Appraisal Services
Knowing that important philatelic and numismatic collections (yes, we appraise paper money too!) are often quite bulky and not easily transported, the Institute is prepared to conduct appraisals on-site, in your home or office. After consultation with you, we will dispatch our most qualified expert, familiar with your type of collection, to your location.
Expertise
We offer you the unparalled experience of engaging actual traders in the coin and stamp market place to help evaluate your collection. The Institute’s experts have knowledge that goes well beyond that of the local stamp or coin dealer or auctioneer. A fine stamp or coin collection requires international experience with the owner’s collecting area, as well as having a broad understanding of international trends in order to achieve a maximum return for the owner.
Truly important properties will be viewed by a specialist. Please see our list of references.
The Appraisal Process
Assigning an Expert Appraiser
In general smaller collections will be viewed by our regional representatives in their offices (generally for no charge unless appraisal documents are required). Large or complicated collections will be viewed at the owners location (where they generally do incur an appraisal charge. Please inquire).
Understanding Your Collection
We appreciate that many owners might not know the nature or value of the collection they have acquired, but you will see that after almost 60 years of asking questions, we will be able to rapidly understand your collection. What appears complicated to the non-collector is really quite simple for us. At all times, we strive to handle your appraisals with the utmost integrity and discretion.
Charges
There is almost never a charge for our collection appraisals. Wealthy collectors and patrons support our work. They are always seeking new material for their collections, and they compensate us when we find something for them. If formal appraisal or inventory documents are required, or very unusual expenses are incurred, a charge may be assessed (please inquire).
Helping You
Whether it be for a private sale, or a museum deaccession, it is important to obtain a complete and accurate fair market appraisal for your fine rare stamp and/or coin collection. We are here to help you.
If you are ready to take the next step, please complete an appraisal request form for collections, regardless of the estimated worth of your stamp or coin collection. We will respond to you as soon as possible.