Collector Support and Acquisition Guidance

At Annapolis Antiques, we curate cultural artifacts, prized Americana, maritime antiquities, and rare collectibles with total transparency. We believe high-end acquisitions require complete confidence and disciplined discretion along with first in class shipping standards. 

Real collectors want to know their sources are just as serious as them, and as collectors ourselves we will always strive to share information and further the art and collecting community.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse answers to common questions about our curation standards,  authentication, secure shipping, and collector services

How do you verify provenance and authenticate rare artifacts?

We employ rigorous provenance tracking, documenting each artifact's chain of custody through archival records, historical dealer ledgers, estate archives, and verified past auction catalogs. Additionally, our extensive nationwide network of pickers, specialty dealers, and institutions allows us to cross-reference previous ownership and contextual history directly at the source.

What condition inspection standards are applied to inventory?

Every artifact undergoes hands-on physical and structural evaluation. We closely analyze material integrity, joinery, wear patterns, casting marks, and patination to confirm it aligns precisely with its attributed period. All restoration history, minor repairs, and authentic aging characteristics are documented with honest disclosure.

What is your policy regarding returns and condition guarantees?

We offer a 10-day return window on non-damaged items starting from the day of arrival at your delivery address. Items must be returned in their original, unaltered condition and packaging. While buyers are responsible for return shipping, we never charge restocking fees. Every piece is backed by our full condition and authenticity guarantee.

How are delicate or oversized museum-grade pieces shipped?

We provide white-glove logistical care for every acquisition. Packages are shipped with full replacement value insurance and packaged in heavy-duty, double-walled corrugated boxes with professional-grade padded wrap, custom-cut foam bracing, and shock-absorbing insulation. For local Maryland collectors, private in-person pickup can also be arranged.

Can I arrange an in-person viewing or temporary hold?

No, at this time we are not offering personal appointments. 

Do you accept special sourcing requests or estate consignments?

We gladly accept custom collector wish lists and tap our trusted nationwide network to hunt down specific rare pieces on your behalf. Additionally, we partner with families and estates seeking professional, discreet assistance with appraisals and consignments of high-caliber historical collections.

Start Your Next Acquisition

Explore our  gallery of historic  artifacts and vintage collectibles