Value of old maps
Old map value depends on maker, region, date, state, edition, color, condition, size, provenance, and demand. A decorative map and an important first-state map are not the same market.
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Old map value depends on maker, region, date, state, edition, color, condition, size, provenance, and demand. A decorative map and an important first-state map are not the same market.
Auction records are market evidence, not a final appraisal. Condition, authenticity, provenance, completeness, demand, and market timing can materially change value.
Quick value checklist
- Photograph the full map, title cartouche, imprint, date, margins, verso, folds, color, plate marks, and frame condition.
- Measure the sheet and image area. Note backing, linen, mat burn, tears, repairs, foxing, fading, and trimming.
- Keep atlas covers, text leaves, certificates, receipts, and provenance with the map.
Note: We couldn’t find enough auction records that directly match Value of old maps to publish a defensible price table. If you are valuing a specific item, include its maker, model, material, photos, and condition so the search can be narrowed.
What similar items actually sold for
To help ground this guide in real market activity, here are recent example auction comps from Appraisily’s internal database. These matched sales are market context only, not an object estimate or identification, and they do not guarantee a price for your specific antique map.
Shown USD range: USD 20-USD 425. Median of these 11 USD examples: USD 90.
| Comparable | What sold | Auction house | Date | Lot | Source-reported amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
Ortelius, "Argonautica", Engraved Map | Kaminski Auctions | 2015-01-18 | 3300 | USD 325 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Antique Map of the Kingdom of Prussia | Akiba Galleries | 2025-08-19 | 434 | USD 50 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Resin-Encased Vintage Map of Ancient Rome in Wooden Frame | Lion and Unicorn | 2025-07-10 | 143 | USD 20 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Ortelius, "Hispaniae Ve Teris Descripto", Engraved Map | Kaminski Auctions | 2015-01-18 | 3070 | USD 425 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Antique Map of Canada | District Auction | 2015-03-15 | 63 | USD 60 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Framed & Matted Vintage Map Of The Bermudas | Greenwich Auction | 2018-02-25 | 583 | USD 90 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
HONDIUS WORLD MAP PRINT WITH METALLIC ELEMENTS | Affiliated Auctions & Realty LLC | 2024-11-20 | 8167 | USD 20 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Ortelius, "Fori Iv Lii Accv Ralta De Scripto", Engraved Map | Kaminski Auctions | 2015-01-18 | 3299 | USD 325 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Laurie and Whittle Antique Map | Neal Auction Company | 2021-08-04 | 473 | USD 150 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
18th Century Hess Germany Hand colored Engraved Map | Carnegie's Auction Gallery | 2024-11-24 | 174 | USD 250 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
 |
Gary Indiana Antique Map | Copake Auction Inc. | 2025-08-23 | 327 | USD 20 (buyer’s-premium treatment unknown) |
How these auction records were verified
Each row retains its exact source URL, lot identity, retrieval time, access result, and immutable record hash. Inspect the public comparable provenance record.
Disclosure: prices are shown as reported by auction houses and are provided for appraisal context. Learn more in our editorial policy.
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