From jewelry to movie memorabilia, your antiques endured many years before ending up in your hands. Determining their true value could take some time. Professional appraisers consider a number of factors before coming up with a concrete number. If you're wondering what goes into antique appraisal, take a look at the following guide.

3 Factors Considered When Appraising an Antique

1. Authenticity

The appraiser will want to verify that your item is a genuine antique. They may check that the item is actually from the year or era you claim it to be, or that it’s made of precious metals or jewels.

A coin from 1902 would be stamped with the year, and sterling silver jewelry would feature a “725” stamp. If there is nothing to signify the item’s authenticity upon inspection, the appraiser may have to do more research to know for sure.

2. Rarity

If the item proves to be authentic, the appraiser will then consider how many of that item exist in the world.  For example, if there were only 15 silver dollars minted in a particular year, one of these may be worth much more than an older coin that was printed by the thousands.

They’ll also consider the surviving rate of the object. While there may have originally been hundreds of a certain chair made during the 1930s, if you have one of the dozen left in existence, the antique would be worth a pretty penny.

3. Condition

Most antiques feature some wear and tear, and a bit of discoloration or warping may be a testament to the item's authenticity. However, a broken or severely damaged piece may not be eligible for resale or display, which can discount the appraisal. If your item was restored, the appraiser will consider the skill level of the restorer—a novice may make mistakes that devalue the antique.

If you need an antique appraised for insurance or resale purposes, turn to the experts at Collector's Palace Coins & Jewelry in Streetsboro, OH. Whether it’s jewelry, coins, or flatware, this team is happy to appraise items from customers throughout northeast Ohio. You can expect a thorough yet efficient analysis of your goods from these professionals. If you’re hoping to add to your collection, visit their store to browse their items for sale. To learn more about this celebrated local shop, visit their website or call (330) 626-2464.