Where Can I Sell Historical Items?

What is considered a Historical item? Essentially, these items are objects, artefacts, or documents that have significant cultural, social, military, or political importance from the past. These items provide valuable insights into the history, traditions, and way of life of a particular period of time or civilisation; indeed, they help document the evolution of humanity.

^{A pocket watch gifted to Winston Churchill by Lord Asquith for crossing the floor in 1904}

^{Sold for £76,000}

Historical items can range from ancient tools, weapons, and pottery to important documents, manuscripts, medals, jewellery, and works of art. They serve as tangible links to the past, allowing us to better understand and appreciate the experiences and achievements of the generations before us.

^{A Chinese butterfly vase, Guangxu mark and probably of the period – March 2021}

^{Sold for £20,000}

Perhaps you own an artefact with an interesting historical background, and you may possibly be wondering where you can sell for the best return. There is a robust and vibrant international marketplace for collectable items with significant provenance, however, choosing the most suitable place to sell will very much depend on the type of item you possess - its value, its historical significance, and most importantly, the level of exposure needed to achieve the highest sale price.

There are specialist dealers throughout the UK (and worldwide) who focus solely on buying and selling historical items of a specific nature. They will either offer to purchase your ancient wares, or alternatively locate a suitable buyer. While dealers will usually pay quickly, it is worth noting that they will want to make a considerable margin on every item they handle. As such, there is no guarantee that you will receive the best possible price.

^{Ralph Kerr Medal Group (Captain of HMS Hood, sunk by German battleship The Bismarck)}

^{Sold for £14,000}

Platforms like eBay provide a convenient global marketplace where you can list and sell your items. However, you won't get the support or expertise that you would when working with a reputable auction house or dealer. You will need to have thoroughly conducted your research and provide extensive proof and information to authenticate your historical item(s). It is worth noting that there are considerable risks involved when selling through an online marketplace.

We would always recommend a reputable international auction house like Dawsons as an avenue for selling historical items. With extensive industry experience, our highly skilled team of experts provide a seamless service covering valuation, logistics, marketing, and sale.

^{A renaissance painting by a follower of Filipino Lippi}

^{Sold for £255,000}

Here at Dawsons, fine sales are broadcast live across multiple auction platforms to a global audience of over 10 million active bidders for maximum exposure. Whilst our innovative in-house marketing direct to buyers all over the world, allied with creative social media posts, ensures we achieve the highest sale price for our clients.

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Are you considering selling any items with historical significance?

With a huge global audience of known and active bidders, Dawsons can secure the highest prices.

Get in touch with an expert Valuer for confidential sales advice, we would be delighted to help:

0207 431 9445 / info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk