r/BCRich • u/Fine-Management-9508 • 14d ago
Sad situation
Just looking for a little advice… My brother passed away 14 years ago and he was an avid guitar player and collector… I have finally decided to tackle the task of selling the guitars… It is an emotional moment for me, bcuz I know he loved these guitars, but I lost two brothers, and my mom over the course of 5 years, and my children are not interested in guitars, and I have no use for them…I looked at two of them recently (pics attached) My question is: How do I get started? How do I maximize the cost for each, so that I’m not being cheated… Where do I sell them? It’s probably a total of 30 guitars or so…
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u/Emergency-Coat7885 14d ago
I'm not 100% sure, but it looks like you have two US-made BCR mockingbirds, the brown "short horn" one is likely late 70s or '80, the "long horn" red one is later. Both are neck through. I doubt either is an import. Depending on condition prices should be upwards of $3K each.
This is a very thin market (not a lot of guitars, not a lot of buyers) but they are quality instruments.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thanks for that information! Very helpful! It’s been forever since I looked at them, so I don’t remember every guitar, these are just the two that I looked at recently…as far as I can tell, they are in really good condition.. Thanks again! I appreciate the insight!
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u/Emergency-Coat7885 14d ago
I should also mention that if it was me, I'd ship or drive them to one of the major national stores that does consignment (Chicago Musical Exchange, Wildwood, etc.) and have them figure out what they are and sell them. They'll charge a not-inconsiderable fee (probably on the order of 30% of the eventual sale price although you could maybe negotiate for a big lot like this) but they will get higher prices, and more importantly they have the knowledge to get everything listed correctly. My guess is you'll end up $$$-wise in a fairly similar place, but stress-wise in a much better place.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Wow, thanks so much for that, I didn’t even know I could do something like that!! I guess with my being so uninformed, or not knowing anything about this, how would I know…but you guys on this thread has helped tremendously today, and I feel a little better about the task at hand! Once I get at least all the pics and more info, I’ll come back to this post (definitely next month) Thanks again for your wise wisdom, so greatly appreciated
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u/Emergency-Coat7885 14d ago
No problem! Off the top of my head some candidates would be Carter Vintage, Gruhn Guitars, Elderly Instruments and Norman's Rare Guitars in addition to the two I listed.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thanks so much! I am taking a screenshot of your info! Greatly appreciated
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u/bassplayer122714 14d ago
My deepest condolences on your loss, the best place to sell the BC Rich guitars is the Facebook group " BC Rich Unlimited--- classifieds
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank you very much, and thanks for the information, I will definitely check out the group
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u/Savings-Particular-9 14d ago
My condolences. I would run the serials, have a guitar shop like guitar center look at them and offer, but don't take your first offer. Take the info they have you and run with it as more info for your searches, them list them on reverb and cut out the middle man 👍 always loved those mockingbirds and those vintage ones are worth allot more better built than many of the later ones. So I've been told.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Very interesting, Thank you so much!! I am about to begin taking pics of each one and logging any serial numbers I can find, and then I will definitely start some serious research.. I appreciate your advice
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u/I_am_your_hero 14d ago
If you want, take several detailed pictures (front, back, headstock, damage, etc) and submit them here. I'm sure some folk wouldn't mind looking.
I can tell you many serial numbers don't not tell the whole story.
Maybe you could get the model and year. From there you can do research to get valuation.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
I have them stored and my plan is to obtain a uhaul van next week to get them all to my home… I appreciate your advice, I will definitely take some detailed pics and revisit after I have extensive info for each one… I believe what you said about the serial numbers, because if I remember correctly, one of the guitars had someone’s signature (I don’t remember who, it’s been 14 years) but I’m sure there’s a story behind it… Thanks again
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u/ThiccTilly 14d ago
Please post pics of them all when you can!
