Authentication & Grading: General

International Society of Appraisers (ISA)

An appraisal can help listing traders set an appropriate value and help potential acquiring traders know the item has been verified by an objective source. A professional appraiser provides a written opinion of value, based on evaluation, research, and report writing.

The International Society of Appraisers is the largest association in North America devoted solely to the appraisal of personal property. Its members are professionally educated and tested and must adhere to a strict ethics code and appraisal standard.

To find an appraiser in your local area, the ISA Web site offers an online version of their membership directory that is searchable by location and expertise of appraisers. In choosing an appraiser, be sure to ask questions about their qualifications, expertise, and references.

Do not hire an appraiser who charges a percentage of the appraised value, or charges a "contingency" fee. These practices may result in biased values. Hourly fees, flat rates, or per item charges are acceptable.

For more information on this service or to search the ISA database of appraisers for experts in your area, visit the ISA web site.

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