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Guide to Valuable Finds
Discover how a global network of experts, businesses, and organizations is committed to democratizing fortune-finding for first-timers. They offer easy-to-use tools, resources, and advice to obtain quick, free ballpark valuations. While the submission process usually takes five minutes or less, it may take several days to receive a reply from the appraiser.
Unlocking Treasures: A Beginner's Guide
Starting the journey into item appraisal requires understanding the process and the importance of finding reputable specialists. Connecting with trusted experts is key to accessing the best resources and can lead to discovering hidden treasures—potentially transforming lives. This phenomenon has been highlighted by renowned experts on shows like PBS’s Antiques Roadshow 🔗. A 2020 ABC News report 🔗 further showcased significant finds on Antiques Roadshow over the years.
Fortune-Finding from Home
You don’t need to appear on PBS in the US or on BBC’s Antiques Roadshow in the UK to uncover valuable finds. World-renowned appraisers and specialists offer free appraisals online and in person through various methods. A 2019 Nightly Business Report (NBR) 🔗 story, published on YouTube, highlights in a two-minute video (below) how major auction houses began using AI to value items from photos and descriptions. This technology provides anyone with a phone a fast way to identify potential treasures—such as a Ming Dynasty ceramic and an emerald ring that sold for millions, as mentioned in the report. Today's AI advances, along with improved photo, video, and verification methods, promise even greater accuracy and speed in uncovering hidden gems.
Reputable Specialists Are Key
The keen eyes of reputable specialists are responsible for the vast majority of discoveries reported by the media, which we've followed globally. These specialists are typically highly trained historians who can catch tiny details that general resale dealers might miss. In fact, many dealers depend on these specialists to price rare items, as demonstrated in numerous news stories.
How to Find Reputable Experts
This guide outlines various resources that have proven helpful for beginners in discovering valuable finds. It provides examples of methods used to locate reputable experts for items from A to Z. A key part of this process is confirming the value of items with trusted specialists.
Research Before You Choose
Keep in mind that while we stay informed about treasure news, discoveries, and finders, we do not monitor the reputations of specialists highlighted in tools, lists, or news articles. Therefore, it's crucial to do your research—check customer ratings and verify the identity and qualifications of any specialist before contacting them.