Introduction to Antique Appraisals
Discovering an unusual item in your attic, inheriting a family heirloom, or finding a potential treasure at a yard sale can all lead to the same question: “What is this worth?” Antique appraisals provide the answer, offering expert evaluation of your items’ authenticity, historical significance, and monetary value.
What is an Antique Appraisal?
Appraisals serve multiple purposes beyond simple curiosity. They provide documentation for insurance coverage, establish fair market value for sales or tax purposes, verify authenticity, and offer insights into an item’s historical and cultural significance. In some cases, they can reveal surprising value in objects you might have overlooked.
Key Antique Appraisal Facts
Types of Antique Appraisals
Not all appraisals serve the same purpose. Understanding the different types will help you request exactly what you need.
Insurance Appraisals
Fair Market Value Appraisals
Liquidation Value Appraisals
Auction Estimates
Evolution of Antique Appraisal Methods
Connoisseurship Era
Formalization Period
Database Development
Digital Revolution
Finding a Qualified Antique Appraiser
Choosing the right appraiser is crucial for obtaining an accurate valuation. Not all self-proclaimed “experts” have the credentials or expertise to provide reliable appraisals.
Professional Qualifications to Seek
A qualified appraiser should have:
- Formal appraisal training and relevant certifications
- Specialization in your item’s category (furniture, jewelry, art, etc.)
- Adherence to the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)
- No conflicts of interest (should not offer to buy items they appraise)
- Experience working with similar items
Where to Find Appraisers
Appraiser Directory Resources
International Society of Appraisers
American Society of Appraisers
Appraisers Association of America
Heritage Auctions
Other sources include:
- Major auction houses (for higher-value items)
- Reputable antique dealers with appraisal services
- Museum curators (sometimes offer appraisal events)
- Online appraisal services (with varying degrees of accuracy)
The Appraisal Process Explained
Understanding what to expect during an appraisal helps you prepare properly and get the most value from the service.
Before the Appraisal
Pre-Appraisal Preparation Checklist
During the Appraisal
A thorough examination typically includes:
- Visual inspection of condition and craftsmanship
- Authentication of materials, techniques, and age
- Identification of maker, artist, or manufacturer
- Research on comparable sales and market trends
- Documentation of distinguishing characteristics
After the Appraisal
A professional appraisal report typically includes:
- Detailed description of each item
- Photographs and measurements
- Valuation analysis and methodology
- Comparable sales data
- Statement of the appraiser’s qualifications
- Defined purpose of the appraisal
- Date of valuation and signature
Understanding Appraisal Costs
Appraisal fees vary widely based on several factors, including the appraiser’s expertise, your location, the type of items being evaluated, and the depth of research required.
Typical Antique Appraisal Fee Structures
Category | Price Range | Notes |
---|---|---|
Hourly Rate | $200-$400 per hour | Most common for detailed appraisals |
Flat Fee (Single Item) | $250-$350 | Standard written appraisal |
Additional Items | $25-$100 per item | Incremental cost for similar items |
Written Report | $75-$150 additional | Comprehensive documentation |
Online Appraisal | $30-$150 per item | Based on photographs and descriptions |
Note: Price ranges are approximate and can vary based on condition, rarity, and market demand.
When Free Appraisals Make Sense
Free appraisal opportunities include:
- Auction house evaluation events (seeking consignments)
- Museum appraisal days (community outreach)
- Antique show dealer opinions (informal)
- Online valuation services (limited accuracy)
- PBS Antiques Roadshow events (highly competitive)
Remember that free appraisals often serve as marketing tools for businesses seeking inventory or clients. They may not provide the detailed documentation needed for insurance or estate purposes, and they might not be performed by certified appraisers.
Online Antique Appraisal Services
The digital age has made remote appraisals increasingly accessible, offering convenience but also some limitations.
How Online Appraisals Work
Reputable Online Appraisal Services
ValueMyStuff
Mearto
Heritage Auctions Free Appraisals
WorthPoint
Pros and Cons of Online Appraisals
Advantages:
- Lower cost than in-person appraisals
- Convenience of not transporting items
- Access to specialists regardless of location
- Quick turnaround times (often 24-48 hours)
Limitations:
- Cannot physically examine materials, construction, or condition
- May miss identifying marks or hidden damage
- Authenticity harder to verify without physical inspection
- Typically not suitable for insurance documentation
- Often provide estimates rather than formal appraisals
DIY Antique Identification Resources
While professional appraisals are essential for accurate valuations, you can do preliminary research before seeking expert opinion.
Research Tools and Resources
Antique Research Resources
Kovels' Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide
Miller's Antiques Handbook & Price Guide
The Spruce Crafts - Antique Marks Database
PBS Antiques Roadshow Archive
Worthpoint Marks & Patterns
Mobile Apps for Antique Identification
Useful apps include:
- Google Lens (visual search tool)
- Antique Identifier - Antiq ID (reference database)
- WorthPoint Mobile (subscription-based price guide)
- Hallmark Guide (for identifying silver and gold marks)
- Magnifying tools with measurement capabilities
Remember that these tools provide starting points for research rather than definitive appraisals. They’re best used to gather information before consulting with professionals.
Common Misconceptions About Antique Appraisals
Several myths and misconceptions surround antique valuations that can lead to unrealistic expectations.
