When submitting a map for online evaluation it would be most helpful if you could provide:
1) Provenance: The item's history and where you obtained it from.
2) Measurements/dimensions in either inches or centimeters.
3) Digital photographs giving the front view and if there is any writing on the back a picture of it or tell us what it is often helpful (unless it just says something like framed by).
4) Most antique maps came out of books, sadly resulting in the destruction of said book. In order to properly evaluate we need to know, what the map is of, the year of publication and who made the map. A picture of these details is always helpful.
Note: Often the map are framed and matted with some or all the above necessary information being hidden under the matting. In which case it would be most helpful to look under the matting but it is not always necessarily so, however remember the more accurate information that you provide us with the more accurate you online evaluation appraisal will be.
Note: When measuring a map, it is actual size of it which does NOT include the measurement of the matting and/or frame.
Note: When evaluating for replacement value we fully consider the costs of framing, and any glazing and/or matting. When contemplating the market value, we give such things only minor consideration, with the emphasisis being the map. The understanding is that the new owner in all liklihood may choose to change the frame etc, hence our reasoning.
Online Evaluation, Appraisal of maps As with most things, high end maps should be inspected up close. Thus, you should call and book an appointment. We then come to your residence and inspect the map. We take pictures, measurements and examine the map. We then return home and examine the maps values, what he/she sells for at auction versus what dealers want for the map. A report is then written. The report is then and mailed to you along with a pdf file that you should store on your computer.
Our report (your appraisal) is accepted by both the courts and insurance companies
If you are just interested in knowing an estimation of your print's value then you can have us appraise on-line. On-line appraisals are just estimates based upon the information that you provide.
Accordingly, on-line appraisals should not be used for legal purposes whether that be for the courts or for insurance purposes