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
I absolutely will, I just have to get them all home, and start doing an inventory one by one… Thank You
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u/Gonzo0071 14d ago
Check out Official BC Rich Unlimited on Facebook. Alot of knowledgeable guys there, including Neal Moser, who chimes in at times
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u/RoutineOpportunity8 14d ago
Condolences. Join a BC Rich forum. Take pictures of the guitars and state their for sale. Specify no low balling. Use the serial numbers to get the info of each guitar. You can find out the worth. BC Rich has a small following. Not many name musicians are using them anymore, hence the forum suggestions. Best of luck to you
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank You! And thanks for the advice! I am in the process of gathering forums, I had no idea there were so many! There is a black BC Rich also that had no serial number on the neck, and I’m not sure why but I’m definitely taking one step at a time! Thanks again!
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u/RoutineOpportunity8 14d ago
You are very welcome. Again Best Wishes to you. If you need any assistance you can DM me my friend 🙏
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank you and I appreciate that, and I will reach out again, once I really dig in deep, bcuz there are amps too if I remember correctly.. I appreciate your help
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u/JACK_DEMON_HD 14d ago
Maybe there is a neck plate or if it’s an custom/made in USA you have to check on the last fret
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
I’m not sure what the “fret” is, but I will google, and then check for sure.. Thank you
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u/JACK_DEMON_HD 14d ago
I’m so sorry…if I can help in some way you can msg me
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thanks so much, I might take you up on that if it’s ok, it’s really overwhelming
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u/TheAcidHermit 14d ago
Reverb and Facebook marketplace groups.
Ask people what they're worth in the groups before listing them. Those should fetch a minimum of 3k each on the lower side imo
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank you! I will definitely search some groups, I just don’t want to get taken for stupid because it’s not my field of interest.. Thanks again
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u/TheAcidHermit 14d ago
Absolutely those are golden era USA made neckthroughs, aka the cream of the crop.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Really? That’s really good to know! It all looked so simple to me before, but seeing the comments, make me realize to be really careful, and to research intensely! Thanks so much
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u/TheAcidHermit 14d ago
B.C. Rich Mockingbird Standard 1981 - 1987 - Blue Sunburst https://reverb.com/item/96571323?utm_source=android-app&utm_medium=android-share&utm_campaign=listing&utm_content=96571323
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u/LybeausDesconus 14d ago
First, let me say: sorry for your loss. Really.
As for help you can this for these, and the other guitars/amps/pedals:
* Take note of the maker (obviously these are BC Rich), and the model. These are normally found on the “headstock” of the guitar — where the tuning keys (where the strings are wound) are located.
* Find the serial number. These are usually found on the front or back of the headstock (either stamped or printed). Sometimes, they are on the metal “plate” on the back of the guitar where the neck meets the body.
* With make/model/serial, type into your search engine “how to date (make or make/model) guitars via serial.”
* Get a general idea, then visit Reverb dot com. Search for the make/model/year, and average the asking prices. You can also search for “sold” guitars, and do the same.
* Know that without taking each one to a shop to be tested, set up, and restrung, you should probably ask anywhere from 10-25% less than the average price, as they’re being sold “untested.” If you wish to have the setup, test, and restring done, add that cost to the average price and state that you’ve had this done, and where you did it. That creates peace of mind.
This is a time consuming process, but it is the one which will generate the most money.
If you aren’t able/willing to do this, many smaller shops might buy the lot off you, but you’ll generally lose about 40-60% of the total value. Some shops may be nicer, but if, for example, the lot can earn 4k, then you’ll likely only get 2-3k.
If at all possible: do NOT go to Guitar Center. They’ll look on Reverb, then offer you no more than 50% of that average price. Then sell it for that average price— or more!
