I have both the factory case (in fair condition) and a brand new Marcus Bonna case for it. Am I better off selling the MB case separately or just pushing up the price by what I'd sell the case for?

[Elow]

I think basing it off the 158 listing would be fine and then bump up price like $150-200 for the screw bell. I would list the MB case up separately and mention in the listing that you have that as well for sale.

All my opinion, though

[hyperbolica]

Unless you need a quick sale, start it high, and bring it down over time. It's easy to lower the price, harder to raise it once posted. Those horns have a niche appeal.

Yeah, I'd price the fancy case separately, although this is probably the best chance you'll have to sell a screw bell case.

[jacobgarchik]

If you are looking for a quality trigger instrument and need a screw bell for travel there are basically zero options between an expensive boutique horn and buying something uncut and having it cut for ~$500 plus case. So I would think that's a big plus for this horn.

[TexasTBone]

If you are looking for a quality trigger instrument and need a screw bell for travel there are basically zero options between an expensive boutique horn and buying something uncut and having it cut for ~$500 plus case. So I would think that's a big plus for this horn.

That's a great way to look at it, and I'll definitely use that in my listing when I get it back from the shop.

[spencercarran]

Selling in the factory case and then listing MB separately (or as add-on for the trombone listing) makes sense I think.

Standard 158 is pretty easily available at any time, the factory screw bell is much rarer and much cooler. Having factory original case is also neat. I think you could probably bump the price up several hundred above the higher end for 158 listings and see where it takes you.

[spencercarran]

Just saw the listing - too low! I'm tempted, and I don't even like or want any large tenors.

[TexasTBone]

Just saw the listing - too low! I'm tempted, and I don't even like or want any large tenors.

TR158 prices are all over the place, with most settling between $700-800. Lacquer wear seems to be one of the biggest reasons horn values drop, especially on older step-up horns - everyone wants a pretty horn. I wish buyers felt the same way I do about lacquer wear (as in I don't care).

I figured this price seemed about right after looking around and getting advice from here, but if it's too low and that means it can land in the hands of a student who really needs it to get to the next level of trombone playing, I'm happy.