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I found a fur coat (possibly mink) in a closet in the basement of my aunt's house. Sadly, it is falling apart. Seems a shame to trash it (the label says M. Solomon) which was a well-know local furrier in the 50s & 60s here. Would it be worth it to have it reFURbished?

Seams coming apart or hair falling out? If it's bald in spots...I wouldn't mess with it or pay to have it repaired.

To me, it doesn't matter if no one is wearing fur any more. The question is: Would you wear it after having it "reFURbished"? (loved that BTW)

I saw a segment on television several years back - people were sending their old furs to a woman who made teddy bears out of them...let me do a quick search...

WHEW! This one is PRICEY!
http://www.stadlerfurbears.com/heirloom-fur-bears.htm

This is better:
http://furandleathercreations.com/custom.html

There's a possibility that they might buy your fur.

Or, if you sew, give it a try yourself!

I found several sites. Just type in
teddy bears made from fur coat

Weakestlink -- why not take it to the local furrier and ask? I know that the seams and linings can be redone and it'll look like new IF the fur is in good condition. If the fur is bad, then it wouldn't be worth it.

As to wearing it, that's your choice. Guess I have mixed emotions about fur coats, but this is an old one, you're not buying new. And, as for danger, that never entered my mind. Guess I'm just not accustomed to living around nutcases.

Thanks for the info about teddy bears.

Many years ago I got a short walking style mink coat from my mom. I had the furrier make a vest with front zip and sweater knit sleeves. I wore it all the time doing errands, running around. Best part it looks great with jeans. Never felt threatened or in danger when wearing it. I wish I had had a throw pillow made from the scraps. Might have to see if I have anything else of hers in the storage closer.

weakestlink, Since I know you are dealing with several estates and not asking for yourself personally, I think I would follow up on the idea of selling/donating it to an organization that will make good use of it. They make teddy bears but, also, small pillows and comforters....

But the real question is: Do you have time for it? If so, wonderful. If not, give it over to an estate handler and move on to getting these estates closed. I know you have been struggling with them for several years now; your time and the chance to move forward is worth something as well....

There is also a project that uses old furs with some rescued wild animals. I will see if I can find an address and information for you.

Just as a side note. My cousin bought an old mink stole from an estate sale dirt cheap with the intention of using the pelts for trim on a regular coat. When she took it to have the work done, she found out that she had purchased a black russian sable mink worth about $55,000 and it was recommended that she keep it as a stole. Cone to find out the estate appraiser knew the value of the stole and deliberately under appraised the stole in hopes of being able to purchase it herself!!!!