12 Best Free Antique Appraisal Resources in 2025

Have you ever discovered an old family heirloom or a unique thrift store find and wondered, "What is this worth?" You're not alone. Many people have potential treasures sitting in their attics and basements but don't know where to start the valuation process. Getting a professional opinion can seem expensive and complicated, but numerous reputable options exist to get a free antique appraisal. This is the crucial first step whether you are a curious homeowner, a budding reseller, or sorting through a family inheritance.

This guide simplifies your search by detailing the 12 best resources available today. We cut through the clutter to show you exactly where to go for reliable information without spending a dime. From powerful mobile apps that provide quick insights to prestigious auction houses offering expert opinions, each option is reviewed to help you make informed decisions. We will cover the specific types of items each service specializes in, how to submit your antique, and what to expect from their process.

We have included direct links and screenshots for every resource to make your experience as simple as possible. Let’s explore the best platforms to help you unlock the stories and value hidden within your antiques.

1. Curio

Curio distinguishes itself as a premier tool for anyone seeking a fast, technologically advanced method for antique appraisal. This AI-powered mobile app acts as an expert in your pocket, designed to provide instant identification and valuation with just a photo. It’s an exceptionally well-rounded choice, blending speed with a depth of information that benefits both casual collectors and professional resellers.

The platform shines with its intuitive design and powerful features. Its core strength lies in its ability to not only identify an item's title, origin, and era but also to provide rich historical context that tells the story behind your find. For those needing a free antique appraisal, Curio offers a trial that includes three complimentary scans, making it a great starting point for immediate answers.

Standout Features & Use Cases

Curio’s Visual Matches feature is a genuine game-changer. After scanning an item, the app pulls up visually similar pieces from across the internet, including active marketplace listings. This function is invaluable for cross-referencing value, understanding market demand, and confirming an item’s identity against verified examples.

The app also includes a sophisticated collection management system. Users can digitally catalog their antiques, adding provenance, purchase price, and appraisal values, creating an organized inventory for insurance or resale purposes.

Best For:

• On-the-Go Identification: Instantly identify items at thrift stores, flea markets, or estate sales.
• Marketplace Research: Resellers can quickly gauge an item's potential value before purchasing.
• Collection Management: Enthusiasts can build a digital catalog of their personal collection.

Website: https://www.curio.app

2. Sotheby’s — Free Online Estimate

Sotheby’s offers a complimentary online estimate service, a strong choice for those who believe they possess an item of significant market value. This free antique appraisal is a preliminary assessment, not a formal valuation, but it leverages the expertise of one of the world's most prestigious auction houses. The process is straightforward: you submit clear photographs and any known details about your item's history and provenance.

Key Considerations for Sotheby’s

This service is best suited for items potentially worth thousands of dollars, such as fine art, rare furniture, or high-end jewelry. To understand the caliber of items they typically handle, one might look at offerings like Sotheby's Hong Kong's haute joaillerie, which showcases their specialization in the luxury market.

• Best For: High-value items like fine art, important decorative arts, and significant collectibles.
• Limitation: They will not provide estimates for items that fall below their minimum value thresholds or outside their specialized categories.
• Turnaround: Expect a response within 15 to 20 business days, though this can vary.
• Website: sothebys.com/sell

For those new to the process, it's helpful to understand the difference between an estimate and a formal appraisal; for more details, you can read this antique appraisal guide. Sotheby's offers an exceptional free starting point if your antique aligns with their high-end focus.

3. Christie’s — Complimentary Auction Estimate

Much like its main competitor, Christie’s provides a free provisional auction estimate for items it deems appropriate for sale. This streamlined online service is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a free antique appraisal from a world-renowned institution with deep expertise. The process is user-friendly, allowing you to submit up to six items at once, each with multiple images and detailed descriptions for a preliminary evaluation by their specialists.

Key Considerations for Christie’s

This service is designed to identify items for potential consignment and is not a formal appraisal for insurance or estate purposes. Christie's excels with blue-chip art, high-end jewelry, and significant decorative arts, so it's best to use this service if you believe your item fits within a luxury category. The ability to track submissions through a user account is a convenient feature that helps manage the process.

• Best For: High-value fine art, luxury goods, rare collectibles, and important historical artifacts.
• Limitation: Items that do not meet their internal minimum value thresholds or fall outside their collection categories will be declined.
• Turnaround: Typically, a response is provided within three to four weeks.
• Website: christies.com/selling-services/auction-services/auction-estimates/overview

For a successful submission, provide the clearest photos possible from multiple angles and include any known history or documentation. This initial estimate from Christie’s can be an invaluable first step in understanding the potential market value of a significant antique.

