Classic and Vintage Bicycles: What's it Worth? Appraisals and Inquiries - Value of 1964 Schwinn Varsity? Most valuable Schwinn Varsity year?

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centurionfilly
04-09-12, 05:46 PM
I am looking at a 1964 Schwinn Varsity for $75.00. Is it worth it?

Of course I know Schwinn Varsity's are a dime a dozen, especially from the 70's.

I have never seen a 60's model posted in clist.

Are there any Varsity models worth a fair amount of money? If so, why?

Thanks

FastJake
04-09-12, 05:50 PM
If it's actually from 1964 (most sellers get the year wrong, way wrong) then I'd pick it up for $75 if in good condition. You might not make much or any money on it but the 60s Varsities are indeed rare compared to the 70s ones.

I'd be surprised if it were worth more than $150 even in excellent condition.
wrk101
04-09-12, 06:08 PM
Define a "fair amount of money". Given they are super heavy, bottom of the barrel components, steel rims, etc.; they bring a surprising amount of money IMHO. People like them, in part as a nostalgia play, and in part, as they are very, very durable. The old EF Schwinns had a unique look, lots of chrome, nice decal work. I like them.

The only bike I have had a bidding war on was a Schwinn Varsity. Fortunately, I had TWO at the time (and only one posted for sale), so I was able to satisfy both buyers.

+1 to FJ's estimate on value. Now if you are in a red hot market, adjust it up from that. Of course, in a red hot market, it would be gone already (if it is being advertised publicly (C/L or whatever).

I do like the earlier Varsities better. Value depends on condition, without good pics, its just a guess.

FORDSVTPARTS
04-09-12, 08:09 PM
The older the better when it comes to Varsities, a '64 will have Huret downtube braze on shifters and it will be lighter than a later 60s or 70s Varsity.

I believe color has the most to do with value on these bikes. I had a '64 Terra Cotta Varsity that I picked up from Goodwill and rehabbed and sold last year and although it was a very rare color mine had really rough paint which killed any real collector value.

My '64,

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y171/FORDSVTPARTS/Bikes/DSC05411.jpg
oldroads
04-10-12, 03:22 AM
Color matters a lot if it's going to be put in service as a commuter.