I might be wrong but ...
 

That would depend on one's perspective.
Tools, with time passing, also become anachronic. We don't collect (old) weapons because of what they are, but because of what they used to be.
To each one his own taste. Collecting coins, for some, is a tasteless hobby; like collecting weapons for others, who find it senseless.
In the end, both are collectible symbols and both have value, even monetary ... for those who fancy them :shrug:.

Hello David,

In most cases it's the question in which condition you find a weapon. When found in good condition is a cleaning and oiling enough.
By a good restoration you can see the age of a weapon and it's always important by a possible sale to mention restorations.

Regards,
Detlef

Thank you Drac2k! :)

This restoration job has featured on the Forum before but a re airing would fit here quite well http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/showthread.php?t=24394
One certainly would not leave this item as it was originally found...........As has been stated above, the extent to which one goes with restoring is entirely up to the individual.
Stu

Like so:

(right grip before and after)

.