Although I am a fairly knowledgeable buyer, nothing can turn me off faster
than a seller who wants me to be the buyer and seller both.  My feeling has
always been that it is up to the seller to price an article.  If he doesn't
want to, then send it to auction.  Otherwise, why doesn't he do his own
homework.  There are many sources (the published price guides not being one)
for determining prices.  The primary one is probably the Musical Box Society
and AMICA publications and members. But antique dealers who specialize - and
there are many - in music boxes will appraise.  But I really am put off by
the "make me an offer" ploy.  Believe me, if I were to make him an offer, he
would scream to high heaven!!!   Bea Robertson