How to Find an Antique Appraiser (and What It Costs)
How to find a qualified antique appraiser near you, what credentials to look for, how fees work, red flags to avoid and how to prepare for the appraisal.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
For most items, an app scan and some sold-price research are enough. But when something looks valuable, or you need a figure for insurance, an estate or a donation, you need a qualified appraiser. Here's how to find a good one.
When you need a professional appraisal
- Insuring valuable items (see antique appraisal for insurance)
- Settling an estate or dividing inheritance
- Charitable donations where you need a valuation for tax purposes
- Divorce or legal disputes
- Selling something potentially high-value privately
Types of appraisers
- Generalists assess household contents broadly — useful for estates.
- Specialists focus on one area: fine art, silver, jewelry, clocks, furniture, Asian art, coins, stamps.
- Auction house specialists give auction estimates, usually free, for items they might sell.
Match the appraiser to your item. A jewelry appraiser isn't the right person for a Georgian bureau.
Credentials to look for
In the US, look for membership in professional bodies such as the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) or the Appraisers Association of America (AAA), and training in USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice). In the UK, RICS and similar bodies play a comparable role. Other countries have their own associations.
How fees work
Reputable appraisers charge:
- An hourly rate, or
- A flat fee per item or per project
They should never charge a percentage of the appraised value — that creates a conflict of interest. Fees vary widely by region and specialty, so ask for a quote up front.
Red flags
- Offering to buy the item after appraising it (conflict of interest)
- Percentage-based fees
- No written report
- Vague about credentials or methodology
How to prepare
- Gather provenance: receipts, family history, old photos, previous appraisals.
- Photograph the item, including marks and damage.
- Note measurements.
- Don't clean, polish or repair it beforehand.
- Decide the purpose (insurance, sale, estate) — it changes the type of value used.
Narrow it down first
Before paying for appraisals, triage. Scan items with AntiqueIQ to see what each piece is and its estimated value range, then only take the promising ones to a professional. It can save hours of appraisal fees on a house full of things. See also free antique appraisal options.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an antique appraisal cost?
It varies by region and specialty. Expect hourly or per-item fees; get a written quote first.
Can I get an antique appraised online?
Yes, many services review photos for a fee. For insurance or legal use, check that the appraiser provides a formal written report.
What's the difference between insurance value and market value?
Insurance (replacement) value is usually higher than fair market value — what a willing buyer would pay today.