The following seem like a very simple list of ways to get information, but they are the fastest, quickest and best places to find a "quick value". Free estimates are worth what you paid for them. Professsional Appraisals cost money. Never get an appraisal from someone who also has an interest from buying an object from you.

• Call a local Auction House and see if they know of a Dealer who specializes in that area.
• The phone book. You would be surpised at how many dealers are listed, and could be able to start you on your way.
• Price Guides. There are more of them out there then we can keep track of. They have good information even if your item is not specifically listed. More than likely your item is worth about the same. Pay attention to condition. It is very important.
• Visit your local dealers. Tell them that you are not interested in selling the item, but would like a rough appraisal. Be nice and most will help you if they can.
• The Library. Yep, remember that building? Before the internet was full of information, we had to start there. Always helpfull and still the largest source of great information
• Antique Related Publications. There are few things that can keep you informed of the auctions highlights, trends and events, as this. Maine Antique Digest is my personal favorite, but look for something in your own specialty. We are adding Publications into our AntiqueFindIt section.

American Institute for Conservation of Historic & Artistic Works (AIC) 1717 K Street, N.W., Suite 301 Washington, DC 20006 (202) 452-9545 FAX (202) 452-9328 Can provide referrals for art conservators.

American Society of Appraisers 535 Herndon Parkway Herndon, VA 22070 Or: PO Box 17265, Washington, DC 20041 (703) 478-2228 FAX (703) 742-8471 (800) ASA-VALU Can provide referrals for appraisers. Also sponsors the Appraisal Profession Online. It features online databases, interactive discussion and debate, Internet access, global electronic mail, information from numerous sources about appraisal-related issues, online product ordering and course registration, employment opportunities, etc.

Antique Appraisers Association 11361 Garden Grove Boulevard Garden Grove, CA 92643 Referral service for appraisers.

Antique Networking, Inc. 75 South High Street Dublin, OH 43017 (800) 400-8674 (614) 889-9773 FAX (614) 889-9984 E-Mail: antiqnet@ix.netcom.com Online database to network local, national, and international buyers and sellers: antique dealers and customers, brokers, appraisers, insurers, associations, auction houses, and repair/restoration shops.

Appraisers Asssociation of America
386 Park Avenue South, Suite 2000
New York NY 10016
Tel 212 889 5404 ext 11
Fax 212 889 5503
Email AAA1@rcn.com
The Association provides referrals for appraisers.

International Society of Appraisers 500 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1400 Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 661-1700 Provides referrals for appraisers.

Yesteryears Doll and Toy Museum Main and River Streets PO Box 609 Sandwich, MA 02563 (508) 888-1711 Identification and appraisals for old dolls and doll houses.

These are some of the resources we have found on the net to also help you.

• http://www.metiques.com They also offer a section where you can post an Item for a free appraisal
• www.abaa-booknet.com ABBA-The Antiquarian Booksellers' Association of America, list of dealers, show calendar, online catalogs, etc.
• http://www.appraisers.org Ameican Society Of Appraisers (ASA) Search for Appraisers
• www.afaol.com AFAOL American Fine Antiques Online
• www.maineantiquedigest.com Maine Antique Digest. My personal favorite.
• www.thebee.com/aweb/aa.htm Antiques & the Arts Weekly, The weekly antiques and art newspaper from Connecticut, sometimes known as The Newtown Bee.Very good.
• Antique Networking, Inc See middle column
• AIX.NET is a meeting place for personal property appraisers, collectors and individuals interested in professional appraisal services. AIX is international in scope, self-supporting and independent.
• One of a kind Antiques We have over 8,000 volumes of research material on hand. If you send us a clear 35mm photo of your object, $45.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope, we will send you back an appraisal of its value with all the relevant background material and information we can uncover.
• Here's one that looks like its free. NetValue Antiques.