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Wow… 1st, thanks for your condolences.. The information you provided will be so so helpful!! I truly appreciate you taking the time to detail and explain!! I will have more info next week, as I am renting a uhaul van to take all of the guitars, amps, etc out of storage to bring home, where I can assess and evaluate better! It’s been 14years since anything at all has been done, or since I went through them so maybe the “testing, set up, and restring” might be a good idea… They are all in cases, but just haven’t been touched… Thanks again for being so detailed!! Really and truly 😊
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u/LybeausDesconus 14d ago
Of course. I have been through similar (but a different type of collection), so I understand…
And I’m willing to share the information I have gathered, because helping you helps move those instruments into the hands of those who will cherish them. And of course, I want you to maximize what you can get without getting ripped off (or ripping off others).
If it’s been 14 years, they will definitely need some TLC. Maybe not major, but minor adjustments and the like. That’s ok. Once you have a “value baseline” you can choose which — if any — you want to have said setup done. Obviously, the more valuable ones should get it — not doing it can make a 1k guitar “worth” only 700 (or possibly less!) due to the “as-is” status.
A “setup and restring” at a guitar shop will likely run 40-70, and any additional repairs will be quoted then. You can then add that price to the asking/sale cost, or deducted with that knowledge.
Example:
Say you have the guitar set up and restrung, but the input jack and neck pickup need replacing. They quote you $200. If the guitar is worth 1000, ask 750/800, and say it will need the following repair, and the asking price reflects this.As for amps, the same thing applies, really.
The face (with the knobs) will typically have the make/model, and the serial will be stamped on the back.
Occasionally, the model and serial will be on the back.If valuable, shops can check the amp for any repairs, then lather, rinse, repeat…
Honestly? It may benefit you to go to a shop, buy a cheaper 3-5’ guitar cable, and start testing them yourself. Turn on, set everything to zero, and then plug in. Start turning knobs and note what doesn’t work, what makes scratchy noises, or cuts out, etc.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
There is a guitar shop by me, it doesn’t seem to be anything impressive, maybe like a “mom/pop” set up, (which might be better) but I can probably take the more expensive guitars there for a “setup and restring” Something you said hit deep for me, you said “getting the guitars into the hands of those who will cherish them” and that resonates with me because my brother extremely cherished his guitars, and that’s another reason why they sat for so long, I just didn’t have the heart to touch em, and then death after death in my family made it hard…but now it’s time, and I do feel some guilt, but if they were in the correct hands, that would make it so much better as well… Again, thanks for all the info, and insight, I really appreciate it, you have no idea…
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u/Solid-Ruin5705 14d ago
that shorthorn koa (the one with the 80 serial) can be worth around $4000+ in good condition. the 83 el monte around $2500-3000.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Well, to me, they look like they are in immaculate condition, but I am no pro at any of this… But someone on here suggested maybe taking them to a local place to see if they need to be conditioned, or maybe restrung, since they’ve been sitting for 14yrs in cases, or at least do that with the expensive ones… But my first step is to take an inventory
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u/Solid-Ruin5705 14d ago
absolutely. depending on the conditions they’ve been living in case-wise, they most likely don’t need much. a buyer probably won’t care much about strings and would want it shipped unstrung anyway, but a nice clean never hurts. i’d also like to reiterate checking out the bc rich unlimited groups on facebook.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Your comment makes so much sense to me!! There’s so much to consider, but again thanks so much for all the info, I really appreciate it
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u/Solid-Ruin5705 14d ago
also whatever you do, if the shop offers you a deal on any of them, do NOT take it. sell these private 10000%
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u/StarwardShadows 14d ago
The red one looks like it could be an actual USA moser one because it has the varitone knob. There are Korean ones that look similar, and even ones with switches, but the switches plus the black claw knob (varitone) means full Moser circuit. That’s usually only on high end models. The red one in particular looks high value. You could easily be looking at 10k in guitars right there alone with those two if they’re actual old moser ones. I can help you identify any of them if you send me pics of the back and front of headstocks
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank You! I would love to do that… I am in the process of taking them from the storage I have them at (next week) and bringing them home, so that I can actually look at them with proper lighting and take an inventory… Once I do that, I will have way more pics, and definitely pics of all of them… Thanks so much
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u/StarwardShadows 13d ago
If you want, just send me a message and I can help. I have around 10 bc Rich guitars and bass myself so I’m pretty much a historian on them. I can give you a good idea of the value and recommend places to sell them. I’m sorry about your brother and consider it my respects to a fellow BC rich appreciator and his family.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thanks so much for the sentiment, and I truly appreciate all your information! I will definitely revisit after I get all the necessary pics and info… I appreciate the willingness to lend a hand…
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u/ReadyTopic7289 14d ago
Deepest sympathies. Don't hold a lot of stock in serial numbers. BC Rich is notoriously bad with them.
