How to get old furniture valued?

Get a professional furniture appraisal from a credentialed appraiser who can research your piece's maker, period, and comparable sales to establish a documented, defensible value.

Before contacting an appraiser, it helps to gather what you can yourself. Photograph the piece from every angle, including the underside, drawer interiors, and any joinery, and note the wood type, construction method, and condition. Look for maker's labels, stamps, or patent numbers, since these details narrow down the period and manufacturer and speed up the appraiser's research. Original hardware, hand-cut joinery, and unrestored surfaces typically point to higher value, while replaced parts, refinishing, or "married" components (pieces assembled from more than one original item) can lower it.

Once you've gathered that information, a formal appraisal is worth pursuing if the piece looks old, well-made, or potentially rare, or if you need documentation for a specific purpose such as insurance coverage, an estate settlement, a charitable donation, or a divorce proceeding. A qualified appraiser goes beyond a casual estimate: they research comparable auction results and dealer records, assess authenticity and originality, and produce a written report prepared in accordance with USPAP so the valuation holds up to scrutiny from insurers, attorneys, or tax authorities.

At Furniture Appraisal Experts, our appraisers hold credentials such as the ISA and AAA and handle everything from single antique pieces to full household collections. Most assignments can be completed through an online furniture appraisal, with photos and details submitted remotely, making the process straightforward even before you know whether the piece has real value.