How to Ge an Antique Appraised

Whether you believe that you've found an antique that might be worth money or you need to find the value of a family antique, it is worth having it appraised. An appraiser can assess the worth of your items either for your own benefit or in some cases for insurance purposes. Whatever the reason, it is important to get it done properly.

• Go to the American Society of Appraisers' (ASA) website to find a certified appraiser.


• Go to the menu at the top of the page and click on the link for "Find an Appraiser."


• On the next page click the red "Start Your Search" button.


• Enter your zip code or select the state where you live.


• Select the type of item that you need appraised.


• Select an appraiser from the search results and contact them to set up an appointment. Get an estimate of what the appraisal is likely to cost you.


• Do not clean or polish the items. It is best to have antiques appraised in as close to their original condition as possible.


• Decide on a verbal or written appraisal. A verbal appraisal is done on the spot. The appraiser looks over your antique and provides you with a verbal appraisal that is based on his knowledge. On the other hand, a written appraisal is when the appraiser takes notes, pictures and measurements and then conducts further research based off of that information. An appraisal is then written based off of that research.