Re: Vintage Sea King 5 Worth
"Whatever he is willing to pay" is the true answer. But after spending many years going to antique boat shows, I think I can provide some insight. The caveat is fresh water and the northeast, since that's where I am. Your mileage elsewhere may be different.
First of all, beautiful rig. If you restored it you did a fantastic job.
If the boat is original, including paint and all parts, I would place it at $4000-$5000. If it were a Chris Craft or a Lyman or Thompson it would be worth double that. Truth is that Monky Wards have little following, so the price reflects that.
If it is a restoration, but has all of the original parts (in other words, you didn't refabricate the seats or something), then $2000-$3000 is probably a fair price.
If there are no "collectors" in your neighborhood, and the potential buyer just wants it to use for fishing, you might only get $1500.
Truth is that the classic boat market has dropped off in recent years. Just not much demand. My friend has a mint condition 1952 12' PenYan that he's owned since new. Even with heavy advertising with pics, he hasn't even received one call on it.
Take it to a couple of shows and rack up a couple of 1st place trophys. That will make it command a bigger price.
