Disposal dilemma

Like many of advancing age I am having to downsize my 'clutter'. I'm torn by disposing of items I'm probably too attached to. Happy memories of collecting hard sought, often ephemeral, items - whether the thrill of the chase or serendipitous find. I know much of it is relatively low market value however, in the right hands, may bring similar delight and education I have had from having it in my care. I can't afford to give it away (I know I'll never recoup the cost in time, travel, research, etc.) and am not talking about museum donations however would like to do right by the stuff. I trust this makes sense.

How have others embarked on the process? Stories, anecdotes, advice, scares, all welcome

Personally, I'm not linked to any dealer network, I've just been a casual hoarder. Uniform, kit, insignia, ephemera, books, etc. I've had thoughts of having a stall at a fair/event (which/where?), am not a big fan of EBay and am wary of internet Forums - I get irritated by thinly disguised selling and, worse, "How much do you want for it?" pushy dealers on discussion forums - however am aware there are specific selling places. My stuff drifts across a number of 2WW subjects, and am UK based.

 

I would be interested in speaking to you about certain regiments/groups to see if you have anything related to them?
As a buyer, I would highly recommend eBay as it is safe to sell/buy and there aren't any scammers out there related to WW2 items, at least not in my experience.

Thanks,
Tom

 

It's a problem, isn't it ? I'm still cluttering but I know that I shouldn't be. The dopamine buzz of acquiring, quickly followed by wondering where to put it. I have from time to time decided to move motorcycle parts on, but have not enjoyed having a stall. It's not just the early start, but filling a car or van, paying the organisers, possibly covering costs but then having to bring so much home again. I don't know how it is with militaria, but with bike parts, I'd say selling 20% would be a good result on any given day. Punters who pick something up. "How much ?"... "Give us two quid"..."I'll have a think and come back later".

I still buy quite a lot on eBay. It feels safe for both seller and punter. FB marketplace is a nightmare.

Internet groups can be useful, but I prefer to let stuff go to known regular posters.

 

I've only bought from eBay, but need to begin the process of thinning out my medal collection, loosing the items that don't fit with my collection themes now. So, I understand your concerns. Because none of the items in question are of any great value, eBay is probably the best place for me to start and would reach the wider audience required to get some sort of decent prices.

 

I would recommend ebay too. I buy off there regularly and when my dad passed away, I must have sold dozens and dozens of his items on there. It was either sell them or skip them.....I sold every last item