What’s my antique worth? How antiques are valued

The things that decide an antique’s value — condition, patina, provenance, rarity and demand — and how to get a piece valued.

It’s the question everyone asks, and the honest answer is: it depends — but not on mystery. An antique’s value comes down to a handful of understandable things. Learn what they are and you’ll look at your own pieces with a far shrewder eye.

Condition

The single biggest factor. Sound structure, original parts, working drawers and doors, and honest wear all add value. Damage, heavy repairs, replaced handles or missing pieces take it away. But beware over-cleaning — see patina below.

Patina

Patina is the soft, mellow surface that builds up over decades of light, wax and handling. Collectors prize it, and it can’t be faked. Stripping and refinishing a piece to make it look “new” usually destroys value rather than adding it. When in doubt, leave it be.

Provenance

A piece’s history — who made it, who owned it, where it’s been. A known maker, a signature, a good story or documented ownership can lift value considerably. Even a family recollection is worth noting when you sell.

Rarity and quality

Was it finely made, in good materials, by a workshop that knew its craft? Is it an unusual form or a scarce survivor? The best-quality example of a type will always outperform an ordinary one — quality tells.

Fashion and demand

Taste moves, and value moves with it. Some “brown furniture” is wonderful value right now precisely because fashion has swung elsewhere — which is good news for buyers, and cyclical. Decorative, useful and beautiful pieces hold their appeal best.

Getting a piece valued

A word of caution on the internet: a “sold” price online is only ever a guide, and “asking” prices even less so. For a real sense of what a piece is worth, nothing beats an experienced eye. Send us a few clear photographs with measurements and anything you know of its history, and we’ll happily give you an honest view — with no obligation.

If you’re considering selling, our guide toselling antiques and house clearances walks through the process. Otherwise, just emailarundeldecorative@gmail.com or call 07967 604264.