4. Heritage Auctions — Free Appraisal for Auction-Worthy Items

Heritage Auctions provides free online auction evaluations for items that fit its specialized categories. This service is an excellent choice for those with high-value collectibles, particularly in niche markets like coins, comic books, sports memorabilia, and luxury accessories. The platform leverages its position as a leading auction house in these fields to offer a preliminary, no-cost estimate of your item's potential auction value. The process involves a simple online form where you upload photos and provide details about your antique.

Key Considerations for Heritage Auctions

This platform stands out due to its deep specialization and transparent sales archives, which allow users to research past prices for similar items. This free antique appraisal is geared toward consignment, so the evaluation is focused on what an item might achieve at auction. This resource is particularly helpful for those looking to understand the market before selling.

• Best For: Collectibles like rare coins, comics, sports memorabilia, and fine or decorative arts.
• Limitation: The estimate is not a formal appraisal for insurance or tax purposes and is only for items Heritage Auctions would consider for consignment.
• Turnaround: Varies depending on the category and specialist availability, but you can typically expect a response within a few weeks.
• Website: ha.com/free-appraisals.s

Heritage Auctions offers a powerful, free starting point for owners of valuable collectibles. To make the most of this and other similar platforms, you can learn more about how a free antique appraisal online works. This can help you prepare your submission for the best possible outcome.

5. Bonhams — Submit an Item for a Free Auction Estimate

Bonhams offers a versatile free antique appraisal service through preliminary auction estimates. This international auction house provides a user-friendly online submission process, making it accessible for individuals to get an initial idea of their item's potential value. After submitting photos and details, a specialist reviews the information to determine if it's suitable for auction, providing a non-binding estimate.

Key Considerations for Bonhams

What sets Bonhams apart is its blend of global reach with local accessibility. They frequently host valuation days across the U.S. and offer flexible consultation methods, including video calls and in-person meetings. This makes them a strong option for those who prefer a more personal interaction following an initial online inquiry. Their expertise spans over 60 collecting categories, from jewelry and fine art to motor cars and collectibles.

• Best For: Individuals with items in diverse categories seeking flexible appraisal options, including in-person events.
• Limitation: Initial online estimates are provisional and subject to change after a physical inspection by a specialist.
• Turnaround: Varies depending on specialist availability and the volume of submissions, but they aim for a timely response.
• Website: sell.bonhams.com

This service is ideal for getting a preliminary valuation from a respected auctioneer without an upfront commitment. Keep in mind this free service is an auction estimate, not a formal written appraisal for insurance or estate purposes, which would require a separate arrangement.

6. Phillips — Complimentary Estimates (Focus on 20th/21st Century)

Phillips provides a focused, complimentary estimate service tailored to works of 20th and 21st-century art and design. This free antique appraisal is ideal for individuals who own modern or contemporary items and wish to gauge their potential auction value. The platform's streamlined online submission process is designed for ease of use, asking for clear images and any relevant information about the piece's history or provenance.

Key Considerations for Phillips

This service excels for items like contemporary art, modern furniture, photographs, and luxury watches from recent decades. Its global reach connects sellers to a dedicated international buyer base specifically interested in these modern categories. If an item is not suitable for auction, Phillips may also explore private sale options with the owner.

• Best For: Modern and contemporary art, design, photographs, editions, and luxury watches.
• Limitation: The platform has a narrow focus and will likely decline traditional or general antiques that fall outside its 20th/21st-century scope.
• Turnaround: Phillips aims to respond to submissions within 10 business days.
• Website: phillips.com/sell

Phillips stands out by offering a specialized appraisal gateway for a distinct and modern segment of the art market. It’s an efficient choice for those whose valuables align with a contemporary aesthetic rather than a classical one.

7. Freeman’s | Hindman — Request a Free Estimate

Freeman’s | Hindman provides a complimentary valuation service that is well-suited for those with diverse collections or entire estates. As a prominent national auction house, their free antique appraisal process leverages specialists across more than 50 collecting categories. Users can submit an online form with multiple images and any known details about their items.

Key Considerations for Freeman’s | Hindman

This service is a strong choice for individuals managing estates or collections that span various categories, from American furniture to modern art. Their wide network of U.S. offices also presents opportunities for in-person evaluations. The estimate you receive is intended to determine an item's potential auction value, not for insurance or tax purposes.

