How can I learn value of my W. Bingham?

[BOOMERDKM]

Bought in an auction and cleaned to read maker, W. Bingham Co, Cleveland. Has an inset emblem for Knights of Columbus on the pearl handle. Plan to sell on eBay but know nothing of potential value. Thanks! Debbie

[Gunsil]

Bingham was not a maker, they were retailers who had knives made for them by companies who made knives. Some were made by Ulster Knife Co. Your cute little knife is known as a "lobster" pattern. Regarding value, many collectors prefer their knives without added emblems like Masons, Odd Fellows Elks,etc but there are also folks who collect things just because they are related to those organizations. My experiece with knives on ebay is that even if started at $.99 they still reach market value. I'd start it at $9.99 and let it ride to market value since ebay prices are basically market value these days. Most of us here use ebay "sold items" in any category to get an idea of current value of knives. If you look up "pearl lobster knife" and go to sold items on the left toolbar you will see what similar knives have sold for.

[ea42]

I agree with Gene. On Ebay I always start my knives out at $4.95 and let the bidders determine the value. More often than not they sell for more using this method than I would have thought they were worth. Good clear pictures of all sides and tang stamps with the knife head-on, not at some obtuse angle, are most important. Your pictures are great.

Eric

[BOOMERDKM]

Thank you, Gene and Eric, for the info!

[ea42]

Good luck on the sale!

[bestgear]

…. Has an inset emblem for Knights of Columbus on the pearl handle

Debbie - I’d recommend highlighting the KofC affiliation more than anything else, probably more of those collectors than W. Bingham or pearl fraternal knife collectors. Just my $0.02