We buy all Hersey brass water meters. Hersey meters are among the oldest and heaviest water meters in the US market. Their thick brass construction makes them particularly valuable for scrap — often 10-20% heavier than equivalent modern meters.
Hersey Meters (originally Hersey Manufacturing Company) is one of the oldest water meter manufacturers in the United States, with roots dating back to the 1800s. The company was eventually acquired by Mueller Water Products, but millions of Hersey-branded meters remain in service across the country.
Hersey meters are prized by scrap buyers because they were manufactured during an era when brass was used more generously. The walls are thicker, the bodies are heavier, and the overall brass content per meter is 10-20% higher than equivalent modern meters from Neptune or Badger. This means more dollars per meter when scrapping.
| Factor | Hersey (Vintage) | Modern Equivalent | Value Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/8" meter weight | 4.5-5.5 lbs | 3.0-3.5 lbs | +40-60% more brass |
| 1" meter weight | 10-13 lbs | 8-9 lbs | +25-45% more brass |
| 2" meter weight | 35-50 lbs | 25-32 lbs | +30-55% more brass |
| Wall thickness | Thick | Thinner (cost-reduced) | More material |
| Alloy | C83600 (85-5-5-5) | C83600 or Lead-Free | Same per-lb price |
| Size | Hersey Weight | Whole Meter Value | Stripped Value | Collector/Antique Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/8" | 4.5-5.5 lbs | $7.88 - $13.75 | $13.95 - $24.75 | $15 - $40 |
| 3/4" | 6-8 lbs | $10.50 - $20.00 | $18.60 - $36.00 | $20 - $50 |
| 1" | 10-13 lbs | $17.50 - $32.50 | $31.00 - $58.50 | $30 - $80 |
| 1-1/2" | 20-25 lbs | $35.00 - $62.50 | $62.00 - $112.50 | $60 - $150 |
| 2" | 35-50 lbs | $61.25 - $125.00 | $108.50 - $225.00 | $100 - $300 |
| 3" | 65-90 lbs | $113.75 - $225.00 | $201.50 - $405.00 | $200+ |
| 4" | 100-150 lbs | $175 - $375 | $310 - $675 | $300+ |
Some vintage Hersey meters have value beyond their scrap content. Collectors and decorators pay premium prices for:
If your Hersey meters are particularly old or ornate, send us photos — we can advise whether they're worth more as collectibles or scrap.
Premium prices for vintage Hersey meters. We appreciate the extra weight and quality of these classic meters.
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