Sheridans-were uncommon in 1950's 1960's-expensive hard to findSheridans were no longer "too expensive" as the supergrades where already past. push safeties were run of the mill and actually made in large numbers (check production numbers). and out of the benjamin guns it was actually not a great step up in price between the 347/342 and the blue and silverstreaks. we are not talking about collector grade guns here, but run of the mill C9 and such, going for what are exhorbitant prices.you are right, you can use Ebay to find that buyer that will pay a higher price, but it does not mean that the guns are worth that. ebay is not a market trend setter as it is a bidding site. speculation will inflate prices and the way is designed it encourages bidding wars that will inflate prices. I can still pick up used sheridans for 75 to 150 dollars... you just gotta know where to find them.As far as the books, at least they give you a range and history on the gun, and it allows to "standardize " the value of the guns. when people ask what something is worth, saying "go to ebay" might as well be like saying "pick a number"... you can find your item listed at any price. *(&^, look at the Benjamin 392 and 397 now... they were 169 at cabelas, now they are 189 with synth stocks... i bet you can find one in ebay listed for 300... and a poor uneducated "airgun value wise" soul ready to buy it. its not worth that as a new one is cheaper... but they just may not know that and the seller is cashing in on that. Speculation is the appraisers worst enemy.
But in the end-PRICE SELLS- price something kinda low-and it sells quickly-all the puffery in the world can't overcome PRICE SELLS-better to price slightly low-and get it SOLD-move onAmen. PS: and its always ok to overpay for british airguns... guilty as charged!!!
are you talking Karmann ghia?... that is absolutely correct, but to be honest, there are other italian designers that must have been "naturalized" italians, as their designs leave something to be said... IE Giugiaro (most lambo &^^& is bodied by him, except the miura, which must have been designed by the janitor... that one is ok..., the isuzu impulse, and other strange trips in aerodynamics...lol)