You're often better off taking a potentially valuable item to a specialist who is better qualified to judge its worth and might have better resources to get the most value. The following have been in their areas of specialty for 20 years or more in most cases. All can give appraisals, but some might not be licensed. Some will be able to give free general information and value without a formal appraisal but only on a limited number of items. Appraisers charge between $75 and $150 per hour. Some do home visits, but many start with a photo that is mailed, brought in or e-mailed.
Antique furniture, glass, silver and china:
Jim Marrinan (Appraisal Specialists Midwest, St. Louis Park, 952-926-0225).
Art, especially East Asian art:
Jim Billings (612-788-7890, www.jamesbillings.com).
Coins
Tom Miels (651-633-3070, St. Paul).
European porcelain and Russian art
Blaine Bolden (612-870-9520).
Firearms for sport
Cabela's in Rogers (763-493-8600) or north of Owatonna (1-507-451-4545).
Gemstones/diamonds
Mike West or Bob Moeller (R.F. Moeller Jewelers, 651-698-6321, St. Paul).
Jewelry
Tom Bianchi (Jewelry Appraisal Consultants, Edina, 952-929-0015) or Liz Greene Simmons (Evergreene Jewelers, Minnetonka, 952-473-7655).
