Start with the closest object type
Books, manuscripts, comics, postcards, stamps, maps, documents, and posters each use different evidence. Choose the closest guide first, then gather the details that category needs.
Condition is central
Paper condition can change value quickly. Look for tears, foxing, fading, trimmed edges, missing pages, loose bindings, restoration, annotations, water damage, and odor.
Edition and completeness
For books and comics, edition points, printings, dust jackets, inserts, signatures, and completeness matter. For stamps and paper money, issue, grade, cancellation, and originality are separate questions.
When a free guide is enough
A guide is enough when you need vocabulary, photo direction, and a first-pass sense of what to research. It is not enough for insurance, donation, estate, or high-value sale decisions.
When to get appraisal
Get a professional appraisal when the item may be rare, signed, historically important, part of a collection, or needed for insurance, estate, donation, or sale planning.
Choose your next step
Use the path that matches the decision you need to make about the item.
Need a signed report?
Use this for insurance, estate, donation, resale, or documented value decisions.
Start a signed reportNot sure it is worth appraising?
Start with a lower-friction screen to understand the likely category, evidence, and next step.
Use the free screenerNeed local or specialist help?
Compare directory options when the work needs in-person review or a specialist near you.
Find local specialistsSee what the report looks like
Sample reports show how photos, comparable evidence, condition notes, and a value conclusion are documented.
Found books or paper collectibles?
Upload photos of covers, title pages, signatures, condition flaws, edition points, and any provenance so we can route the right appraisal path.
Start an appraisalUse the free screener