There are a number of factors to consider when determining how much your antiques are worth. Original maker’s marks, condition of the item, age, and rarity are some of the main features that will help you figure out if the item you have is worth a lot or not. See if you can learn how to place value on items like an appraisal pro. For example, a hand-painted or handcrafted antique piece that has an artist’s signature and a manufacturer’s mark is a great find and can be worth much more than a non-labeled, unsigned item. Newcomb objects are considered hallmark items of the Arts and Crafts Movement that followed the Industrial Revolution. This time period of the 1890s to the 1920s was a return to organic, decorative arts. Frankoma pottery is not worthless, it does have its rare items that can be worth $100. A unique characteristic of Frankoma pottery is that all items are made in the U.S. from Oklahoma-dug clay. However, if you own a hard-to-find Santa Claus postcard from the turn of the century, it’s likely worth more. A single Santa postcard can be worth $75 or more to an avid collector or dealer. If the glue is present, solders are easily detected, or chips have obviously been ground down, then an antique or collectible will lose value. Some minor repairs may not affect the value of a piece at all, but that is mainly dependent upon rarity and market demand. For example, if you have vintage items of a Disney character and Disney releases a new rendition of the movie that becomes wildly popular, your collectibles of that character may experience a peak in demand. Prices may drop down to pre-demand levels once market interest has passed, or they may remain high due to diminished supply as dealers have difficulty replenishing inventories. This requires you to study the market in your favorite collecting category and stay on top of value-affecting trends. When setting a price for one of your items, your judgment may overrule what experts have shared with you. But, it can be reassuring to get expert advice when you’re feeling a bit uncertain about valuing an item, especially something that is rare or uncommon. Make sure to reserve your favor-asking for when you really need it. Antique appraisers get paid for what they do for a living, just like other professionals, so be respectful of their time. Rarities can be difficult to value, but the most recent selling price for the same or similar object may be a good indicator of expected market value. Appraisers will often value antiques based on the median value rather than the highest or lowest prices realized for similar items. It happens all the time. A piece may sell well at an auction, but then the same item fetches a more moderate price at an antique show.
