How To Value Antiques Like An Appraiser

If you frequent auctions, you know how vital it is to understand the condition of items. You may also know that this and other factors (like provenance, age, and rarity) will affect the value of the item up for bid. Knowing the following factors can help you value items like an appraiser!

Maker’s mark

Often, specific marks on an antique can guide you in assessing its value. Whether through a signature or a unique manufacturing method, numerous indicators can reveal its origin. Identifying any maker’s marks on the item not only unveils its history but could also significantly increase its worth.

Item condition

The condition of an item is vital when it comes to determining the value of the piece. You will need to check for things such as:

• Chips
• Wear and tear
• Cracks
• Stains
• Any missing components
• Rust or other signs of deterioration

Rarity

The rarity of an item significantly enhances its value. Original artwork, for instance, becomes more valuable due to its unique nature and the impossibility of exact reproduction. Imperfections like cracks or chips do little to diminish the value of an item if it is exceedingly rare. Essentially, items that are one-of-a-kind, original, or simply scarce tend to maintain or increase their value over time.

Age

The value of an item primarily depends on market demand rather than its age. Although auctions often feature older items, this is not a universal rule. Therefore, when considering selling your piece, it’s crucial to determine if there’s a genuine demand for it based on age or a different factor.

Authenticity

To determine the value of your antique, you need to know if it is authentic. People will try to recreate high-value items so that they can sell them. Authentic items will have a much higher value and demand. If you aren’t sure if what you have is authentic, it is best to take it to an expert to find all of the history.

Restoration

A lot of older pieces will have been restored in some way or another. Restoration doesn’t always mean that the item will be worth less, though. Typically, if the restoration was done professionally and without altering the original structure or features of the item, it can increase its value. However, if the restoration was poorly done or altered the item significantly, it could actually decrease its value. It’s crucial to do your research and consult with experts before making any decisions about restoring an antique.

Provenance

In order to value your item accurately, you must know its history and origin, or provenance. Provenance refers to the record of ownership, custody, or location of an object over time. It includes historical documents, receipts, photographs, and other evidence that can help establish the authenticity and significance of an item. Knowing the provenance of your antique can add value to it and make it more desirable for collectors or museums.

Market trends

Finally, it’s essential to stay updated on current market trends when valuing antiques. The value of items can fluctuate depending on demand and popularity among collectors. Keeping an eye on recent sales and trends can help you determine the best time to sell your antique for maximum value.

Comparable value

To help determine the value of your item, do some research on similar items that are for sale. If your item is in better condition, it might be worth more. It could also be worth more if there are little to no other items like it.

Trash or treasure

While many antique collectors have individual preferences, certain factors can determine if an item is considered worthless or valuable. The rarity and condition of the item play crucial roles in this assessment. But, if an item is so damaged that its origin or age is indiscernible, it is unlikely to hold significant value. Additionally, understanding market demand is critical; an item in demand can transform what might seem ordinary into a prized possession for collectors.

Expert advice

When assessing the value of an item, consulting an expert is crucial. Their insight is invaluable as they can provide a comprehensive understanding of the item’s history and provenance. Having an expert evaluate your item ensures that you gain access to all pertinent background information, which is essential in determining the item’s rarity and demand.

Want to know more?

To find out more about buying or selling antiques at auction, contact High Plains Auctioneers today. You can also check out our Upcoming Auctions to see what we will have available. Reach out to us at 806-244-6776 or send us an email.