How Can I Get My Art Appraised for Free?

Introduction

One of the most common searches collectors make is: “How can I get my art appraised for free?” It’s an understandable question, but when it comes to fine art, a free appraisal is rarely a credible appraisal in the eyes of the IRS or Insurance companies.

At Mercer Contemporary, we provide USPAP-certified appraisals accredited by the Appraisers Association of America (AAA). These reports are credible, defensible, and accepted by insurers, attorneys, and the IRS. Here’s what you should know if you’re considering a “free appraisal”.

1. What Do Free Appraisals Usually Mean?

“Free appraisals” are often:

Auction House Estimates – quick valuations intended to secure consignments for sale, not formal reports.
Gallery Opinions – dealers may suggest a value based on what they would sell the work for, but these are not independent or impartial.
Online Appraisal Tools – algorithmic estimates that lack context, expertise, and credibility.

While these can give a general sense of value, they are not recognized for insurance, estate, or tax purposes.

2. Why Free Appraisals Aren’t Enough

Free valuations typically:

Do not meet USPAP standards.
Are not accepted by insurers, attorneys, or the IRS.
May be biased, especially if the party benefits from buying or selling the work.
Lack the detailed research, provenance verification, and comparables that make an appraisal credible.

3. When Do You Need a Certified Appraisal?

Certified appraisals are required for:

Insurance coverage – replacement value in case of loss or damage.
Estate planning and probate – fair market value for IRS filings.
Charitable donations – IRS-compliant valuations for gifts to museums or nonprofits.
Collection management – formal documentation to protect assets.

Anything less than certified will not withstand scrutiny.

4. What a Professional Appraisal Provides

A professional, paid appraisal includes:

Full USPAP-compliant documentation.
Detailed descriptions and photographs of the work.
Provenance and ownership history.
Comparable sales analysis and market research.
Final opinion of value signed by a certified appraiser.

At Mercer Contemporary, we also consult with subject matter experts when appropriate – ensuring reports are informed by both market data and specialized knowledge.

5. The Cost of “Free” vs. the Value of Expertise

While free estimates may seem attractive, relying on them for serious purposes can be costly. Inaccurate or unrecognized valuations may lead to:

Underinsurance – leaving you vulnerable in the event of loss.
Overpayment of taxes – if estate filings are challenged.
Legal complications – if a report does not meet the required standards.

By contrast, a certified appraisal safeguards your collection, estate, and legacy.

Conclusion

So, can you get your art appraised for free? Yes – but only in the most limited sense. Free appraisals can give you a ballpark idea of value, but they do not provide the rigor, credibility, or recognition that a certified appraisal offers.

For insurance, estate, or donation purposes, only a USPAP-certified, AAA-accredited appraiser can deliver valuations that stand up to scrutiny.

Mercer Contemporary offers fine art appraisal, art advisory, and legacy planning services for collectors across the U.S. and internationally. To arrange a consultation with a certified appraiser, please contact us.