Looking to value shopsmith 10 e sn. Er9403

[Cherokee0413]

I need to sell this machine and I have no clue the value! I'm not even sure if all of the parts are there. However the motor does run we just fired her up! Please help!

[jpdalton]

I need to sell this machine and I have no clue the value! I'm not even sure if all of the parts are there. However the motor does run we just fired her up! Please help!

I generally have two rules of thumb when considering the value of one of these vintage Shopsmith machines:

1. Value is most strongly influenced by general machine condition and included accessories.
2. The full machines are often worth less than the sum of their parts.

So, what do these mean in your case? Well, if your pictures show everything that’s part of the machine, you are missing a lot of important parts. I didn’t see a sanding disc, drill chuck, or extension table. And while all of these are readily available, they do cost something to replace and detract from the value of the machine. This is all consistent with the system’s relatively poor (but not unrestorable) condition as pictured.

You also don’t have any of the desirable accessories, like early table raiser, speed changer, etc., so no boost to potential value from that category. However, this does appear to have a logo medallion on both front and back of the headstock - meaning it was likely a salesman’s demo model, which might add a bit to its value for a collector.

So bottom line in my opinion, the system as-is is probably worth in the vicinity of $50. But based on #2 above, you could sell the system part by part and likely get more in return, than selling it as a whole. This will take more work and more transactions, and you’ll likely end up with a big pile of left over scrap metal, and there’ll be one fewer restorable Model 10 in the world…

Hope this helps. Good luck - I do hope you find it a good home!

[JPG]

With a Cherokee moniker, I have to ask: east or west?

[chapmanruss]

John has already covered some of your question about the value. It is a difficult question to answer as there are so many variables. Condition, completeness, extra accessories included and even location all figure into its value. Condition is a big part of the value and yours unfortunately doesn't present well in your pictures. I don't see all the parts that originally would have come with it when new. Missing parts means having to find replacements. Even being in different areas of the country can have an effect on the value.

Look at local listings for comparisons but be aware that the asking price is not always what it is sold for. Some listing may not be correct for a comparison as may sellers have no clue as to what model Shopsmith they actually have or what a Shopsmith really is. Accurate information in the ad is helpful.

Yours is a Model 10E made in the Eastern Plant most likely in the first half of 1948. I cannot tell from the pictures if it has the original Wood Extension Table or has been upgraded to the Metal Extension Table. I don't see the Extension Table or Tailstock which may be something missing.

The only unusual thing, which John pointed out, is the extra Logo/Serial Number Plate on the back side of the Headstock which was common on Demo Units only.