old white sewing machine determine value
 

I picked this up cheap at a garage sale. How can I go about determining a value on it. It says white rotary with 9801-3 on the bottom. Works but the rubber piece that runs the wheel is degraded and the cabinet has some damage.[ATTACH=CONFIG]478960[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]478961[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]478962[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]478963[/ATTACH]

What you paid for it is likely the "worth" or value.

I paid $5. Think it is worth more than that

Value is very subjective and depends on where you live, what the demand for machines are (hardly any in most places) and condition. Yes, you could probably get more than $5 for scrap metal. If you paid $5 for it, enjoy it and use it.

I would guesstimate the value at $25 if in need of service maybe $50 if sewing. If the idea is to resell on Craigslist you can start at $100-$200 and see what the market will bear. These White machines are good sewing machines but not particularly valuable like a Singer Featherweight or others.

Vintage and antique sewing machines are for the most part very much undervalued. Your $5 White would cost $1000's if made new today. So you have a tremendous value but it is known to only a small group of scattered people who are used to paying little for high quality sewing machines.

Good Luck
Jon

In the Twin Cites area, you'd be lucky to get $100, more likely $50.

Like Jon said, they are undervalued as most want "new/electronic" though I'm finding college kids often like them, but they'd be more willing to pay in the $25 for it, and they are willing to spend some time cleaning them up.

Does it have any other parts and pieces, or a manual? Bobbins? Any of those things adds value.

Here in northern Ca. it would go for about $25.00 as is. They ask a lot more on CL but usually sell cheap when they find out they really do not have much value unless refurbished and unless they are heavily decaled or a rare model. Thrift stores sell the cheapest with antique stores always asking the most. If you clean it up like new, refurbish it, add new electrical, belt and add sewing attachments, spruce up the cabinet you can ask 125-150. Doesn't mean you will get it though.

My experience is that the value is what the buyer is willing to pay. Good luck but awesome vintage sewing machines don't get a lot of money these days.

White machine
 

I bought one at estate sale for $25 and I love it! Husqvarna bought out White. You can call them @ 800-446-2333to find out the age. You have to give them the serial number. Mine was made the year I was born(1949) in Chicago. I especially like the knee press. When you start sewing on it just be aware the hand wheel turns away from you instead of toward you like a Singer.