Lockdown discoveries and clear-outs could bring you rich awards at auction as prices soar thanks to strong buyer demand from across the world.
Hansons Auctioneers relaunched its auctions online-only in May and achieved record-breaking results across all sectors including a £100,000 Historica sale and £33,000 for a Harry Potter first edition. The overall sales figure for May was £740,000.
Other top lots included a rare 2005 Omega watch which sold for £12,500 and a 1920s Art Deco figure group of jazz dancers by Paul Philippe which made £21,000. Gold prices sky-rocketed, too. For example, gold sovereigns were selling for £300 compared to £100 a year ago.
Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons, said: “The results were phenomenal and our sellers were delighted. Online auctions have a phenomenal global reach. For example, our May Fine Art Auction attracted 2,700 online bidders in 36 countries. Exchange rates, particularly against the American dollar, also make buying British attractive.”
With the market so buoyant, Hanson is now pulling out all the stops to help people turn unwanted items and lockdown discoveries into cash.
Charles said: “We have launched open air, safe valuations at our Etwall Auction Centre with social distancing and strict safety measures adhered to. People can drive in and consign safely. We also offer virtual valuations via email, Skype and WhatsApp and can offer private home visits to assess and consign objects.
Transparent Selling Fees
“After listening to customers, I have also formulated transparent selling fees with no hidden charges. Our seller’s tariff is a flat rate of 15% + VAT and includes insurance, lotting fees and photography.
“I hope we can play our part in getting the country moving again. We’re deeply aware of the need to help people clear homes and sell contents due to downsizing, a house move or for financial gain.”
Hansons staff are now available by appointment seven days a week and social distancing, protective equipment and sanitiser is part and parcel of valuations, collections and appointments in homes.
Entries are invited for all forthcoming sales including jewellery toys, coins, militaria, sports memorabilia, watches and more. Open air valuations are available Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm, and Sat, 9am-noon, at Etwall Auction Centre, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire, DE65 6LS. To find out more, call Charles Hanson on 07725 514855 or email [email protected].
