From Novice to Expert: How to Spot Value at Our Spring Collectors Auction
From Novice to Expert: How to Spot Value at Our Spring Collectors Auction
Edited by: Christian Answini | Senior Fine Art Specialist
Whether you're new to the world of auctions or a seasoned bidder, knowing how to spot value is the key to securing treasures—sometimes for less than you’d expect. With the variety in our Spring Auction, it’s a perfect moment to sharpen your eye and learn how to evaluate quality, recognize undervalued pieces, and understand the signals experts look for. Here’s how you can level up from novice to auction expert—using real examples from our current catalog.
1. Look for Craftsmanship Over Brand
When assessing decorative arts or furniture, names can be helpful—but don’t be fooled into thinking a lesser-known piece isn’t valuable. Instead, inspect the craftsmanship. Take our Italian Neo-Classical Style Side Chairs (Lot 7291), for example. While not tied to a marquee designer, these chairs feature exceptional carved detailing, gilt accents, and a period-appropriate form. This is the kind of lot where quality and condition speak louder than name recognition. Similarly, the Baker Lion Motif Cerule Bench (Lot 7290) is a piece that blends decorative charm with furniture pedigree. Baker is known for high-quality reproduction work, and savvy buyers often acquire such pieces at a fraction of their original cost.
Lot 7291 Italian Neo-Classical Style Side Chairs Lot 7290 Baker Lion Motif Cerule Bench
2. Undervalued Art Can Yield Big Rewards
Fine art is an area where connoisseurship pays off. Works by listed or academically exhibited artists may not have caught fire at auction yet—but that means they’re ripe for smart acquisitions. One standout is Bill Gallen's "El Salto Twilight" (Lot 7350), a serene oil painting by a contemporary artist who exhibits regularly in the Southwest. His work has been gaining attention from regional collectors. This lot presents a chance to collect at an accessible price point. Likewise, our Motke Blum mosaic (Lot 7351)—crafted for the Israel Ministry of Tourism—bridges cultural and artistic value. It’s original, thematic, and distinctive. An experienced eye sees value not only in the artist’s pedigree, but in the uniqueness of the object itself.
Lot 7350 Bill Gallen's "El Salto Twilight" Lot 7351 Motke Blum Mosaic
3. Recognize Historical Significance
Some lots gain value not just from their material or maker but from their historical relevance.A prime example is the World War II Short-Snorter Banknote (Lot 7256) dated D-Day +1, signed by military personnel. Collectors of WWII memorabilia prize these notes, especially when dated so closely to a major event. Provenance and date elevate this from souvenir to significant artifact. Similarly, the Silver Napkin Ring of WWII Hero William Edwin Hank (Lot 7255) offers a direct tie to an individual cited for valor. It’s not just silver—it’s history you can hold in your hand.
Lot 7256 WWII Short-Snorter Banknote Lot 7255 WWII Hero William Edwin Hank Silver Napkin Ring
4. Watch for Luxury in Unexpected Forms
Not all valuable items scream luxury—sometimes it’s a matter of material and finish. The Lalique Ondines Crystal Vase (Lot 7132), for instance, is an embodiment of Art Deco elegance. The frosted relief of nude water nymphs showcases Lalique’s mastery in glassmaking, and the name carries strong market cachet. A Lalique piece in good condition can often be secured for under retail at auction, making it a favorite category for collectors looking to grow their collections wisely.
Lot 7132 Lalique Ondines Crystal Vase
5. Seek Collectible Books and Ephemera
Books and paper goods are an area where novice bidders can sometimes spot great value others overlook. If you know what to look for—edition, condition, completeness—you can score high.
Our current offerings include:
- The Iliad of Homer translated by Mr. Pope – 1720 (Lot 7254): A six-volume set of one of the most celebrated translations of a classical epic.
- David Copperfield by Charles Dickens – 1st Edition (Lot 7252): First editions of major literary works are highly sought after.
- Geneva Bible Printed by Christopher Barker, 1589 (Lot 7251): A significant religious and historical artifact that appeals to rare book collectors and historians alike.
Lot 7253 - Lliad of Homer translated by Mr. Pope Lot 7252 David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
6. Think Like a Dealer
Dealers aren’t just buying what they love—they’re buying what will resell. If you're aiming to think more like a professional, seek out lots that offer either good margins or cross-category appeal.
A great example: the Original Woodstock Poster (Lot 7257A). Music memorabilia is hot, and authenticated posters from iconic cultural events have a built-in audience. It’s a small investment with strong emotional and market appeal.
Also consider pieces like the Maytag Toy Racer (Lot 7262)—a nostalgic item that bridges antique toys, industrial history, and Americana. It may go unnoticed by generalists, but a collector will see its charm and rarity.
Lot 7262 Maytag Toy Racer Lot 7257A Original Woodstock Poster
Final Tip: Do Your Homework
Before you bid, take the time to read lot descriptions closely, zoom in on photographs, and ask for condition reports when needed. Track recent sales of similar items and stay within your budget—but don’t be afraid to go for something special. Value isn’t always obvious at first glance. But when you train your eye to spot quality, context, and opportunity—you start bidding like an expert.
Collectors Online Auction
April 24th at 10:00 AM | alderferauction.com
Preview In-House | Hatfield, PA
Monday, April 21st | 9AM – 3PM
Tuesday, April 22nd | 9AM – 3PM
Wednesday, April 23rd | 9AM – 3PM
No appointment necessary
Condition Report Requests | alderferauction.com/condition-report