Age Doesn't Always Equal Value
Family Stories Aren't Definitive Provenance
TV Appraisals May Not Reflect Reality
Appraisals Have Expiration Dates
Factors That Influence Antique Value
Understanding what impacts an item’s worth can help you better prepare for an appraisal and set realistic expectations.
Key Value Determinants
The Impact of Restoration on Value
General guidelines on restoration:
- For museum-quality pieces, original condition typically commands the highest prices
- Period-appropriate, minimal restoration by skilled experts may maintain value
- Obvious repairs, replacements, or modern materials often reduce value
- Some categories (like furniture) may be more forgiving of restoration than others (like porcelain)
- Always consult an expert before attempting restoration on potentially valuable items
What to Do After Getting an Appraisal
Once you have your appraisal in hand, several steps can help you maximize its utility.
Secure Proper Insurance Coverage
Document and Archive Properly
Consider Market Timing
Schedule Regular Updates
Post-Appraisal Checklist
FAQs About Antique Appraisals
Common Questions About Antique Appraisals
How do I find out what my antiques are worth?
The most reliable method is to consult a qualified appraiser who specializes in your item’s category. For preliminary research, you can:
- Search online auction archives for comparable sales
- Consult price guides and reference books
- Use online valuation services for initial estimates
- Visit antique dealers for informal opinions
- Attend appraisal events at museums or auction houses
Remember that accurate valuation requires examination by a credentialed professional, especially for potentially valuable pieces.
How much does it cost to get antiques appraised?
Professional appraisal costs vary based on several factors:
- Formal written appraisals typically start at $250-$350 for a single item
- Additional items usually add $25-$100 each
- Hourly rates range from $200-$400 depending on expertise and location
- More complex items requiring extensive research may cost more
- Online appraisals range from $30-$150 per item
The complexity, rarity, and value of your items will affect the total cost. Always get pricing information in writing before proceeding.
Can you get antiques valued online?
Yes, several reputable services offer online antique valuations based on photographs and descriptions:
- ValueMyStuff provides expert opinions within 48 hours
- Mearto connects you directly with specialists
- Many auction houses offer preliminary online evaluations
- Some appraisers now offer virtual consultations
While convenient and often less expensive than in-person appraisals, online valuations have limitations. They’re best for initial estimates rather than formal documentation for insurance or estate purposes.
Is there an app to identify valuable antiques?
Several apps can help with preliminary identification and research:
- Google Lens uses visual recognition to identify objects
- Antique Identifier (Antiq ID) offers reference information
- WorthPoint provides auction prices (subscription required)
- Magnifying apps help examine marks and details
These tools are useful for initial research but don’t replace professional appraisals. Their accuracy varies widely, and they may miss critical details that affect value.
How often should I get my antiques reappraised?
Most experts recommend updating appraisals every 3-5 years, as market values can change significantly over time. You should also consider reappraisal after:
- Major market fluctuations in your items’ category
- Restoration or repair work
- Changes in an item’s condition
- Discovering new provenance information
- Before insurance policy renewals
Insurance companies often require updated appraisals for scheduled items, so check your policy requirements.
Should I clean or restore my antique before appraisal?
Generally, no. Professional appraisers prefer to see items in their current state:
- Light dusting or gentle cleaning is acceptable
- Avoid polishing metals, refinishing wood, or repairing damage
- Don’t remove patina, which can be valuable evidence of age
- Never attempt restoration without expert advice
Improper cleaning or restoration can significantly reduce value. Let the appraiser advise you on appropriate conservation measures.
Does an appraisal guarantee I can sell my item for that amount?
No. Appraisal values represent different concepts depending on the appraisal type:
- Insurance appraisals state replacement value (typically highest)
- Fair market appraisals indicate theoretical willing buyer/seller transactions
- Liquidation appraisals estimate forced sale scenarios (typically lowest)
Actual selling prices depend on finding the right buyer, market conditions, selling venue, timing, and transaction costs. Selling prices are often lower than appraised values.
What's the difference between an authentication and an appraisal?
While related, these are distinct services:
- Authentication focuses solely on verifying an item’s genuineness
- Appraisal includes authentication but also assigns monetary value
- Some experts specialize in authentication without providing valuations
- Authentication may require specialized scientific testing
For valuable items, both services may be necessary, sometimes from different specialists.
External Resources for Antique Appraisal
Helpful Antique Appraisal Resources
International Society of Appraisers
Heritage Auctions Free Appraisals
ValueMyStuff Online Appraisals
Liberty Mutual Antique Appraisal Guide
PBS Antiques Roadshow Appraisals
Mearto Online Antique Appraisals
Consumer Reports Appraisal Guide
Specialty Appraisals
Conclusion
Antique appraisals provide essential information about your treasured possessions, whether for insurance, sale, tax purposes, or simply satisfying curiosity. By understanding the appraisal process, finding qualified experts, and properly documenting your items, you gain both knowledge and protection.
Remember that appraisals represent a snapshot of value at a specific moment in time. Markets evolve, tastes change, and values fluctuate. Regular reappraisals ensure your understanding of your collection’s worth remains current.
Whether you possess family heirlooms, flea market finds, or curated collections, professional appraisals provide peace of mind and help you make informed decisions about your antiques and collectibles. The investment in proper appraisal services typically pays dividends in accurate insurance coverage, fair market transactions, and deeper appreciation of your items’ historical and cultural significance.