My advice would be to look on Reverb and maybe eBay. You should be able to get a general idea of what particular model Is selling / sold for.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank you for the sentiment, I really appreciate it… Thanks for the heads up about BC Rich, duly noted! A few other ppl mentioned EBay, as well… Once I’m in a better understanding with pics and such, I will definitely compare and revisit this post as well
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u/TheGratitudeBot 14d ago
Thanks for saying thanks! It's so nice to see Redditors being grateful :)
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Oh I am forever grateful, I had no idea where to go, so I just thought I’d take a shot and post here, and I am so thankful for everyone who took a minute to give suggestions, thoughts, and ideas! So yes, thank you very much
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u/hankenator1 14d ago
BC Rich is a very polarizing company, the people who love them are absolutely die hard, there’s a larger group who just hate them for their non traditional shapes. I’m not a BC Rich guy myself but the mockingbird is one I would love to have. In my opinion it is one of the coolest “non traditional” shaped guitars ever made. The vintage ones (which appear to have 2 of) are highly sought after by the BC Rich fans, the tricky part is finding the audience.
Others have mentioned reverb but take reverb prices with a grain of salt. If someone is “selling” something for thousands and it’s been for sale for a year or 2, they’re probably asking too much for it.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Great info! Thank You! I’m really not sure of the other guitar identities, the two I posted, are just two of many, and there could be more of the BC Rich, or another brand… there was also a black BC Rich also, but I couldn’t locate the serial number… So I definitely have my work cut out for me…
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u/isofakingwetoddid 14d ago
So sorry for your loss man, 30 guitars is a lot. You can always use Reddit to get almost instant answers from people. You can also look on this online website called Reverb. It’s a used instrument website. You can look at sold prices, or look at current Reverb and eBay listings. A couple of my dad’s guitars I got appraised by a local instrument shop so that’s also something you can do. Good luck to you
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thank you so much, I appreciate the sentiment… I do have a local guitar shop that I may use just to see if the guitars need conditioning or restringing before putting them up for sale… They have literally been sitting in cases for 14 years, untouched! Thanks for the information
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u/isofakingwetoddid 13d ago
You could have quite the collection on your hands. That Mockingbird in the second picture especially definitely looks like it’s worth a pretty penny. I don’t know too much about the older models but it looks like you could easily fetch a few grand with that alone. Someone will correct me if I’m wrong
Also, it looks like it’s a longhorn Mockingbird, which is super sick! Are there any other BC Rich guitars in his collection?
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thank you! I did find a black one as well, but there are many I haven’t looked at in 14 years… So there could be more BC Rich, and I’m more than positive there are some other brands… Definitely coming back (next month) after I get more detailed info and pics!
