Is it valuable? Personal Notes on Organizing Your Memorabilia
Our biggest question when it comes to memorabilia is whether it is valuable. I have faced this question myself and have found that there are a few extra steps that may make you feel more comfortable in finding the value of your keepsakes. It will definitely take extra time and extra steps, however here are some ideas to help you process this decision.
- Look online to find the item. My husband had a vase that he inherited from his mom that he knew was “valuable.” We found a duplicate for sale on ebay for $70. Once we knew a true value, then we made an educated decision on the next step.
- Check online for associations related to your memorabilia. When I sold my mom’s paperweight collection, I was able to connect with local paperweight associations. I made a list of the items and I listed it there. It took a while (two months) and found a buyer who appreciated this collection and would sell these to others who appreciate paperweights.
- Donate your items to a charity silent auction. If you are passionate about a cause, you will find the value of your items priceless in helping your cause reach a financial goal. After trying numerous ways to sell a silver plated tea set including Craigs List, Replacements and Ebay, I donated the set to Mothers Against Cancer (www.mothersagainstcancer.org.)
- Check online at ItsDeductibleOnline.com. This values items and is an easy way to track your charitable donations.
- Find experts who can help you make a good decision on value and find a purchaser. There are independent appraisers in many different fields, including art, to assist you. One connection for us led to the sale of a family painting.
Memorabilia can be overwhelming and emotional. All of these items we were ready to part with, especially knowing that these are not items our children would treasure. Decide if YOU love the keepsakes, and are not only keeping them for other reasons. If you are truly organizing your memorabilia, be sure to choose a way to honor and display your items. Needless to say, that is not in a smushed box in the garage or attic! Today I have 5 paperweights from Mom’s collection in a hutch in my dining room. I treasure them!
Wow, Ellen, I love the way you approached this subject!
I once worked with a client whose apartment was filled not only with her own belongings, but those of her father, who had recently passed away. Some of his personal keepsakes were quite large and definitely not something she would put on display on her own home, yet she felt she ought to keep them just because they had been important to him.
It’s a difficult realization, but you explain it in a very factual yet diplomatic way.
Thanks Janet! It is hard for people to connect to the memory, rather than the stuff. You can also remind them that sharing it with those who love that item is more valuable and important. I love your post and appreciate your sharing!