The quick answer
Start by separating the collection by category. A rare book, a vinyl pressing, a key comic issue, and an old postcard are valued with different evidence and different buyer expectations.
What to sort first
Group books by author and edition, records by artist and pressing details, comics by title and issue number, and paper by format, date, subject, issuer, and condition.
Condition and completeness
Dust jackets, bindings, inserts, posters, sleeves, signatures, centerfolds, stamps, cancellations, and missing pages can change the appraisal path. Photograph flaws clearly.
When the free screener helps
Use the free screener when you need to know which items deserve deeper review. It is especially useful for mixed boxes where only a few pieces may carry meaningful market interest.
When to get a written appraisal
A written appraisal is more appropriate for rare, signed, historically important, insured, donated, estate, or sale-ready collections.
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 a box of books, records, comics, or paper?
Upload group photos plus close-ups of titles, issue numbers, labels, signatures, condition flaws, and any provenance notes.
Start an appraisalUse the free screener