• Best For: Estates, multi-category collections, and items requiring specialized but broad expertise.
• Limitation: The focus is strictly on auction viability; items that don't meet their auction thresholds will likely be declined.
• Turnaround: A response is typically provided within 7 to 10 business days.
• Website: hindmanauctions.com/request-estimate

Freeman’s | Hindman is an accessible and reputable option, particularly for those in the U.S. seeking a consolidated opinion on a wide range of antiques without having to consult multiple individual specialists.

8. Doyle — Complimentary Auction Estimate

Doyle offers a free online auction estimate service, providing a straightforward way to get a preliminary valuation from their team of specialists. This option is excellent for those looking to understand an item's potential auction value without an initial financial commitment. The process involves a user-friendly online form where you can submit details and up to 15 images of your antique, furniture, artwork, or jewelry.

Key Considerations for Doyle

Doyle stands out with its wide range of accepted categories and frequent regional consignment days, offering an opportunity for in-person evaluations. This dual approach makes their free antique appraisal service accessible both online and locally. The estimate provided is provisional and intended to determine if an item is suitable for one of their sales, not as a formal valuation for legal or insurance needs.

• Best For: Furniture, decorative arts, fine art, and jewelry collections.
• Limitation: The estimate is contingent on the item's eligibility for a Doyle auction and is not a formal appraisal.
• Turnaround: Specialist feedback is generally responsive, though specific timelines can vary based on volume.
• Website: doyle.com/online-auction-estimate

The platform’s clear submission process is well-suited for both single items and larger collections. If you are considering selling, Doyle provides a reputable and accessible first step to gauge market interest and potential auction value for your pieces.

9. Bonhams Skinner (formerly Skinner) — Free Online Antiques Evaluation

Now part of the global Bonhams network, Bonhams Skinner offers a free online auction evaluation service that is particularly user-friendly. The platform provides detailed, step-by-step guidance on how to submit items, helping users provide the quality photos and information specialists need for an accurate preliminary assessment. This service is a strong option for those seeking a free antique appraisal from a reputable auction house with deep expertise in specific categories.

Key Considerations for Bonhams Skinner

Bonhams Skinner's strength lies in its clear submission process and specialized knowledge, especially in Americana, decorative arts, and fine jewelry. Their online evaluation is an estimate to determine if your item is a good fit for one of their auctions, not a formal appraisal for insurance or estate purposes. For a deeper understanding of what influences appraisal costs for formal documents, you can review this guide on appraisal costs.

• Best For: Americana, decorative arts, fine art, and jewelry where clear submission details can improve evaluation accuracy.
• Limitation: The one-item-at-a-time submission form can be time-consuming for users with multiple items.
• Turnaround: Typically provides a response within 10 to 15 business days.
• Website: skinnerinc.com/selling/online-appraisal/

The platform’s focus on helping you create a high-quality submission sets it apart, increasing the chances of receiving a thoughtful and well-informed auction estimate.

10. Swann Auction Galleries — Consign and Get an Estimate

Swann Auction Galleries is a highly specialized auction house, making it the ideal choice if you believe you own a valuable work on paper. They provide free auction estimates for items you are considering consigning, focusing on categories like rare books, maps, posters, photographs, and prints. The process involves submitting images and details through their online form or contacting a department specialist directly.

Key Considerations for Swann Auction Galleries

This platform's strength is its deep, focused expertise. While not a general free antique appraisal service, it offers unparalleled insight for specific niche collectibles. Their website provides transparent information on the selling process, including commissions and fees, which helps potential consignors understand the entire journey from estimate to auction.

• Best For: Works on paper, including vintage posters, rare books, photographs, prints, and manuscripts.
• Limitation: They do not handle general antiques like furniture, ceramics, or glass, limiting their scope significantly.
• Turnaround: Varies based on specialist availability and upcoming auction schedules.
• Website: swanngalleries.com/selling/

For owners of a potential fine art print or a first-edition book, Swann provides an authoritative and accessible starting point. It’s best to review their upcoming and past auction catalogs online to see if your item aligns with their specialized market before submitting.

11. Cowan’s (part of Freeman’s | Hindman) — Free Verbal Auction Estimates

Now part of the Freeman’s and Hindman network, Cowan’s provides a free verbal auction estimate service, making it an accessible option for those new to the appraisal process. This service is a preliminary market assessment, not a formal document, but it offers valuable insight from specialists, some of whom are familiar faces from television. The process is straightforward, allowing you to submit photos and details online, via email, or by scheduling an in-person appointment.

