I don’t think it’s an antique, so I don’t think painting it would affect the value. It really boils down to what look you like. You could paint everything except the mail slot.

I’ll bet your grandparents would paint it and freshen it up. Mine would say, “Why are you leaving this looking that way?! Don’t let it go to rust and ruin!” :D

I’d do all the black part, nice and glossy, it’d really make the features look wonderful again. I’d leave the patina of the brass, though.

I think that I would try to do a good cleaning and see what happens. You could then decide if you want to paint it.

Give it a good cleaning and apply mineral or baby oil. You will be surprised at how good it will look. You have to reapply the oil a few time a year.

It's beautiful! Your husband is right -- do NOT paint that!!!

I would agree to clean it. Carefully. Maybe baking soda. And oil it. Gorgeous piece