Sometimes an item brought in is worth very little, or less than a person paid for it. Don’t be disappointed – there is always sentimental value. Many people, even after finding out their item is valuable, are not interested in selling their items because of the sentimental value it holds. All items have value when there are special memories attached to them. A common theme with the appraisals we see at these events are items passed down through a family whose stories have been lost. Ted suggests that you write as much of the story of an item down and attach it to the item (or store it with the item). For example, write on the back of a framed painting or print where you got it, the story you were told then, and anything you learn from your appraisal or own research. If a painting was created by a person you know, attach a photo too. Not only does this help keep an object’s information together (and handy for insurance and sale purposes), but it also ensures safekeeping of items that will be passed on to someone else in future. An item of yours that is one day passed to your grandchild will have value to them by virtue of it having been yours, but to pass on an item with the history and memories attached will mean that much more, even if the item has little or no sale value. 

A great way to keep track of your precious antiques, and any of the items you insure, is to create a journal or files detailing everything you know about the object.

• Where you got it

• Who you got it from – keep dated receipts if you purchased the item, and any pertinent documents that were included with the item.

• Letters, photos, or clippings relating to the object, especially those that could help prove ownership of the item.

• Any written appraisals done on the item.

• Reports detailing the date, scope, and cost of any repairs or restoration. Keep back ups of this information as well: hard copies in a fire proof safe or off site safety deposit box, and digital back ups in case something happens to your computer.

Now that you know what your item is and how much it’s worth, you may like to know how to insure them. We have compiled some information that can help guide you when choosing an insurance policy to cover your antiques and collectibles: Insuring your Antiques. 

You probably also want to know how to care for and protect your items. The best way to help protect your antiques from damage over time is to follow a few simple rules when displaying, storing, cleaning, and handling the variety of items you may own:

 

• Displaying your Antiques

• Handling your Antiques

• Cleaning your Antiques

• Storing your Antiques

You can also check our tip sheets for specific types of antiques:

 

• Basic Care of Items

• Wooden Furniture

• Photographic Materials

• Paper Documents and Newspaper Clippings

• Glass and Ceramics

• Silver

• Paintings

• Coins and Medals