Consigning to Auction is Easy with Skinner
Skinner, Inc., is one of the world's leading auction houses for antiques and fine arts and the preeminent auction house in New England. With expertise in over 20 specialty collecting areas, Skinner provides exceptional marketing for property and attracts educated buyers who bid strongly because they trust Skinner's reputation, expertise, and the quality of offerings.
Request a FREE Auction Evaluation
Whether you wish to auction one object or an entire collection, contact the Skinner Appraisal Services department by calling 508-970-3299 to arrange an evaluation of your item(s).
Note: Obtaining an evaluation places you under no obligation to sell. There is no charge for an auction evaluation.
How We Evaluate Your Property
The Skinner appraiser will evaluate your property in terms of its auction marketability and will provide auction estimates. This is a price range that an appraiser believes your property will likely sell for at auction.
Skinner takes special care to find the proper auction for your property. This means including your item with like material to attract interested collectors. Skinner staff will evaluate current market demand and provide adequate sales exposure time. Consignments are generally needed at least 2-3 months in advance of an auction.
Approximately two weeks before the auction, you will receive notice of the sale date, auction location, and the lot numbers assigned to your items that will appear in that auction.
Commission Rates and Fees
Skinner's standard commission rates for a seller are:--10% for items selling for $7,500 or more;
--15% for items selling between $2,000 and $7,500; and
--20% for items selling for less than $2,000, with a minimum commission rate of $30 per lot.
For large collections and for items of exceptional quality, commission rates and other fees may be negotiable. Contact Skinner Appraisal Services at 508-970-3299.
Insurance Rates and Fees
Skinner maintains insurance on all property in its possession. Insurance is charged at a rate of 1% of the final bid once each lot is sold. Additional costs may include photography, storage, and transportation.After the Auction
Price information can be accessed online in real-time during an auction and after the auction. Note that prices listed online include the buyer's premium and are not the hammer price. Past price lists can be accessed on this web site at Auction Results. Thirty-five business days following an auction, Skinner sends settlement checks and statements containing the details of the commission cost and previously confirmed expenses and charges.
Sellers Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Skinner?
Skinner auctions are held at two sites: 63 Park Plaza in Boston's Back Bay and at exit 23C off of Route 495 in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Directions.
Where can I have potential auction items evaluated?
You may bring your property to Skinner's Boston or Marlborough galleries. Appointments are necessary. Auction evaluations may also be obtained by mailing photographs or by emailing digital images. See Auction Estimates for details.
What is consignment?
To "consign" literally means to "deliver" or "entrust." By consigning your property to Skinner, you are simply setting the stage for that property to be sold at auction on your behalf.
What does the consignment agreement cover?
The consignment agreement is a contract outlining the details of the auction process, Skinner's commission rate, and other associated fees. See Commission Rates and Fees.
Why does Skinner provide an "estimated range of value" for each object?
This high/low price estimate is printed in the auction catalogue with the object's lot number and description. Though not a guarantee, this estimate provides the seller with an expected range of auction value and the buyer with a guideline for potential purchase.
Is the "estimated range of value" the same as an "auction estimate?"
Yes. Auction estimates are given free of charge by Skinner's appraisers. Obtaining an auction estimate does not require you to sell your object(s).
How does an auction evaluation differ from a written appraisal?
A written appraisal is a detailed description of an object or collection that may be used for insurance or trust purposes. There is a fee charged for written appraisals.
What is a reserve?
A reserve agreement is a contract between the auction house and the seller, setting a minimum price at which an item can sell. Most property is offered without a reserve - at the auctioneer's discretion.
What happens if the reserve price is not reached on an item?
The auctioneer will "pass" on the item and withdraw it from the auction.
What if there is little interest for my consignment at the auction?
Even without a reserve, Skinner will pass on an item that does not generate interest, at the auctioneer's discretion. If this happens, several options can be discussed, including reoffering the object at another Skinner auction.
How do I deliver the objects that I am consigning to Skinner?
If sending merchandise by post for consignment, the appropriate specialty department should be clearly marked on the exterior packaging. A detailed packing list must be enclosed and, if possible, a copy of previous correspondence.
Two copies of Skinner's standard contract (consignment agreement) will be sent to you shortly after the property is received by mail at Skinner. You will then be sent a notice of the sale date and a final estimated range of the auction value for your property. (See Skinner mailing address or driving directions.)
Hand deliveries are accepted at the Marlborough gallery from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Fine jewelry should be delivered to the Boston gallery, preferably by appointment.
