HOW TO FIND YOUR ANTIQUE’S VALUE

When you have an antique in your possession that you’d like to sell, it can be hard to know exactly how much it’s worth. Even if you have done some research and think you know what it’s worth, there are many factors that go into determining its value and those factors will differ from one antique to another and even between the same antiques in different situations. If you want to go about finding your antique’s value, follow these steps so that you can get the most money for your treasure.

Weigh it

Determining an antique’s value can be tricky, as it relies heavily on personal taste. If you don’t have a trusted appraiser in your area, you’ll likely need to research its overall value online, so start by looking up similar items in antique stores and estate sales. You should also consider researching similar pieces that have sold online or at auction.

Check for originality

Before you sell an antique or collectible, be sure that it is authentic and not a reproduction. You can do some simple tests yourself to test for age, but if you have any doubt about your piece, take it to an expert. This will increase your chances of getting a fair price when you resell.

Know its history

The first step toward finding your antique’s value is knowing its history. Ask yourself, how old is it? Where has it been? Who owned it? This can help you pinpoint a fair price. For example, if your family has owned an antique passed down through generations, there’s a higher likelihood of re-selling at a high price than if you found it at a garage sale.

Look at current prices

Price guides can help you determine how much your vintage item is worth. A general rule of thumb is that if an item is not in good shape (or near-perfect condition), its value will drop significantly. If it’s in mint condition, however, it may be worth more than what is listed in a price guide or online database.

Consider age, condition and materials

The three main factors that play a role in an antique’s value are its age, condition and materials. For example, is it an antique or a reproduction? Is it made of valuable materials such as sterling silver or gold? Is it in good shape for its age? These are all questions you should be able to answer if you want your items appraised. And don’t forget about market trends.