How to Get an Antique Appraised: Expert Guide to Valuation Services

This comprehensive guide explores the various methods for getting your antiques professionally appraised, from traditional in-person evaluations to modern online services. We’ll cover everything you need to know about the appraisal process, including costs, preparation, and how to choose the right appraisal method for your specific needs.

Formal Written Appraisals

Formal appraisals provide detailed written documentation of an item’s value, including comprehensive descriptions, condition assessments, and market comparisons. These appraisals are typically prepared by certified professionals and are suitable for:

• Insurance purposes
• Estate planning and settlement
• Tax donation purposes
• Legal proceedings
• High-value items

Informal Verbal Appraisals

Verbal appraisals offer a general assessment of an item’s value without formal documentation. These are often provided for free or at a minimal cost and are suitable for:

• General curiosity about an item’s worth
• Deciding whether to pursue a formal appraisal
• Quick assessments before selling at a yard sale or online
• Learning more about an item’s history and characteristics

Professional Appraiser Organizations

One of the most reliable ways to find a qualified appraiser is through professional organizations that maintain strict standards for their members:

• International Society of Appraisers (ISA): Members must complete rigorous education requirements and adhere to ethical standards
• American Society of Appraisers (ASA): Provides certification across various specialties, including antiques and decorative arts
• Appraisers Association of America (AAA): Focuses on fine and decorative arts with qualified members nationwide

Auction Houses

Major auction houses often employ expert appraisers and may offer valuation services:

• Sotheby’s: Offers both free valuation days and formal appraisal services
• Christie’s: Provides appraisal services and periodic valuation events
• Local auction houses: Many regional auction houses employ specialists who can provide valuable insights

Antique Dealers and Specialists

Experienced antique dealers often have the expertise to evaluate items in their specialty areas:

• Specialty dealers focusing on specific categories (furniture, jewelry, art, etc.)
• Antique mall owners or managers
• Museum curators (for particularly rare or historically significant items)

Online Appraisal Services

For convenience and often quicker turnaround times, consider reputable online appraisal services:

• ValueMyStuff: Offers expert appraisals within 24-48 hours from former Sotheby’s and Christie’s experts
• Heritage Auctions: Provides free online appraisals for collectibles
• WorthPoint: Offers a vast database of sold antiques for comparison purposes

Auction House Appraisal Days

Many auction houses periodically host free appraisal events for the public:

• Check auction house websites for upcoming “valuation day” or “appraisal day” events
• These typically provide verbal assessments rather than formal written appraisals
• Great for getting expert opinions on whether items warrant further evaluation

Antique Shows and Fairs

Antique shows often feature appraisal booths or scheduled appraisal events:

• Look for events advertised as having “appraisal clinics” or similar services
• Fees are typically nominal (often $5-20 per item)
• Provides access to specialists in various categories of antiques

Television Appraisal Programs

Popular programs like “Antiques Roadshow” offer free appraisals:

• Check PBS Antiques Roadshow for upcoming event locations
• Requires obtaining tickets to appraisal events, which are often distributed by lottery
• Even if your item isn’t selected for on-air appraisal, experts will still evaluate it

Local Museum Appraisal Events

Museums sometimes host appraisal events as fundraisers:

• Check with history museums, art museums, and historical societies in your area
• These events typically charge a small fee that benefits the museum
• Often feature specialists with expertise relevant to the museum’s focus

How Online Appraisals Work

The typical process for getting an online appraisal includes:

1. Select a Service: Choose a reputable online appraisal platform
2. Submit Information: Upload clear photos of your item from multiple angles
3. Provide Details: Include any known history, measurements, markings, or provenance
4. Pay the Fee: Online appraisals typically range from $28-100 per item
5. Receive Your Appraisal: Most services provide results within 24-72 hours

Benefits of Online Appraisals

• Convenience: No need to transport potentially fragile items
• Access to Specialists: Online platforms often employ experts from around the world
• Quick Turnaround: Many services provide results within 1-3 days
• Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than formal in-person appraisals
• Privacy: Discreet evaluation without public exposure of your items

Limitations of Online Appraisals

• Less Comprehensive: Cannot examine physical condition as thoroughly as in-person
• Photo-Dependent: Quality of the appraisal depends on the quality of your photographs
• Not Always Suitable: May not be appropriate for extremely rare or valuable items
• Limited Legal Standing: Some online appraisals may not be accepted for insurance or tax purposes

What to Expect During an In-Person Appraisal

1. Initial Consultation: Discussion of your item(s) and appraisal needs
2. Physical Examination: The appraiser will carefully inspect the item
3. Documentation: Photos and notes about condition, identifying features
4. Research: The appraiser may need time to research comparable items
5. Written Report: For formal appraisals, you’ll receive a detailed document

Questions to Ask Your Appraiser

• What are your qualifications and specialties?
• What professional organizations do you belong to?
• How do you determine value for this type of item?
• What factors most affect this item’s value?
• Can you explain the methodology used in your appraisal?
• How often should I have this item reappraised?
• Do you have any recommendations for care or preservation?

