Not knowing what an item is—or whether it has value—is one of the most common challenges people face when handling estate contents, thrift-store finds, inherited objects, or miscellaneous household items. Most beginners guess blindly, use vague search terms, or overlook clues that would make identification simple.
DJR Expert Guide Series, Vol. 527 provides a clear, beginner-friendly, non-destructive workflow for researching any unknown item using basic observation, logical deduction, correct terminology, and reliable comparison tools. This guide works across antiques, collectibles, artwork, jewelry, tools, militaria, furniture, documents, technology, and general household items.
Inside this guide, you’ll learn how experts:
Identify materials and construction clues that reveal age and category
Locate maker marks, hallmarks, serial numbers, signatures, and labels
Determine the correct object category before researching value
Use precise terminology to eliminate guesswork and improve search accuracy
Perform visual comparison research using auctions, museum archives, and sold listings
Evaluate age using non-destructive indicators (patina, hardware, joinery, ink, paper, etc.)
Recognize reproduction red flags and misleading modern décor
Interpret real market value using completed sales—not asking prices
Know when to stop researching and seek expert appraisal
Apply a full 11-step workflow that works for almost every type of item
Whether you're cleaning out a home, reselling finds, managing an estate, or simply curious about an unfamiliar object, this guide gives you the structured approach needed to identify and research items confidently—without altering or damaging them.
Digital Download — PDF • 9 Pages • Instant Access
Not knowing what an item is—or whether it has value—is one of the most common challenges people face when handling estate contents, thrift-store finds, inherited objects, or miscellaneous household items. Most beginners guess blindly, use vague search terms, or overlook clues that would make identification simple.
DJR Expert Guide Series, Vol. 527 provides a clear, beginner-friendly, non-destructive workflow for researching any unknown item using basic observation, logical deduction, correct terminology, and reliable comparison tools. This guide works across antiques, collectibles, artwork, jewelry, tools, militaria, furniture, documents, technology, and general household items.
Inside this guide, you’ll learn how experts:
Identify materials and construction clues that reveal age and category
Locate maker marks, hallmarks, serial numbers, signatures, and labels
Determine the correct object category before researching value
Use precise terminology to eliminate guesswork and improve search accuracy
Perform visual comparison research using auctions, museum archives, and sold listings
Evaluate age using non-destructive indicators (patina, hardware, joinery, ink, paper, etc.)
Recognize reproduction red flags and misleading modern décor
Interpret real market value using completed sales—not asking prices
Know when to stop researching and seek expert appraisal
Apply a full 11-step workflow that works for almost every type of item
Whether you're cleaning out a home, reselling finds, managing an estate, or simply curious about an unfamiliar object, this guide gives you the structured approach needed to identify and research items confidently—without altering or damaging them.
Digital Download — PDF • 9 Pages • Instant Access
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