Featured Antique Reuge Music Box value?

Hello! I need help identifying if this music box is something I should get professionally appraised/insured. I know my late nana received it from her husband a long time ago (40-75 years?). Personally, I was in love with it every time I visited as a small child (30 years ago), and now my toddler won't go to bed without it. Thus the question: should I get this appraised and insured in case my toddler breaks it, if it would cost a fortune to repair properly? I tried to find a range online and at the low end of $200-$300, I'm not too bothered if my toddler makes a big scratch. If it's in the thousands, I will probably get it insured so it can be repaired.

Reuge Sainte Croixe. French titles of 3 songs (not sure where it was purchased). 50 note music box. 1080 ABC on inside cover. "Made in Switzerland" on bottom, with crank saying "Reuge Music"; no other bottom markings or serial number I can locate. Functional on/off switch on front. All wood. Fully functional. Excellent for toddler tutu dancing and calming to sleep

 

One way to get an idea of value without paying for an appraisal, Ella, is to go to eBay and browse through Completed listings. I did that for you, using 'Reuge Sainte Croixe' as key search words, and came up with one that appears to be like yours on offer for $1,299 but sold for somewhat less. There are variables, of course, such as age, condition, and musical selections that effect value so not an apples-to apples-comparison but this sales history likely indicates yours is not worth "in the thousands" but well worth taking good care of nevertheless. (By way, yours plays Debussy's 'Claire de Lune,' Strauss' 'Blue Danube Waltz' and Ivanovici's 'Waves of the Danube.')

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2760323034...lGn7pMP9tdWnIY6JqhLSlQ0/I=|tkp:Bk9SR6aZ5cPkYg

Debora

 

Just FYI, afaik, insuring it will probably not cover repairs- usually just fire/theft etc.

 

Hello @EllaMaryland & welcome to the forum!!

The music box Debora cited above sold for $1,000.00. On eBay, over the last year, the average sold price for a 3-song box is $250.00 to $1,000.00+. The price not only depends on the 3 songs that are included but also on the box itself.

There are beautiful ones with inlaid designs, glass ones & metal ones with enamel work.

https://www.google.com/search?sca_e...kFHSanBcgQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1920&bih=931&dpr=1

As long as you handle the winding & place it where little hands can not reach it there should not be a problem with your little one using it for a bedtime lullaby.

 

I'm sure the music is wonderful, as well as the box, which looks to be in lovely condition!!! It looks like it's been well cared for!! And WELCOME to ANTIQUERS, @EllaMaryland

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