You can visit any antique store dealer to inquire about getting an appraisal. Some dealers are certified to give appraisals, and some are not. Just because someone sells antiques does not make them an expert at applying value. If your antique store dealer is not an appraiser, get some references. You should be able to get a few to work with.



An antique appraisal is the process of putting a valuation on an antique. People are often surprised when items that have been passed down from generation over generation are taken to an antique store dealer and gotten an appraisal. If you have many aged items and things that have been passed on to you over the years, don't be so quick to dump. You may be sitting on a gold mine! One of the fun things about watching the Antique Road Show is when people don't realize they have something they thought was worthless that turns out to be worth thousands! The other side of that coin is when someone brings something that is really worthless.

Based on what we just talked about, you know why it is so important to get a solid valuation on an item from a professional. As the lay person, you just don't know. When you get ready to have something you feel is an antique, there are things you need to know before you go see an appraiser. The first thing is basic. Whether you are going to have something valued online or in a brick and mortar store, you need to check the references of the company that is going to do the appraisal. A few questions to ask: How long they have been in business? Do they have references you can call? How do you feel in general when speaking with them? Are they affiliated with any antique organizations?

Buying online antiques is one thing, but having an appraisal done online may not be the best option. The reasons are many, but the biggest is there is really no way you can get a real opinion from someone who cannot actually feel and touch the item. Pictures can be misleading, and anyone who tells you they can get an accurate valuation online should be approached with caution. You can buy antiques online from reputable people who have had valid appraisals done, but you can't really get an appraisal done online.

A real life and inperson appraisal done by a reliable professional should be your first choice in getting your antique valued. What is important to do when you get an appraisal in person is not to reveal your intentions with the item. Whether you are planning on selling or not, just say you want to get an opinion, as a less then truthful appraiser may low ball the value if they want to buy it and then mark it up.

Make sure you work with an appraiser that has experience in the specific type of antique you have. Don't have a toy expert place a value on the English China set in your cabinet! That is unless he is an expert in both. One resource you can take advantage of is your local museum or art center. Many times, these experts deal with periods, and they can tell you more about the item, and give you a point of reference so that when you do speak with an appraiser, you have your own set of information to compare with. The same with the archaeology department of a university. Many of these professionals can identify rarities as archaeology is the study or periods and really old stuff!

Costs for getting an appraisal can vary widely, so make sure you do your homework by calling around and getting different quotes. Make sure you are clear up front with the appraiser what it is you are looking for and what services you are needing. Likewise, when you are ready to sell, once you have created a good rapport with your appraiser, ask for recommendations on reputable antique store dealers.