Paul, obviously you're going to get replies ranging from "rip him off for as low as possible", to "take a price guide and give him full book value". I haven't had the opportunity to buy from a yard sale in a number of years, but when I did, I simply asked, "How much do you want for them?". If they don't offer a number, but shoot back, something like "How much will you give?", then you are in a bind. Do you low ball and risk the chance of ticking him off. Or do you offer as much as you can? I would always say something like, "Well, I'm a collector so I may not be able to offer as much as they are worth, but I would give you $x." Start the negotiation at a figure that isn't rock bottom, but not upper atmosphere and see what happens. I'm thinking no more than 10-20% of book. I doubt he could get much more from a dealer unless he has something really great. Dealers want to move merchandise and really aren't buying much in this economy unless it's special. Good luck, and let us know how it goes.
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