Home >> Collecting >> Collecting Memorabilia

How to Find Out How Much an Item Is Worth

You may have an expensive antique in your basement or a rare gem in your jewelry box and not know its true value. If there is an item in your possession that you’ve always wanted to have priced, you can do so using a few simple tips. By pricing your item with a professional, you can be sure it is accurately appraised. Once you know the true value of your item, you may want to consider selling it to the highest bidder.

Things You'll Need

Appraisal report

Instructions

- 1
  Determine the date of purchase. If you do not have the original receipt or you don't know how long the item has been on the market, research similar items and compare based on size, appearance and condition.
- 2
  Take the item to an appraiser who specializes in that industry. For example, contact a jewelry appraiser if you want to appraise jewelry and a coin appraiser if you want to appraise coins.
- 3
  Get a second opinion. Visit a second appraiser to value the item, or use an alternative source such as an auction house, antique dealer, expert collector or state library. Provide color photo copies of the item or bring the original item for appraisal.
- 4
  Compare pricing across several geographical locations including international destinations. Market value changes drastically depending on location, so to obtain the best quote, research different geographical locations.

Collecting Memorabilia