My collection began with the Luger i inherited from my father. I have always been fascinated by the pistol. It's particularly special because he got it from his father, who brought it back from WW-II. That one stays in the family and I've already named a heir in my own Will.
I avoided collecting anything of value until I retired and stopped moving around the country for my career. Now I have the time and space to assemble the collections I have always been most curious about.
In the meantime, I have inherited more guns from other relatives. I carefully documented each of them with photos and a Gun Log book I keep. When my collection started to grow in value, I had the entire collection appraised and then I insured them. I also have arrangements with fellow gun collectors to take possession of their guns, should they reach a point in their lives where they can no longer enjoy them. And, visa versa.
I keep log books for everything including my gun collection. It has notes from my research, references, and current photos. My computer makes it easier to update and organize my files.
I intend to pass on my collection to one heir who is knowledgeable and educated enough to appreciate the guns and the reference books. I would hate to see my collection go to an auction, so I have listed several reputable gun dealers who would sell them on consignment or return them if they did not sell promptly. But, my preference would be to list them on this forum first. It's not hard and I have already prepared the photos and short descriptions for just that purpose.
As I get older, it is on my mind more often.
Thanks for sharing Eric.
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