I'm considering using one of the larger auction houses to move a relative's collections of worldwide stamps and coins. I just don't have the time or energy to sort material, get current catalogue values, scan, and post them for sale here or elsewhere. We're talking about maybe 4 or 5 cartons of stuff.

I've looked at a couple of these websites and read their consignment terms but I'd like a personal review if you've used these consignment services. Is there one you'd recommend over another and why?

Thanks.
Peter

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re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

Regency is affiliated with Stanley Gibbons.

I have dealt with them as a buyer in an auction (the only auction where I paid a buyer's commission). My dealing with them was a good experience.

Have you thought about selling everything intact to a dealer? You'd probably net about the same amount and get the money quicker through a direct sale. You could contact a few of those that advertise and get bids from them. Take the highest offer, if you want. If you don't like the offers, then consider the auction house.

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TheBlueDude

re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

I to have purchased from Regency both times have been positive experience's. Try Spink and Sons New York. I believe that Andrew from the old stampwants is still employed by them in London. You might want to try and contact him through them just for some info.

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re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

It seems to me that you would realize more, or at least have the chance of realizing more, through auctions than through a dealer. Wouldn't dealer's give you a much lower quote for they have to re-sell your material, whereas on consignment auctions, you get what it sells for, minus the commission? I don't have selling experience with either so I'm anxious to hear if anyone has done one or both.

Ross, thanks for that heads up about Andrew too.

Peter

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re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

With an auction, you're looking at a crap shoot if you don't have anything really big to offer. When you get done with the final price, how much under catalog, and then the commission, you may have the same or a little bit more than if you sold it all outright. If you have a good collection, it still doesn't hurt to get bids from buyers. Gives you an idea of its worth and then you can decide if you want to try it through an auction.

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re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

Thanks to all who replied; this is very helpful. Part of what I'm trying to avoid is having to catalogue or even sort through these. Maybe this is the source of my "the hobby is dying" post elsewhere, as it feels overwhelming as I end up with my older relatives' collections to move, being the only family member (among 40 cousins!) who is a collector.

I will check out the next regional bourse here and see if I can get any dealers interested in some of the material.

Cheers,
Peter

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re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

Thanks Les; you're right, but I'll be out of town for that one. Maybe the one in the Spring.

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re: Anyone use Regency or similar auction house consignment services?

Thanks Charlie. I've actually had one member mail me to suggest something similar.

Cheers,
Peter

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