The 2018 antique roadshow schedule brought valuation events to cities across the country, connecting collectors with expert appraisers. This calendar highlighted regional appearances, ticketed screenings, and guidance for preparing items for on-the-spot evaluation.
Below is a structured overview of the tour routing, venue types, and typical appraisal categories featured during the 2018 season.
| City | Venue | Date | Appraisal Categories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | Marriott Copley Place | March 3 | Furniture, Jewelry, Prints |
| Chicago | Hyatt Regency McCormick | March 10 | Photographs, Costume, Asian Export |
| Houston | George R. Brown Convention Center | March 24 | American Furniture, Folk Art, Ceramics |
| Los Angeles | Los Angeles Convention Center | April 7 | Silver, Glass, Toys & Costume |
| New York | Pier 94 | April 14 | Paintings, Jewelry, Political Campaign |
Preparing Your Items for the Roadshow
Appraisers emphasized that documentation and condition reports significantly influence the accuracy of on-site valuations. Owners were encouraged to bring purchase receipts, conservation notes, and clear photographs of each item.
Proper packing reduced the risk of damage during transport and allowed specialists to focus on material analysis rather than handling concerns. Soft textiles required acid-free tissue, while ceramics needed customized cushioning to prevent vibration-related flaws.
Regional Tour Stops and Ticket Information
The itinerary prioritized major metropolitan areas with high collector density, using timed tickets to manage crowd flow. Early arrival improved access to popular appraisal slots, especially for fragile or high-value categories.
Local historical societies sometimes co-hosted events, offering educational segments on regional manufacturing trends and provenance research. These community partnerships helped contextualize individual objects within broader trade histories.
Expert Insights on Common Collectibles
Furniture and Decorative Arts
Specialists looked for joinery techniques, maker labels, and period-correct hardware to support authentication and place pieces within production timelines.
Photographs and Prints
Condition issues such as fading, foxing, and previous repairs were carefully documented, as these factors directly affected market value and conservation planning.
Navigating the 2018 Schedule for Collectors and Enthusiasts
Reviewing each venue in advance allowed visitors to target specific appraisal categories and coordinate travel between cities efficiently.
- Check official announcements for any schedule updates or new venue additions before departure.
- Contact local organizers to confirm ticketing methods, arrival procedures, and item limits per person.
- Document each object with dated photographs and condition notes to track changes over time.
- Use appraisal outcomes to inform insurance coverage levels and future acquisition decisions.
- Follow ethical guidelines when buying or selling, prioritizing transparent provenance and fair market practices.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I know if my item is appraised correctly at the event?
The specialists review visible condition, construction, and provenance markers, then provide a verbal summary with market context to help you understand the valuation.
Can I leave items for additional research after the roadshow visit?
On-site screenings are designed for immediate feedback; written follow-up analyses are typically arranged through affiliated appraisal services after the event.
What documentation should I bring for electronics and mechanical devices?
Original manuals, service records, and photographs of unique markings help experts verify originality and assess functionality when demonstrating operation. Tickets are generally non-refundable, but event staff may accommodate transfer requests depending on availability and venue capacity limits.