Thinking of selling a collection, or have you recently inherited one? Here is how to prepare for an initial conversation, without having to identify everything yourself.
Selling a collection
Understand the steps, from showing us your collection to a possible purchase offer.
See the steps →Family collectionInheritance and passing it on
Preserve the albums and prepare for a conversation when you discover a relative’s collection.
Get guidance →Helpful photographs for an initial opinion
- An overview of the albums, binders and boxes, without changing their arrangement.
- A few representative pages, with clear images free from glare.
- Some items in detail and, for letters, the whole document, front and back where useful.
- Information already available: certificates, notes, the collection’s origins, countries, periods and approximate size.
Tell us what you know and leave any unknowns open. These photographs provide initial guidance; some details and questions of authenticity then require direct examination.
Before sorting or moving the albums
Keep the original arrangement and any documents that accompany the items. Avoid unnecessary handling, cleaning products and removing stamps from antique letters.
Keep albums away from moisture and direct light. If the collection is large or fragile, contact us before transporting it.
Understanding an offer
A catalogue value, the asking price in a listing and the price actually achieved refer to different situations. The condition of the items, their identification and demand need to be considered together.
Our initial opinion is free, confidential and carries no obligation to sell. You can ask for explanations and take time to decide.
Let’s prepare for our first conversation
Tell us briefly about your plans. We will agree the next steps with you, remotely or by appointment in L’Isle-Adam or Pamiers.