Hi,
I discovered this full Free Mason outfit set including: coat with metal pin, two hats with covers, sash with medals, sword which connects to a belt, and a suitcase which is labeled with a name that it all fits into. I'm wondering if someone has any idea on the value of this item. Thanks!
It would be impossible to give a fare valuation with the photos you provided. (What is that big gob of fabric in front of the model, an apron or the trousers. It might be better to photograph it on a hanger or laid flat) It's difficult even with good photos to give a value, for a million reasons.
Also, don't dry clean or wash any parts. don't lay it on a dirty porch or dusty suitcase.
For uniforms like this condition matters. It is condition, condition, condition.
You need to feel and go over every inch with a magnifying glass if you have to. The uniform is wool, I would gather, which at this age often has moth holes. (In fact, laying it out on the porch isn't a good idea.) Note any labels, makers marks (ie Pettibone) and sizes.
Is the leather supple or dry? is the fringe missing any strands, are the metal parts rust free, do the pin clasps or mechanisms work or are the metal pieces riveted in place. I see that you have a hat form, these also came with a separate carrying case.
I am not an expert on Masonic items. But as suggested, compare similar items that have sold. Many of these objects are still being made, like the chapeau (Knights Templar Sir Knight Chapeau), and rather than increase the value of an antique, in this case I would imagine it might decrease the value. The visor hat is sometimes called a Kepi or fatigue hat, The coat is usually called a Frock coat (though I think that may be a misnomer). The sword sling is called a baldric. The suitcase might have a man's name, but I don't know if it is "masonic issue" or just one that was bought at sears. While that is what it was stored in, it may not be of great importance to the masonic collector.
The sold listings is the best place to get an idea of the going rate.
A similar set, with out the sword and trousers, and in what looks like lesser condition than yours, sold for $128.50 +
$20.10 ($148.60 total) with 8 bids on Apr 01, 2018. They started the auction at $30.
While a similar set has languished for a couple months at $79.99+$11.41.
And on May 29, another reached $202.50+42.00 with 7 bids starting at $50. That one has a beautiful sword, and was well photographed. There are collectors of all kinds of swords, I would imagine that was why that auction went so high, and if you sell on eBay, you may do better listing the sword in a separate auction but listed at the same time.
There is a category for these items.
Collectibles > Historical Memorabilia > Fraternal Organizations > Masonic, Freemasonry
You wrote "I discovered this full Free Mason outfit set..." Then you said you don't own it.
I don't want to be confrontational, but we aren't mind readers and it does help to know ownership and why you want identification or appraisal ("I saw this at a garage sale -would you buy it for $75", "my friend wants me to list this on ebay for her, but I don't know if it's worth the effort", "I inherited this from my uncle, would you have it insured", "I am cleaning out a house, everything must go, would you list this on eBay or put it in the sale?"
I really don't care if you own it or not, or if you plan on flipping it for a profit or keeping it regardless and want to brag to your friends about it's worth. Okay? But knowing that information will help people here give you the best of their advise, that's all
