If you’ve decided it’s time to sell your collection of antiques, signing up at online auctions for antiques and collectibles is one way to sell to the highest bidder. Selling online means more people will view what you have for sale over selling locally. Be sure you know the approximate value of your antiques or at least have a minimum asking price in mind before posting your auction listing.

As a buyer at an online antique auction website, you may discover those hard-to-find pieces to add to your collection. You’ll find thousands of listings you can browse through and bid on from the convenience of your own home or office. Never bid more than you’re willing to pay or more than you think the item is worth, and if you have any questions, contact the seller prior to placing a bid.

Whether you’re the buyer or seller at an online collectible auction, you should:

1. Look for Internet auctions for collectibles that match what you like to collect.

2. Research the value of your items by using Internet auctions for antiques that offer appraisals.

3. Use an online auction for antiques that lets you buy and sell.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Go to online collectible auctions geared toward specific types of collectibles

Many collectors enjoy certain types of collectibles or memorabilia. Whether you collect antique guns, vintage postcards or comic books, old toys, or even brand-specific memorabilia, you can find an online auction for collectibles that carries what you seek.

I recommend: A-Gun Auction allows users to buy or sell antique guns and gun-related collectibles. Whether you’re selling a common name or looking to buy an obscure make and model, this online auction site makes it easier to get what you seek. Probably the biggest name in online auctions, eBay also has sections dedicated specifically to antiques and collectibles. With antiques, collectibles and artwork of every kind offered from around the world, everyone is sure to find something to bid on, and with so many people browsing, sellers may find it easier to sell just about anything imaginable.

Pick Internet-based antique auctions with appraisal services

Some websites not only offer Internet auctions for collectibles and antiques, but they also work with appraisers or have valuation services where you can learn what your auction items are worth. Although electronic appraisals aren't usually as accurate as physical appraisals, it's a good way to get an idea of an item's value.

I recommend: Old And Sold is an online auction for fine antiques where you not only can bid on and/or sell antiques and collectibles, but you can also request an appraisal of your item through its association with Wilcox & Hall Appraisers. Biddington’s offers online auctions for art, antiques, old books, historical memorabilia, coins, collectibles and more. It also has an art valuation service for finding appraisals or estimates on the current market or replacement value of your artwork.

Find online auctions for antiques and collectibles where you can buy and sell

Some online antique auctions only include items from a private seller or auction house, but many include areas for both buyers and sellers. If you're looking to buy, register for an account to bid on listings; if you want to sell antiques from your collection, register for a seller account.

I recommend: Playle’s Online Auctions brings buyers and sellers together to buy or sell their vintage postcards, stamps and other antiques and collectibles. Buyers can bid on thousands of auction items or buy store items instantly. Sellers can start their own auctions or store with low listing fees or take advantage of a dealer package for added savings. ETiqueMarket allows registered users to buy or sell antiques, collectibles, art, coins, stamps, books and jewelry via online auction or fixed price listings.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many websites with online auctions for collectibles and antiques also offer 'buy it now' options for those who don't want to wait until the auction ends to see if they're the winning bidder.