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Posted By: Sander Texaco Star - Wed Sep 14 2016 11:23 AM
I have a metal Texaco star that is still in the original paper cardboard wrap as it was sent from Texaco to the station owner. The postage is June 3 1947. I have not opened the package. My family and I are discussing rather to open it or not, carefully of course if we do . It is addressed to my grandfather so anything personal like a letter we would want to keep. So my question is this: is keeping it in original wrapper unopened adding a lot to the value of this item?
Thanks
Sander
Posted By: essco Re: Texaco Star - Wed Sep 14 2016 02:06 PM
Definitely keep all original packaging. Other than a conversation piece, it's no fun having or display an unopened package. Most collectors want to see the piece before making a purchase, Imo,not seeing hurts value.
Posted By: K W FRITH Re: Texaco Star - Wed Sep 14 2016 02:25 PM
Should not hurt the value to open it. Just be sure to keep the original packaging and any attached correspondence.
Posted By: Tankar Re: Texaco Star - Wed Sep 14 2016 05:01 PM
Open it. Yes keep all wrapping or crating. Signs and cans that have not been opened or oil in can it's not like a bottle of wine that gets better with age. Open and enjoy it.
Posted By: carolinaskies Re: Texaco Star - Wed Sep 14 2016 07:04 PM
I fall in to the category of saying DO NOT OPEN.

The question is whether someone is willing to pay more for unopened vs opened. I say YES mainly because once it is opened it risks damage and marring to the finish. Since you are asking value I'm assuming you plan to sell this. I would believe that at a serious auction a Texaco aficionado would pay more for yours than one which has been displayed.

Remember, it's only original packaged once and unless no one wants to pay for that packaging it's better to leave as is and sell as is.

BTW, for anyone who think packaging in signs doesn't matter I point them to the highest price ever paid for a Coca Cola Policeman... sealed in box.
Posted By: KZ1000 Re: Texaco Star - Wed Sep 14 2016 11:28 PM
Originally Posted By carolinaskies
I fall in to the category of saying DO NOT OPEN.

The question is whether someone is willing to pay more for unopened vs opened. I say YES mainly because once it is opened it risks damage and marring to the finish. Since you are asking value I'm assuming you plan to sell this. I would believe that at a serious auction a Texaco aficionado would pay more for yours than one which has been displayed.

Remember, it's only original packaged once and unless no one wants to pay for that packaging it's better to leave as is and sell as is.

BTW, for anyone who think packaging in signs doesn't matter I point them to the highest price ever paid for a Coca Cola Policeman... sealed in box.


I disagree, there could be a very good chance the item could be damaged from the factory or bad storage, a razor slit in the packing tape is not going to de-value this particular item, I think being able to see what your getting will bring the premium.
Posted By: Gasman84470 Re: Texaco Star - Thu Sep 15 2016 12:36 AM
FWIW I want to know what I am buying. Packaging can be deceiving and as suggested a razor slit cut won't harm anything. I have a few NOS in the box or envelope and display the items outside of their containers.
Posted By: Sander Re: Texaco Star - Thu Sep 15 2016 12:42 AM
thank you for all the input. My first forum question so may I ask what the value of this item may be?
Posted By: K W FRITH Re: Texaco Star - Thu Sep 15 2016 12:39 PM
Originally Posted By Sander
thank you for all the input. My first forum question so may I ask what the value of this item may be?


I doubt anyone will even venture a guess without a picture. How can you value something you can't see?
Posted By: 63shelby Re: Texaco Star - Thu Sep 15 2016 02:50 PM
I'll venture....kind of, A mint Texaco porcelain star will bring 300-400 all day long, the original box is cool and will add value but the biggest chunk of value is in the star itself. Like Kevin and others have said how can you value something that you can't see and have no idea of condition ?? Box could have been dropped, star could be bent and chipped up ? Open it up carefully and inspect what's inside, take some photos and share with us.
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