What To Do When You Inherit A Collection
When you inherit a collection, it may be daunting at first. However, don’t be in a hurry to get rid of it. Doing this can lead to a huge loss if you don’t know the value of the items. In light of that, we have compiled a list of suggestions for how to deal with an inherited collection.
Get Organized
While some collections are nicely cataloged and housed in displays, others may not be. The first thing you need to do is find a way to organize all the items in your inherited collection. Once sorted, it will be much less overwhelming to assess exactly what you have. From there you can decide what to sell or keep.
If you have inherited a card collection, a 5000-Count Super Monster Storage Box is very handy:
For coins, make sure they are in a protected storage container
For art pieces, you’re in luck because Amazon sells padded storage box containers and you can get them in just days with Amazon Prime.
Figure out what it is worth
When you inherit a collection, spending time researching is super important. Having a good understanding of what your collection is worth may seem daunting, but it will help you immensely once you start talking to brokers if you decide to sell, or even for an insurance claim should anything happen to the collection.
You can simply get an appraisal, but appraisers typically charge $50-$100 per hour. A cheaper option would be to search the item by specific markers, dates, and unique characteristics or contact a consignment seller, such as us here at Kelly’s Collectibles and Online Art Gallery, who have experience evaluating collections.
To sell or to keep
Now that you know the value it is going to be a much easier decision to sell or keep the collection. If you decide to keep the collection, it is important to keep all the items organized and well stored to protect them from water damage, sun damage or pests.
Keep a detailed inventory and value estimation (using an Excel spreadsheet is perfect for this). Not only will this be helpful in the case of loss for insurance but should you decide to pass along your collection, whoever inherits it will thank you!
Facebook Marketplace and Garage Sales
You could choose to sell your collection yourself through Facebook Marketplace or a garage sale. These options may take a long time and require a lot of upfront work. The easiest way to sell a collection is on consignment where experts (like us) advertise and sell your items to collectors worldwide. All you have to do is provide us your items so we can photograph them and once it sells we send you a check!
Do you have things laying around that could bring in extra cash?
Consign with us! We offer consignment services for those who don’t have the time or the know-how to sell their own items. There are no upfront fees and we only get paid if your items sell. Read more about our consignment services here.
The process is easy!
- Give us a list of your items – Call us or send us a list of your items. Use our contact form.
- Turn over your items – We will photograph, list and ship them. Or, send us photos and you ship your items when they sell.
- Receive a check every month!
Testimonial:
“Kelly was a dream to work with. I had not tried to sell anything on eBay so did not really know how it worked. Kelly was able to explain all the steps clearly and walked me through the process making sure I understood everything. She knows how to present the items, both the images as well as the descriptions, and makes selling things, including a baby grand piano, easy.” -Penny Kelleher
Artists:
Selling art online is all the rage these days. If you are a bit shy or are tired of talking up your art to the lookie-loos that stroll into your booth at an art show, then Kelly’s Collectibles and Online Art Gallery is a perfect platform for you. We write your listings, attract the buyers and all you have to do is ship it when it sells!
List your art with us and make your art visible to a worldwide audience.
Collectors:
Browse through hundreds of hand-picked pieces of collectibles and artwork from emerging to national and international-acclaimed artists. From paintings to sculptures and beyond, we have something you’ll love!
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Contact us! Through our network of artists, galleries, and collectors, we may be able to find the perfect piece to add to your collection!
Shop an assortment of collectibles and fine art.
Consignors:
Since 2009, Kelly’s Collectibles has been a Top Rated Seller on eBay. We specialize in selling art, vintage collectibles, unusual items and anything else someone might buy. Our clients have provided us some pretty interesting things over the years!
Consign your art and collectibles with us in 3 easy steps!
About Kelly’s Collectibles
I have been selling art for artists and creators over the past 10 years. I’ve visited their studios, attended their booths at art shows, and have heard firsthand the challenges they face to get their art in front of a qualified buyer. That’s where I come in….let me help you so you can do what you do best…create more art!
