My partner and I decided we needed to declutter our lives. Having initially boxed everything we wanted to part with we then spent several days sorting into seperate collections which I would say is essential. No dealer will want to sort through a bagfull of bits. We organised what we wanted to take into seperate bags of coins, jewellery and items we thought would attract the interest of the assessor.
The process was very easy. The assessor was sat at a desk (there was another assessor too). We had watched people take their things up and to be honest the reactions had not always been positive. On entry, we picked up a sticky label number and sat waiting our turn in an informal location and atmosphere. What I did notice was that the majority of valuations seemed to be over old toy cars, rings and necklaces and especially old electronics and cameras.
When our turn came we took everything to the desk and laid it out on the table and I would say being organised is essential, and we explained the personal history behind items of real interest. I think by engaging the agent he showed extra interest in what were good, quality items.
Items of good value he placed to one side, explaining why those items were good and why other items were not so valuable. Rare items really work, but mass produced items, even old model cars and Hornby trains are not going to make you money unless the items are very popular, rare and in good condition.
What got us a good valuation was boxed Scooby Doo Mystery Van, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Thunderbirds and Captain Scarlet. Mass produced Lotus, Ferrari etc did not so I think you have to be selective and not put your hopes too high.
Our gold items did well, as did precious stones, a coin collection of Victorian and Edwardian and Georgian coins, some surprisingly rare coins and some military items.
The gentleman explained what he liked and what he did not put high value on but he even went out to our car and checked some items that we had not brought in.
So, my advice is be selective, organise what you are prepared to sell into seperate bags if you have a lot of items, know your items with a little bit of research for conversation.
In the end everything we took was accepted. We had an idea how much we thought we would get and aimed low. We were not disappointed and the valuation was paid into our bank the same day.
A good valuation for us but i must say i think some people had expectations which left them disappointed. Remember the items may be personal to you for many reasons through memories or legacy but that will not be how a valuation will work. Be reasonable in what you hope and expect.
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