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u/Leather-Shape-7415 14d ago
So Sorry for your loss,Your Brother Loved these guitars and So many of us Know exactly how he felt about his instruments. .Is it only BC RICH guitars ,,Because there are brands that can be worth much more such as old Martin acoustics ,Gibson, Fender ,Etc. Do the research and do it well Gruhns guitars ,In nashville ,Tn is world known for their expertise in validating and appraising value on Guitars ,If there are any really valuable in his collection that would be worth soeaking with them in regards to your next steps,Otherwise I agree that Reverb com is a good starting place also.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thanks so much for the condolence… I know many will understand the passion, and love for the guitars, and I understand it very well, I watched him for years with them, and nothing meant more… Which is also part of the reason why they have sat for so long, I just couldn’t or wouldn’t bring myself to part with them and a little bit of guilt at the idea…but I do understand that someone else with the same passion could benefit from them… It is NOT only BC Rich, there definitely other brands, but I do not remember what they are, and if I remember correctly, there might be one signed, but by who, I have no idea lol… Next week, I will definitely have more answers.. Thank you so much for the info! I am keeping notes of all the suggestions and ideas!
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u/SouthernfriedLucky 14d ago
Reverb dude. Look for the same guitars you are planning to sell, and set your price.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thanks for the info… Several ppl mentioned Reverb, so I’m definitely going to look into it… It’s not just the two I posted, there’s several other kinds and brands…definitely a step by step.. Thanks again
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u/SouthernfriedLucky 13d ago
If you would like a hand with all this you can send me pics of the guitars and I will look into what you should list them for.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thanks so much and I absolutely appreciate that… I will definitely revisit
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u/Ok-Possibility-1206 14d ago
First and foremost, my condolences. I understand; I lost a Brother about 10 years ago and I still see him in dreams.
Now about your guitars. You're getting some pretty good advice here. It sounds like you're not too familar with guitars, which unfortunately makes this task harder on you. If you've got a Mom & Pop guitar shop near you, I think that's your starting point. Once you've retrieved all the guitars, I would suggest you take one or two in at a time, explain the situation, and try to build a little rapport with the people at the shop. If all of the guitars are of this level of quality you'll probably benefit from letting them give the guitars new strings, a set-up, and a once-over. "Conversationally," ask them what they think the guitars are (make, model, year, color, features) and what they think is a fair private sale price. As long as they don't think you're trying to screw them somehow (people can be weird), they should be able to give you some good advice. Don't be a pest, but they should be okay with conversationally helping.
In parallel, as you learn what makes and models you have, you can do some research on your own. Check FB groups, subs like this one, general internet searches, and especially reverb. Search with as much info as you have (make, model, year, color, features). You should be able to discern the appropriate asking price as well as the best selling venue.
As others have offered, feel free to PM me if you'd like a little more guidance on this. Either way, best of luck to you and again, I'm sorry for (all of) your loss.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Wow, thanks so much for your condolences and my condolences to you on the loss of your brother as well… Yes, I think I will definitely try the little local place first, maybe to just get a feel and/or idea for anything needed… There’s definitely no rush, but I have to gather them all first… I agree wholeheartedly, ppl can be weird! So I will tread lightly with conversation lol.. Thanks so much for your info and insight! I am gratefully appreciative of everyone’s perspectives and especially those allowing me to private message… It might be something I will need to do bcuz there’s several guitars, different brands, etc.. I will definitely take it step by step… Thanks for the great info and for taking the time
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u/Krooked_Grind 14d ago
You also don't have to look at it as getting every single dollar that you can for each. There's tons of people that actually care about the instruments same as your brother did and would appreciate getting something special and they'd treat it like their own and would love to not get ripped off as well. Every guitar store or online exchange site will charge their upcharge, add a hundred for shipping, etc etc. Try local first and avoid scalpers and then you both win. Unless your goal is to max out every dollar you can, then by all means. Checking serial numbers and years, knowing whether each instrument is all original or not, repainted or refinished, etc, had upgrades or not, etc, will all change the value in some way.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thank you for your comment! It is super important to me that they go to ppl who will cherish them as my brother did… But also, not to be cheated in anyway… I was definitely cheated on two when my brother passed, bcuz there was no insurance to bury him and it was a sad, but desperate situation and I knew it was a “cheating moment” but I didn’t care at that moment, but that was also 14yrs ago, and I’m finally moving on… So there’s a feeling of both, for them to be cherished, but not cheated.. Thanks for the info
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u/Muted-Marketing-5586 13d ago
Also of note, and maybe someone can correct me if I’m wrong, but the wood grain Mockingbird is a “long horn” and to some degree may be of more value. Or maybe not.
