How to Value Antiques

13 May 2025

Whether you're managing an estate sale, sorting through a family inheritance, or curating a personal collection, knowing the value of your antiques is essential. Understanding what something is worth can help you make informed decisions - whether you're looking to sell, insure, or simply appreciate its place in history.

At Cullens of Surrey, we know that antique valuation can seem complex, but it doesn't have to be. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of how to value antiques, helping you uncover which pieces are truly worth their weight in gold.

What Classifies as an Antique?

By definition, an antique is an item that is at least 100 years old. However, age alone doesn’t define value; historical significance, craftsmanship, rarity, and condition all play important roles.

Identifying what type of antique you have is the first step in uncovering its value; common categories of antiques include:

Furniture: Georgian sideboards, Victorian chairs, Art Deco cabinets.
Paintings: 19th-century oil paintings, portraits, and landscapes.
Ceramics: Porcelain, earthenware, and fine china from classic makers.
Clocks: Mantel clocks, longcase clocks, and ornate timepieces.
Jewellery: Vintage brooches, Victorian rings, Edwardian necklaces.
Textiles & Rugs: Handwoven Persian rugs, tapestries, and lace
Toys & Collectables: Tin toys, vintage dolls, comic books, and model trains.

How to Value Your Antiques in 6 Simple Steps

1. Research the Antique

Start by identifying your item. Look for makers’ marks, labels, stamps, or any signatures. Then, use books, trusted online databases, or auction results to understand more about its origin and potential value.

2. Examine Its Condition Closely

Condition is crucial. Items in near-original or well-maintained condition tend to hold more value. Check for chips, cracks, tears, or missing parts. Be honest in your assessment - restorations or heavy wear can significantly affect the price.

3. Evaluate Rarity & Desirability

An antique’s rarity and demand drive its market value. Limited-edition pieces, discontinued designs, or those linked to a significant maker or event are more valuable. Popular trends also shift; what’s desirable today might differ from a few years ago.

4. Compare Recent Market Prices

Check auction house listings, online marketplaces, or antique dealer websites for recent sale prices of similar items. Pay close attention to final sale prices, not just asking prices, for a realistic idea of what buyers are paying.

5. Get a Professional Appraisal

A certified appraisal provides an authoritative estimate of value. It’s especially important for insurance, probate, or sale purposes. Choose an experienced, reputable valuer who understands the specific type of antique you own.

6. Consider the Market Timing

The value of antiques can fluctuate with market trends, seasons, or even economic factors. If you're looking to sell, the timing could influence your return.

Top Tips for Antique Valuations

Do:

Choose a reputable and experienced valuer.
Inform them of the purpose - insurance, probate, sale, or inheritance.
Keep all provenance documents, receipts, or certificates.
Be transparent about any past repairs or restorations.

Don’t:

Attempt to restore or clean the item before a valuation - this can reduce its value.
Use unqualified or free online tools for official valuations.
Overlook the importance of valuation for insurance coverage.

What Is a Paid Professional Valuation Service?

A paid valuation service is a formal process in which a professional examines your antiques to provide a written or verbal valuation. These services are often used for legal matters (like probate), insurance, or when selling through auctions.

At Cullens of Surrey, our experienced team offers trusted probate valuation services, providing clear and HMRC-compliant reports for estates across London, Surrey and the surrounding areas. We combine expert knowledge with a personal touch, making the process stress-free and reliable.

Where Can I Find a Professional Valuation Service?

You have several options when seeking a professional valuation:

Local Estate Agents offer general bricks & mortar valuations but often lack antique expertise.
RICS-Accredited Valuers offer specialist knowledge and legal-grade valuations.
Reputable Auction Houses like Cullens of Surrey, where you can receive expert valuations and even consign items for sale directly.

With over a decade of experience in antiques, fine art, and collectables, Cullens of Surrey offers both in-person and remote valuation options tailored to your needs.

Looking to Value & Sell Your Antiques?

If you're ready to discover the true value of your antiques, Cullens of Surrey is here to help. Our expert team provides trusted valuations and auction services designed to give your pre-loved treasures a second life.

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