Appraisals

We have been contacted many times regarding appraisals for fire and theft losses. Most insurance companies will accept the prices listed on our web site, and several companies have contacted me about prices of nutcrackers not listed there. We do have a list of retired nutcrackers that we have in the store in addition to those listed on the web site. I do not know of a professional appraiser who is more knowledgeable in nutcracker prices, but would be interested in having names for reference if any are available.

For your insurance, you will want to list your nutcrackers by replacement cost. For your records you will want to keep pertinent information such as brand, condition, size, and current price. If the box is considered, such as Steinbach, you will want to state that you have the original box.

I suggest that you consult with your insurance agent. Here is a company that handles only insurance for collectibles, called Collectibles Insurance Agency. This company can be reached toll free at 1-888-837-9637, Their address is P.O. Box 1200, Westminster, MD 21158. You can look them up on the web at: www.collectinsure.com.

You would be amazed at the number of calls we get for appraisals because of fire or other damage. Who will be inheriting your collection? If you are older, like myself, you may want to have a chat with your children if you intend to amass a huge collection. Perhaps they will have some good ideas that you will want to consider.