BBb Basses - Comparitive Values?

[Simes]

Hi all,

I've got a very nice condition B&H Imperial 3 Valve compensating Imperial BBb bass - Made in 1967 it plays well and is a nice instrument with few (comparitively) dents!

Now I've the opportunity to swap (plus some cash maybe) for a 4 Valve Imperial (1979 vintage) - visually very similar to my instrument - both are 17" bell silver plated. Has anyone any ideas on the comparitive values of the two instruments? I'm guessing my 3 valve is worth 3 to 500 quid - depending on the luck of the draw when selling it, but have no idea on the 4 valve Imp - you don't seem to see 17" bell instruments coming up on eBay these days!

Would appreciate any thoughts!

Cheers,

Simes.

[Simes]

I know it's a bit of a "how long is a bit of string" type question - but would appreciate any thoughts anyone has on this!

Cheers

[Colin.Doran]

it all depends on what state it would be in I bought a 4 valve BBb imp a few years ago off ebay for 700 quid and sold it about 2 years ago for about 450 but that was cause i needed a quick sale too many tubas in a small 2 bed house not the best of situations but it's hard to say i would say anything between 500 to 1300 depent on condition but could be very wrong about that

[Simes]

Thanks Colin.

My offer was going to be around £600. But I didn't want to rob anyone - including me! Sounds like I'm in the ball park for a scruffy, but playable bass.

Cheers.