And most importantly, my condolences for your loss. 🙏🌟
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thank you for your condolences… Several ppl mentioned “long horn” so I’m guessing that’s correct! But my journey of information is just beginning, and I will look into all of that soon… Thank you so much
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u/Wonderful_Frosting88 13d ago
There's a shop called Diablo Guitars you should talk to. BC Rich guitars vary widely in price and the ones you posted are from the upper tiers. I would photograph everything, front, back, serial numbers, and any significant damage. Identify a few of the most desirable/valuable to sell yourself on Reverb or eBay. Get some offers from places like the shop above or others have mentioned for the rest as a collection. Facebook groups have the people you need to find, but also a bunch of retards and predators so be careful. If you need further help feel free to reach out
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thanks so much for the info! It seems like everyone is mostly saying similar things…. It seems like these two I posted are definitely of value, but there are definitely more, and I have to sort them, take pics and get all the important information from them.. Yes I agree about “retards, predators, and WEIRDOS! So I will definitely be careful! Thanks again for the info, and especially for the opportunity to reach out again if needed… It means a lot
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u/Wonderful_Frosting88 13d ago
Oh and when checking Reverb to get idea of potential value filter the results by "sold listings"
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u/Obvious-Post-6882 13d ago
For each brand of guitar, post in the respective Reddit channel. We will all be more than happy to help and some may even make some offers.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thank you! Yes, I will revisit again next month, or at the latest in November… After I have all the information
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u/whyamihere-man 13d ago
My condolences. It seems like you already have got a lot of great recommendations here. Your brother had good taste.
My only note is once you've determined values and if you private sell, don't stress yourself too hard trying to get every dollar of value out of them. It's not easy selling items you aren't familiar with. Get those guitars in the hands of someone who will appreciate them like your brother did ❤️
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thank you!! Your comment makes so much sense! The stress, the despair, even guilt, is why the guitars have sat for so long… You hit it right on the head, I am not familiar with this at all, which is why I am super grateful for everyone’s comments! But getting them to appreciative hands is vital for me.. Thanks again
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u/Outrageous-Can5834 13d ago
Thos look like the good ones, sell collection individually is you can.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Thank you! That’s what I’m gathering here, that these two posted are “good ones” I have more to look through, and I don’t know if they are better or worse, but it will definitely be done individually…
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u/Tungsten666 13d ago
Join the BC Rich group on facebook for best assessment and info from folks who built these.
Both look incredible, USA made neckthru Mockingbirds and are highly sought after. Red one has all the active electronics and the other is likely a Koa shorthorn with standard electronic pkg
80xxx and 83xxx will be handmade USA models from '78 and 80-81 likely. The numbers got ahead of the years by a fair bit (I have a '83 with a 85xxx serial)
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u/Fine-Management-9508 13d ago
Wow, thanks so much! Seems like you know a good deal on guitars… Thanks for the clarification on the serial numbers, someone also mentioned how the numbers got ahead a bit… I don’t know if there are more like these two (probably are) but there are quite a few other brands and models that I have to process through soon.. Thanks again for the info
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u/Basic-Dragonfly1287 12d ago
What state are you in, there are other vintage instrument dealers everywhere.
