When evaluating an instrument like this specifics can have a considerable influence on value. It sounds like you have the earlier 52-53 model since yours has the trapeze tailpiece rather than the stud tailpiece introduced in late 1953.
As a general ballpark figure, we're probably talking around $25,000. Too bad yours doesn't have the stud tailpiece which is valued from $35,000 to $70,000.
I'd say the extent to which you want to refine this value estimate depends on the reason you want an appraisal. If you want to know value for insurance purposes, you can probably just send pictures of your instrument to Gruhn's Guitars in Nashville and they can give an "expert" appraisal estimate.
If you want to sell this guitar, you should certainly consider working with a high end guitar dealer who will want to do an in-hand inspection before setting a value. Since it appears you are in Arizona, I'd start by contacting West Coast Dealers so you can potentially drive the guitar to their shop.
I'd start with Norman's Rare Guitars, I think they have a good reputation in the trade.
You may also want to work your way through the list of Dealers I have on the links page:
If you are looking to sell, let me know and I'll put more effort into finding you some West Coast Dealers to contact. sbStatistics: Posted by VintAxe — Tue Nov 25, 2008 12:22 pm
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