Expert: Terry V Andreasen (Andy) - 10/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: I would like to know the value of my safe.  The safe has "PUGLISI & GRISWOLD.", "Gary Safe Co." and "Buffalo,N.Y." on the front.  It measures 30" high, 20" wide and 20" deep. On the inside of the door is "Gary Safe Co." and "Buffalo,N.Y.".  Inside the safe it has an opening that takes up the right half and measures 16" high by 5 3/4" wide. The left half has top to bottom, a 5x6" compartment with a metal locking door. Next is a 5x3" wooden drawer with a lock and then there are two open compartments 4x5".

Thank you for your assistance in valuing this.



ANSWER: Jim,

First of you have a "CARY" safe, not a "GARY" safe.  Cary Safe company was in Buffalo NY (1878-1929),  Gary Safe was in the City of Industry (LA) late 1950's to 1980ish).

In order to rate or evaluate your safe I am going to need pictures.  Evaluation photos should consist of full exterior / interior views, and detail photos of the dial, handles, hinges & acorns, wheels or castors, locks and bolt work (you may need to open the back panel of the door to photograph), cabinetry, art work and any special details or damage.

Check the hinge covers (acorns), unscrew one and hold it in your hand - is it a heavy cast material or light weight formed sheet tin or brass?  Do you have a serial number?

Photos should be high resolution digital pics, to allow me to zoom in, to study in detail the safe you are requesting evaluation of.  Please review your photos before sending them.  If they are out of focus, or you can’t see them – then neither can I.  If the photos are larger than 2mb you may need to send them two at a time per email.

We try to be as unbiased as possible when evaluating and appraising, or offering possible restoration options to you.

Send the photos of the safe to andy@securitysafeusa.com

Informal evaluations are no charge.  If you need a formal evaluation or an appraisal for insurance, estate or resale purposes, we have an administrative fee for the extra work

Andy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I sent the photos you requested on October 1st and have not received a reply yet. Did you receive my email with the photos>

Thank you

Answer
Jim,


Jim,

You have a nice looking Cary Safe – it has a few minor problems but nothing that can’t be repaired.  I would rate its condition as “FAIR”.

Condition is based on different levels such as:
Excellent - Like new / out of the box
Good - Used but in like new condition/all parts available and work
Fair - minor damage, paint scratches, combo's and keys are available and/or doors are locked open.  Interior has minor damage.
Poor - Locked missing combo or keys, missing parts (ie locks, wheel packs) major damage, safe has been repainted over existing paint.  Interior damage, drawers missing, locks damaged, missing, etc.

Age:  manufactured around 1925-1929  (80-84 years old).

Some of the problem areas include:
1.  The exterior paint, minor damage and rust.
2.  Handle, dial, dial ring and acorns need replating
3.  Interior paint, minor damage
4.  Cabinetry and carpet.  Possibly missing a drawer, minor wood damage, carpet needs replacing.
5.  Mechanical bolt work probably needs service.

Cleaning the safe with something like “Pledge” will make it look better, and bring back some of the shine.  The wood working can be sanded and re-varnished.  Touch up the paint and remove the rust.

Value:
Burglary & Fire    $0   This safe does not meet current fire or burglary standards and should not be used for overnight storage of cash, jewelry, or valuable documents.
Resale value      $500-$750
Antique value      $0   This safe is not over 100 years old.
Collectible value   $500-$750   While the safe is a collectible, it needs some minor restoration work.  Cleaning and repairs could significantly improve its value.  If you can get info on the original owners including photos of the safe in use, it will also add to the safes collectible value.

Andy


Jim,

I have been out of the office working in the field for the past week so I haven't had a chance to check all of my emails.

I work on the All Experts requests at home at night, and don't have access to my office emails. If I haven't seen or responded to your email, I will in the next day or so.

Andy