I'm not a gear hoarder. If I were, I would still have a B3
.
I don't keep everything, but I do keep stuff I like because I can. I'm lucky enough not to have to sell something to buy something else. If I do happen to die before my wife, it matters not a whit (financially) whether she gets a good price for my stuff or GIVES it away. In fact, I've made arrangements to donate it to a suitable charity when I go, anyway. I also don't "have stuff all over the house". All of my toys are on the 'terrace level' (aka basement). I think the rest of my house is rather tastefully decorated (I can send you pictures of the interior if you like so that you can stop worrying about my poor wife having to 'make some room'). Although our house is probably overkill for our needs, 'making room' will be the least of her worries. So you see Donny, what's "sad" for you can be very pleasurable for other people. No 'one size fits all' here, right?
BTW, I just met a new incredible jazz guitarist who lives just 15 minutes from me. This guy is 68 yrs old and his playing is mind-blowing, very George Benson-ish. We got together last Sunday to jam and I'm still in disbelief that a guy like this is just living here quietly in retirement. The reason I bring it up is that he told me that the beautiful Gibson he carefully removed from it' case was purchased by him about 30+ years ago. The tone was heavenly and I'm guessing he'll go to his final resting place with that same guitar. Sometimes you just keep things because you like them. Ask Fran
.
Your best buddy,
chas