Free tool appraisal app
A free tool appraisal app helps sort the first question: is the tool collectible, useful, decorative, incomplete, or worth a professional appraisal?
Found an old item and want to know if it matters?
Upload photos. We identify the object, check real sales, and show the right appraisal path.
Use the free screenerAntique appraisalsStart an appraisalOne clear answer
Start with tool type, maker mark, size, material, condition, completeness, and whether similar tools have sold. Rust, missing parts, and mixed lots can change the answer quickly.
Auction records are market evidence, not a final appraisal. Condition, authenticity, provenance, completeness, size, rarity, and demand can materially change value.
Photo checklist
- Photograph the whole tool, maker marks, patent dates, handles, blades, jaws, screws, boxes, labels, and damage.
- Measure length, width, jaw size, blade width, and include set contents if it is a kit or box lot.
- Note rust, sharpening, cracks, replaced handles, missing parts, repainting, and whether it works.
What changes the answer
- Maker, rarity, trade use, condition, completeness, original box, and collector demand drive value.
- Single tools, tool lots, Native American stone tools, and later shop tools compare differently.
- Heavy rust, missing jaws, broken handles, over-cleaning, and mixed incomplete sets reduce value.
Auction evidence from Appraisily's database
Recent tool records show why category and condition need context. These are market examples, not promises for your item.
| Category | Sale | Date | Lot | Realized | What it shows |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter tool lot | O'Gallerie | Apr. 13, 2026 | Box lot: antique carpenter wood planes collection | USD 180 | Tool lots need maker, completeness, and condition review. |
| Block plane | Atlee Raber Auctioneer | Apr. 8, 2026 | E.C. Emmerich German #649P adjustable block plane | USD 60 | Maker and specific model can help identify the comparison. |
| Stone axe | Caza Sikes | Apr. 29, 2026 | Full Groove Green Granite Native American Axe | USD 50 | Tool-like artifacts require cultural, authenticity, and legal context. |
Condition and authenticity cautions
Do not sand, repaint, sharpen, or aggressively remove patina before documentation. Marks and original surfaces can matter.
Use a professional appraisal when the item may be significant, needs insurance, estate, donation, or sale documentation, or has authenticity questions.
When the free screener is enough
Use the free screener for first-pass identification, condition review, and market direction before cleaning, restoring, selling, donating, or ordering a formal appraisal.
When to get a professional appraisal
Use a professional appraisal for insurance, estate, donation, legal, or higher-value sale decisions. See the professional sample report.
Related guides
Antique tools and machines value guides, Value of old tools, Antique tools value, Mastering antique tool identification, Identify antique farm tools, Old sewing machine value, Free antique tool appraisal, Unusual antique tools identification guide, Determining antique tools value.
FAQ
Can old tools be appraised from photos?
Photos can support triage when marks, condition, size, and completeness are clear.
Are rusty tools valuable?
Sometimes, but rust, pitting, missing parts, and over-cleaning affect value.
Should I clean old tools first?
Usually no. Document marks and surfaces before cleaning.
Need a clearer answer before you clean or sell it?
Upload photos. Appraisily identifies the item, checks real sales where available, and shows whether a free screen or professional report makes sense.
Start with the free screenerStart a professional appraisalSee a sample report