a question for them as might know

In the on-going pursuit of gathering enough money to make rent this month, I'm taking some things to one of the local antique dealers tomorrow -- some tools that belonged to my grandfather, a couple of dolls, those sorts of things. But. I also have an antique sewing machine -- dates back to the 30's or 40's, I believe -- that belonged to my grandmother. My grandpa refinished the wooden cabinet it's housed in, and as far as I know it's in good, working condition (I don't sew, so I have no clue; I have it purely for sentimental reasons).

My question(s) is/are this: how/by whom would I go about getting it appraised? Would an antique dealer do that? (I really don't want to have to haul this thing around, it's heavy as sin.) Would I (could I) research it's worth online, via a serial number (assuming it has one)?

If y'all had such a beast to consider selling, would you go through an antique dealer/store, or would you try the craigslist/want ads/ebay approach? I can't even imagine doing it via ebay, to be honest; even trying to guesstimate what shipping might be makes me feel faint.

So, thoughts? Any input is likely to be helpful :)