What to Bring to an Appraisal Appointment

• The item itself, handled and transported carefully
• Any documentation of provenance or history
• Previous appraisals or receipts
• Information about similar items that have sold recently
• A list of questions about the item

Contact appraiser, describe your item, and schedule appointment or submit online request.

Gather documentation, clean item appropriately, take preliminary photos if submitting online.

Appraiser examines item in person or reviews submitted photos and information online.

Appraiser researches comparable items, sales records, and historical context to determine value.

Receive final appraisal report with valuation, description, and supporting information.

Elements of a Comprehensive Appraisal Report

A quality appraisal report should include:

• Detailed Description: Precise measurements, materials, style, period, and distinguishing characteristics
• Condition Assessment: Documentation of overall condition, any damage, repairs, or alterations
• Provenance: History of ownership and any documentation supporting authenticity
• Valuation Methodology: Explanation of how the value was determined
• Comparable Sales: Examples of similar items that have recently sold
• Photographs: Clear images documenting the item from multiple angles
• Appraiser Credentials: Information about the appraiser’s qualifications
• Purpose Statement: Specification of the intended use of the appraisal
• Limiting Conditions: Any factors that might affect the accuracy of the appraisal
• Signature and Date: Official validation from the appraiser

Different Types of Value

Appraisers may determine several types of value, depending on the purpose of the appraisal:

• Fair Market Value: What a willing buyer would pay a willing seller when neither is under pressure
• Replacement Value: Cost to replace an item with one of similar quality and utility
• Insurance Value: Typically the highest valuation, used for insurance coverage
• Liquidation Value: Amount expected in a forced or time-constrained sale
• Auction Value: Estimated price range the item might bring at auction

Furniture

Antique furniture appraisal often focuses on:

• Wood type and quality
• Construction methods and joinery
• Original hardware and finishes
• Maker’s marks or signatures
• Regional characteristics

Jewelry and Timepieces

For jewelry and watches, appraisers typically evaluate:

• Metal content and gemstone quality
• Craftsmanship and design elements
• Maker’s marks and signatures
• Mechanical condition (for watches)
• Original boxes and documentation

Art and Decorative Objects

Art appraisals consider:

• Artist recognition and importance
• Subject matter and style
• Provenance and exhibition history
• Condition and conservation state
• Signature authentication

Collectibles and Memorabilia

Collectibles valuation often examines:

• Rarity and production numbers
• Condition relative to grading standards
• Completeness (original packaging, accessories)
• Historical significance
• Current market demand

Find qualified personal property appraisers through this member directory of certified professionals.

Submit photos online for free preliminary appraisals of collectibles by Heritage Auctions experts.

Comprehensive guide to finding appraisers and understanding the appraisal process.

Expert appraisals in 24-48 hours from former Sotheby's and Christie's specialists.

Information about attending Antiques Roadshow events for free in-person appraisals.

Find accredited appraisers across multiple specialties through this professional organization.

Warning Signs of Dishonest Appraisers

Be cautious if an appraiser:

• Offers to buy the item they’re appraising (conflict of interest)
• Provides a valuation without thoroughly examining the item
• Cannot or will not provide credentials or references
• Gives an appraisal value that seems unusually high or low
• Charges a percentage of the item’s value rather than a flat fee
• Refuses to explain their valuation methodology
• Lacks affiliation with professional appraisal organizations
• Provides only verbal estimates for high-value items

Best Practices for Protecting Yourself

• Research the appraiser’s credentials thoroughly
• Get recommendations from trusted sources
• Request and check references
• Get multiple appraisals for very valuable items
• Ask detailed questions about how values are determined
• Get all terms, fees, and services in writing before proceeding
• Verify that the appraiser has appropriate expertise in your specific type of item

Mobile Apps for Preliminary Identifications

Several apps can help with initial identification and rough valuations:

• Antique ID: Uses image recognition to identify and provide preliminary values for antiques
• WorthPoint: Provides access to a vast database of sold antiques for comparison
• Mearto: Connects users with experts for quick assessments based on photos

Digital Databases and Price Archives

Online resources that track sales and auction results:

• Live Auctioneers: Archives past auction results for reference
• Invaluable: Tracks auction sales across numerous categories
• TIAS.com: Maintains pricing data for various antiques and collectibles

Virtual Appraisals

Video-based appraisal services have become increasingly popular:

• Zoom or FaceTime consultations with professional appraisers
• Virtual appraisal events hosted by museums and organizations
• Streaming appraisal shows that allow viewer submissions

Appraisal costs vary widely depending on the type of appraisal and the appraiser's qualifications:

- Formal written appraisals typically start at $250-$350 for a single item
- Additional items usually cost $25-$100 each when appraised together
- Online appraisals are more affordable, ranging from $28-$100 per item
- Some auction houses and antique shows offer free verbal appraisals or charge nominal fees ($5-20 per item)
- Hourly rates for on-site appraisals typically range from $150-$300 per hour

The complexity, rarity, and value of your item may also affect the cost of appraisal.