Key Considerations for Cowan’s

Cowan’s is particularly strong in Americana, historical artifacts, and other specialized categories, making it an excellent resource if your item fits these niches. Their free antique appraisal is ideal for getting a directional sense of value before deciding whether to sell or seek a paid, formal appraisal for insurance or estate purposes.

• Best For: Americana, historical items, firearms, and specific collectibles.
• Limitation: The free service provides a verbal auction estimate only; a formal, written appraisal for legal or insurance use is a paid service.
• Turnaround: Response times can vary based on specialist availability and the volume of submissions.
• Website: cowans.hindmanauctions.com/selling/auction-estimates

This service is a great first step for understanding the potential auction market value of your piece. It leverages the reputation of a long-standing brand to give you a trustworthy initial opinion without any cost.

12. Fontaine’s Auction Gallery — Complimentary Auction Estimates

Fontaine’s Auction Gallery provides complimentary auction estimates, making it a valuable resource for owners of 19th and early 20th-century decorative arts. This free antique appraisal service is offered through several convenient channels, including an online form, email, or in-person evaluation. The process is designed to assess the potential auction value of your item based on clear criteria like maker, condition, and provenance, with a notable specialty in certain antique categories.

Key Considerations for Fontaine’s Auction Gallery

This regional auction house excels in specific niches, offering quicker and more insightful feedback for items that align with its core business. If you own an antique clock, Tiffany lamp, or fine period furniture, Fontaine's is an excellent choice. Their website also provides access to past auction archives, allowing you to research comparable sales and get a feel for their market.

• Best For: Antique clocks, lighting (especially Tiffany), 19th to early 20th-century furniture, fine art, and jewelry.
• Limitation: As a regional auction house, consigning items from outside their area may require shipping arrangements. Estimates are focused on items they believe are suitable for their auctions.
• Turnaround: Response times are generally quick, particularly for items within their specialized categories.
• Website: fontainesauction.com/buy-sell/auction-estimate/

Fontaine’s is a great option for those whose items match its well-defined expertise, providing a realistic auction estimate from a reputable specialist.

Free Antique Appraisal Services Comparison

Making Smart Choices with Your Antique Appraisals

Navigating the world of antique valuation can feel like stepping into the past, but the tools at your disposal are decidedly modern. As we've explored, securing a free antique appraisal is no longer a search for a hidden expert. Instead, you have a spectrum of options, from the AI-driven immediacy of mobile apps to the seasoned eyes of specialists at globally recognized auction houses. The key is understanding what each resource offers and how to use it effectively.

The most critical takeaway is the distinction between a preliminary estimate and a formal, certified appraisal. The free services offered by auction houses like Sotheby's, Christie's, and Heritage Auctions are designed to gauge an item's potential at auction. These are invaluable for sellers looking to consign but are not suitable for insurance, estate planning, or legal documentation. Think of them as a crucial first step, a powerful indicator of market interest and potential value.

Your Strategy for Success

To get the most out of these free resources, a strategic approach is essential. Don't rely on a single opinion. By cross-referencing estimates from multiple sources, you can build a more comprehensive picture of your item's worth.

• Start Broad, Then Go Niche: Begin with a tool like Curio for an instant ballpark figure and initial identification. Then, if the item seems promising, approach a specialist auction house. If you have 20th-century art, Phillips is your go-to. For rare books, Swann Auction Galleries provides unmatched expertise.
• Preparation is Paramount: Your appraisal request is only as good as the information you provide. High-quality, well-lit photographs from multiple angles are non-negotiable. Capture any signatures, maker's marks, or damage. Include all known provenance-the item's history of ownership-as this can significantly impact its value.
• Understand the "Why": Before you seek an appraisal, define your goal. Are you simply curious? Looking to sell? Needing to insure a family heirloom? Your objective will determine the right path. A free auction estimate is perfect for a potential seller, while a curious collector might be satisfied with an AI-powered analysis.

The True Value of Your Antiques

Ultimately, the journey of discovering your antique's value is as rewarding as the final number. Each appraisal, each piece of expert feedback, adds another layer to your item's story. It connects you to its history, craftsmanship, and place in the world. Whether you uncover a hidden treasure destined for a prestigious auction or confirm the sentimental value of a beloved family possession, you gain knowledge and confidence. By leveraging the powerful and accessible tools we've covered, you can make informed decisions, protect your assets, and truly appreciate the history you hold in your hands.

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Ready to take the first step in uncovering the story behind your antiques? For instant identification and a preliminary value estimate right from your phone, download Curio. It’s the perfect starting point for your free antique appraisal journey, giving you the immediate insights you need to decide what to do next. Get started at Curio and bring an expert into your home, today.