When you need a licensed appraiser

You want to understand roughly what a collection is worth, decide whether to insure it, split common firearms among heirs who agree, or prepare before speaking to a dealer or attorney.

The estate may owe federal estate tax, you plan a charitable donation that needs a qualified appraisal, the collection includes rare or high-value pieces, heirs disagree about value, or your attorney, insurer or the court asks for one.

In these cases an in-person inspection by a credentialed appraiser is usually expected. Ask what credential and report standard the requesting party needs before you hire anyone.

Look for a recognised credential, documented firearms experience and a written report that explains the method used. Proofmark's verified appraisers directory lists reviewers whose credentials we have checked; verification confirms the credential, not the outcome of any particular appraisal.