I've inherited antiques - what should I do next?
A household name from the World’s most popular Antiques show, Eric Knowles works alongside our team of experts.
Here he offers some guidance on where to begin if you are wondering what to do with an antique inheritance...
I've inherited antiques - what should I do next?
Inheriting antiques can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what you have or what it might be worth. The best first step is not to rush into selling or cleaning anything until you understand what you have.
Start by taking a careful look at each item and gathering as much information as possible. If there are any labels, maker’s marks, hallmarks, or signatures, make a note of them. Even small details can make a big difference to value and identification.
Next, try to keep items in their current condition. It can be tempting to clean or restore pieces, but this can sometimes reduce their value, particularly with furniture, porcelain, and silver. Where possible, leave items as they are until they’ve been assessed.
Once you’ve had an initial look, the most important step is to get a professional valuation. Clear photographs are often enough for an expert to provide a good indication of value and desirability. If the collection is large, a specialist may recommend an in-person appraisal.
It’s also worth thinking about your goals early on. Some people prefer to sell items individually over time, while others choose to sell a full collection together for convenience. There is no single “right” approach - it depends on value, time, and how hands-on you want to be.
At Antique Buying Collective. we regularly help people who have inherited antiques and aren’t sure where to start. We offer free, no-obligation valuations and can guide you through the process step by step, so you can make informed decisions without pressure.
