What is the best way to sell a lifetime collection?

[MelissaNC]

Hi There,
My Dad passed away last year and we need to sell his collection of North American Indian Artifacts. There are approximately 4,000 pieces, mostly points, but axes, pendants and a little bit of pottery as well. He has some that he paid $2,500 to $5,000 for at auctions, and some that he found or were given to him that he valued at a dollar. He has some arranged in frames. What is your advice on the best way to approach selling the collection? Is it best to sell it as a whole, use an auction company, approach private buyers, sell them closer to where they were found, set up tables at shows? My Dad has everything well documented, but we have very, very limited knowledge ourselves. Any advice would be appreciated. What instructions have you given your heirs (please do!).
Thanks!

 

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[davej]

Sorry for your loss. You already have good advice, but I will add that Auctions are not cheap. Since you have an idea of value, it took a long time to build the collection, I would sell it in pieces and use a couple different areas to sell it,if you're not in a hurry.

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[dts52]

I'm sorry for your loss,I know how difficult it can be. Welcome to the site, you've gotten some great advice already. Please beware of dishonest people who may try to take advantage of you during a time of grieving. I wish you the best.
dts

 

[rock]

Take the collection to a artifact show. Most of the collectors that sit on the tables will be interested in those. Go the the nicest table or ask who is in charge of the show. After you find out who is in charge as him or her who would be willing to make the best offer if you wish to sell it all at once. You can get more by piecing them out more than all at once.