"Appraisal" is a word that is often misused.  Below is information that may be helpful to you before you contact an appraiser:

Q: When do I need an appraisal?

A: An appraisal may be required for a number of different reasons, for example: to separate assets when a business or marriage ends; when a loved one dies to equitably divide assets among heirs or for tax purposes; when donating an item of high value; when insuring an asset; or when entering a claim after damage of an asset.

Q: I just want to know how much my item is worth, do I need an appraisal?

A: Probably not.  If you are just curious, you can contact Mahn Miller Collective, Inc. to get an advisory opinion of the potential sale value of an item.  This is based on our experience as an auction professional and not a formal appraisal.  This is not a free service.

Q: What is USPAP and why is it important?

A: USPAP stands for Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.  This was developed (and is updated) by the Appraisal Standards Board.  It was developed to promote and maintain a high level of public trust in appraisal practice by establishing the minimum of accepted and recognized standards of appraisal practice in the United States. USPAP is, for us, the very minimum that an appraiser should be following when writing appraisal reports.  There is no "USPAP Police."  Anyone can write an appraisal report, but if an appraiser is not following the minimum accepted standards the appraisal may not be accurate or stand up to scrutiny in court if the appraisal is challenged.

Q: How much does an appraisal cost?

A: Appraisal prices vary based on the amount of work involved.  There may be an inspection day fee, there may be travel fees, and there are fees for hourly report writing.  So, the bottom line is, an appraisal isn't cheap.  That said, you get what you pay for.  With Mahn Miller Collective, Inc.  you receive a USPAP compliant appraisal from a company that is led by Megan Mahn Miller who has been working in this specific market since 2006.  Mahn Miller also teaches appraisal report writing for the National Auction Association's appraiser designation.

Q: What is the difference between memorabilia and a collectible?

A: In our practice, memorabilia is an asset that is from the personal collection of a celebrity, was used by a celebrity, was used in the production of a film/play/recording, or is somehow related to a historic person or occasion.  Examples are: a screen-used prop, stage worn clothing, a photograph, or a recording.  In general, these are items that were not mass produced.  In contrast, a collectible would be an item that was mass produced.  For example, a Beatles bobble head, a Star Wars trading card, a book. If you have more questions please contact us.