***Special alert to all new collectors!***
The very first HL I purchased was Southeast Light on Block Island during the summer of '94. I new nothing about HL's at the time but I'm a regular at the Block each summer so I thought it would be nice to have a replica of the SE Light.
When I brought the piece home, I removed it from the box and proudly displayed my treasure on the mantle. I took a second look at the box and noticed the picture was of Portland Head Light and not the SE Light. The first thing I thought, "generic box" , so I tossed it. What a mistake! I didn't know it then, but I do now, keep the original box!
There are several thoughts on HL's with the original box versus without the box. My experiences have taught me the HL is worth more with the original box. How much more? Depends if the potential buyer is a traditionalist who won't purchase a collectible without the original box, or a collector who just wants to add a particular piece to his or her collection.
My advice is keep those original boxes!!!
Bob