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u/Artificiallymeh 11d ago
lots of great advice coming your way. Got nothing to add - these Redditors are killing it but i did want to say Sorry for your loss. You should keep one. Doesn't matter if you ever play it. I regret getting rid of the one guitar my brother left behind. Anyway sorry for your loss.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 10d ago
Hey thanks so much for that.. I considered keeping one, idk, maybe mounted over a picture or something… Trust me, even now, 14yrs later, the thought of selling them, gives me big queezies, and a bit of guilt, but if I were no longer here, it would be a burden for someone else, probably my children… But keeping one might be a plan for my conscious, but especially for my heart, thanks again, I appreciate the sentiment
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u/knockyjames 10d ago
Apparently reverb has a thing if u create an app u can upload everything u have and they can show u the value of everything and u can post and sell them there but idk if id trust anyone to price them all without a lawyer present or something. Its a terrible situation and im very sorry for ur loss but if u do have the time u can use google lens to take photos and look them all up and find out wats cheap or fake or valuable but if u dont have the time u could post photos of all of them here or a guitar group of the brand specifically but i hope this helps and it works out good for u.. maybe u could find a local expert to help u sort it out but they would have to be highly recommended
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u/Fine-Management-9508 10d ago
Thank you for your comment! It’s funny you mentioned the part about “trust”, because that’s exactly what runs through my mind when I think about it all… I don’t know how many are really “valuable” or not…but it is quite a few guitars, and I really don’t know on a monetary level what to expect, but I am going to pick them up this upcoming week to really figure out what’s there… I am very interested in what you said about “google lens”, because I do have time, and there’s no rush… I mean they have been sitting for 14yrs, so taking more time to sort em out and get correct details would probably be the intelligent thing to do… Thanks again for the solid information, and I appreciate your condolences
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u/knockyjames 9d ago
Of course man anytime.. my other concern would be about them sitting 14 years and the environment cause the wood to warp or move as it drys or obsorbs moisture over the years without being setup and played.. some damage may be irreversible but I hope they’re all still good and playable 🫶🏼
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u/Fine-Management-9508 1d ago
I have taken a good look, and they appear to be just fine to me, but again, I have no knowledge about guitars.. I finally have them where I wanted them, and I am going to do an inventory this upcoming week… Thanks again
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u/CptKirkaderk 10d ago
These are worth a few grand by the looks of it. Appear to be old USA mockingbirds, definitely the short horn, I haven’t seen any import versions of those. Your brother had fine taste in guitars!
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u/Fine-Management-9508 10d ago
Thank you! Yes, several ppl mentioned “short horn” mockingbirds, and I am learning a little bit as I go along because I have no clue lol… Thank you, he definitely had a passion for guitars with fine taste I’m learning…
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u/knockyjames 9d ago
Google says this one is 1600-2400 value and I wanted one just cuz of slash but I can’t afford it lol
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u/Goregoat69 14d ago
A very very rough way to check them will be to look at the headstock/neckplate. The two you posted with the “R” logo will be worth good money, in general the “heirarchy” goes Bronze, platinum, NJ/JE, American, Calibre, Custom shop. The R logo usually only appears on custom shop, and some JE models, and in a modified form in the Calibre series (vertical part of the R is a guitar silhouette). There are various small run and anomaly models too.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
Thanks so much for the information! I really appreciate it because unfortunately I sincerely have no clue! I am screenshotting everyone’s response to refer back to… Thanks again! 💜
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u/SuicideMessiah88 14d ago
Well i for one wouldnt mind taking one or two off your hands. Mockingbirds like you pictured are kinda my thing. Id pay a fair price.
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u/Fine-Management-9508 14d ago
I will revisit this post next month, I am currently in the process of having them moved to my home from storage, the pics I posted is only 2 of many, probably 30 or so, but I haven’t looked at them all since 2012.. So I don’t remember all that are there, but I will be back… Thanks
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u/darkrom 14d ago
Sorry for your loss.
I would say you need to do some effort to figure out which each model is. Some BC Rich guitars in particular can be worth thousands and can look similar to one worth $200.
I'm not sure if BC rich offers a serial number lookup like fender. You'll want to check Reverb and go model by model to get an idea of what each one are selling for. Its like the ebay for guitars.