Becoming a qualified antique appraiser requires education, experience, and often formal certification:

1. Develop knowledge through courses in art history, decorative arts, or specific collecting areas
2. Gain practical experience working with antiques through employment at auction houses, galleries, or museums
3. Pursue formal education through appraisal organizations like the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) or American Society of Appraisers (ASA)
4. Complete required coursework in appraisal methodology, ethics, and legal issues
5. Obtain certification by passing examinations and meeting experience requirements (typically 3+ years)
6. Maintain certification through continuing education

Most reputable appraisal organizations require members to adhere to a code of ethics and maintain professional standards.

Yes, several apps can help with preliminary identification and valuation of antiques:

- **Antique ID**: Uses image recognition technology to identify antiques and provide estimated values
- **WorthPoint**: Offers a vast database of sold antiques for comparison research
- **Magnolia Appraisal**: Connects users with professional appraisers for virtual assessments
- **Google Lens**: Can help identify objects by visual search
- **eBay App**: Allows searching completed listings to see recent selling prices

While these apps can be helpful for initial research, they should not replace professional appraisals for valuable items, insurance purposes, or legal matters.

Several options exist for free or low-cost antique appraisals in your local area:

- **Auction House Appraisal Days**: Many auction houses periodically host free valuation events
- **Antiques Shows**: Look for shows that feature appraisal booths (typically $5-20 per item)
- **PBS Antiques Roadshow**: Check their website for upcoming events in your region
- **Local Museums**: Many host appraisal events as fundraisers
- **Antique Shops**: Some shop owners may offer informal opinions on items
- **Local Historical Societies**: May host community appraisal events

For the most reliable free appraisals, look for events featuring qualified appraisers with relevant expertise in your type of item.

The accuracy of online appraisals varies depending on several factors:

- **Quality of photographs**: Clear, detailed images from multiple angles improve accuracy
- **Information provided**: The more details about history, markings, and condition, the better
- **Expertise of the appraiser**: Reputable services employ qualified specialists
- **Type of item**: Some items are easier to evaluate remotely than others

Online appraisals from established services like ValueMyStuff or Heritage Auctions can be quite accurate for many items. However, they may have limitations for:

- Extremely rare or unusual pieces
- Items where condition subtleties greatly affect value
- Objects requiring physical testing (like precious metals or gemstones)
- Items needing authentication of signatures or other details

For high-value items or those requiring insurance or legal documentation, an in-person appraisal is generally recommended.

The appropriate frequency for reappraisals depends on several factors:

- **Insurance requirements**: Many insurance policies require updates every 3-5 years
- **Market volatility**: Categories with rapidly changing values may need more frequent reappraisals
- **Significant market events**: Major shifts in collectible markets may warrant reappraisal
- **Condition changes**: Any damage, restoration, or deterioration calls for reappraisal

General guidelines by category:

- Fine art: Every 3-5 years
- Jewelry and precious metals: Every 2-3 years (due to fluctuating material values)
- Furniture and decorative arts: Every 5 years
- Collectibles in volatile markets: Every 2-3 years

Consult with your insurance provider about their specific requirements for scheduled items.

While related, appraisals and authentications serve different purposes:

**Appraisal:**
- Determines the monetary value of an item
- Considers market conditions, comparable sales, and item condition
- Results in a valuation opinion with supporting evidence
- May include authentication as part of the process, but focuses on value

**Authentication:**
- Verifies an item's genuineness or attribution to a maker/artist
- Focuses on material analysis, stylistic examination, and provenance research
- Results in a determination of authenticity or attribution
- Does not necessarily include a value assessment

In many cases, authentication is a necessary prerequisite for an accurate appraisal of valuable items. For important pieces, you may need to seek both services, sometimes from different specialists.

Antique dealers can provide valuable insights, but there are important considerations:

**Potential benefits:**
- Dealers often have extensive knowledge in their specialty areas
- They regularly handle similar items and track market trends
- They may provide quick, no-cost opinions

**Potential drawbacks:**
- Inherent conflict of interest if they're also potential buyers
- May provide "retail replacement value" rather than other value types
- May lack formal appraisal methodology training
- Opinions may not be accepted for insurance or legal purposes

For casual inquiries or initial assessments, dealer opinions can be helpful. For formal purposes (insurance, estate planning, donations), it's better to seek an independent appraiser with no financial interest in the item and appropriate credentials.

Whether you’re seeking an appraisal for insurance purposes, to satisfy your curiosity, or to determine whether to sell, the information you receive can help you make informed decisions about your antiques. Remember that the most valuable aspect of an appraisal often goes beyond the monetary assessment—it includes the historical context, craftsmanship appreciation, and deeper understanding of your item’s place in the world of antiques and collectibles.

For valuable or historically significant items, consider investing in a formal appraisal from a qualified professional. For items of more modest value or when you’re simply curious, explore the many free and low-cost options available both locally and online. Either way, the knowledge you gain will enhance your appreciation of your antiques and help you make appropriate decisions about their care, display, insurance, and potential sale.