My old friend Larry passed away back in April and they had an auction this past Saturday. Probably one of the most expensive local auctions (outside of galleries) that I’ve ever attended. There were two pieces of local pottery that exceeded estimations. The stoneware pot with blue fetched $6200 while the red ware brought $3600. Many items brought 10x estimates and some went through the roof. (A set of local license plate toppers brought $5000).

Larry’s wife is in declining health so I hope the funds ensure that she has a good quality of life. I did manage to get a few things including a nice floor lamp and a few pieces of oak furniture.

Good for her
Was that auction on line also??

All the online estate auctions around here are all bringing very high prices especially with guns involved auctions do not equal bargains anymore and most of them have 10-15 percent buyers premium added on after your purchase

Good for her! That lamp is very nice! Congrats!

I buy and sell quite a few antiques. I am often asked if I do a lot of auctions and my answer is always "No". I have been at this for quite a long time and have seen auctions go from a place to get some great items at a good price to a competition to show who can spend the most on a particular item, regardless of its true value. People tend to get caught up in the heat of the moment and drive the prices way too high.

I quit doing auctions and instead go to estate sales, some garage sales, etc. There are still good buys to be made. I always try to engage the sellers in conversation that can sometimes open up more doors to more good buys.

Moosetrot

you want a deal on auction items , look for short handled shovels. no one bids up short handled shovels , it looks liek a sore back just looking at it