Our confidence score reflects how well-supported a valuation is by real market evidence. It's not a guarantee — it's a measure of how much data backs our estimate. Higher confidence means more direct market precedent and stronger identification. Lower confidence means more uncertainty remains.
Think of it like a weather forecast: 90% confidence means the data strongly supports this range. 50% means conditions are murkier — the range is wider and a professional appraisal may be worthwhile.
| Score | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 90–100% | 3+ direct comps from strong market sources for the same maker, item type, era/model, and condition |
| 70–89% | 2+ good comps with minor differences (size, condition, configuration, materials, or variant details) |
| 50–69% | Comps exist, but they are broader category matches or comparable variants rather than item-specific |
| <50% | Few reliable comps; estimate relies more on broader market patterns and available evidence |
| Score | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 90–100% | Maker's mark confirmed, era established, form and materials verified |
| 70–89% | Strong attribution with minor ambiguity (e.g., era within a 50-year range) |
| 50–69% | Multiple plausible attributions with meaningfully different values |
| <50% | Identification uncertain; could be several very different things |
| Score | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 90–100% | Key diagnostic photos (base, marks, interior, macro), weight, measurements, physical tests |
| 70–89% | Good photos but missing 1–2 key diagnostics |
| 50–69% | Basic photos only, limited physical evidence |
| <50% | Single photo, no physical evidence |
Confidence describes how well-supported the estimate is, not whether professional appraisal is optional. For any important decision, especially involving valuable items, consult a qualified appraiser before buying, selling, insuring, donating, or relying on a price range.
You can improve your report's confidence by providing more evidence:
- Diagnostic photos — base/marks, interior, macro of surface texture, gilded areas
- Measurements and approximate weight
- Physical test results — magnet test, fingernail tap, removable parts
- Provenance information — receipts, family history, dealer labels, exhibition stickers
- Answering guided questions during the appraisal process
- Confidence is not a guarantee of sale price. Results vary by venue, channel, timing, and buyer pool.
- Both Type I and Type II errors are possible: a report can overstate or understate value when evidence is incomplete, attribution shifts, or condition issues are not fully visible.
- Our reports do not constitute formal appraisals. Consult a qualified professional, especially for valuable items or decisions involving insurance, tax, estates, donation, or sale.
- Scores do not account for condition issues not visible in photos (internal damage, restoration, hidden repairs).