METHODS OF SALE

Public auction, which we recommend as the most reliable way to realise the most from a philatelic property or estate, is only one of several methods of sale possible if the material is suitable, or circumstances warrant. Consider the following:

• PUBLIC AUCTION: material is described, photographed and presented in full colour catalogues to a world-wide mailing list and over the internet. A commission (which can be negotiated) is charged to the seller as well as the buyer; these commissions cover all costs of describing, catalogue production, accounting and overhead. Lots which remain unsold can be re-offered or bought from you at an agreed price. An accounting is prepared and payment is made within 42 days after the auction (with certain exceptions) and an advance can often be obtained by the vendor at the time of consignment. We have been in the auction business for 40 years (30 in Switzerland), through changes in marketplace tastes and fashions, so we know the realities as well as the trends within the business and the marketplace. Thus, we can choose the best way to present your material to maximise your results - single lots plus a combination of medium and large lots, rarities presented in our special Rarities auction, or the entire property offered intact (which often brings more than the potential sum of the parts!). And of course, we will consult with you to plan the intelligent promotion and presentation of your collection, as your "reliable partner".

• PRIVATE TREATY: a single item, a collection or other holding can be offered for direct sale to our many clients at a fixed price. Advantage: often a transaction can be completed faster than through public auction, at a comparable price. Disadvantage: the fixed price precludes any possible gains from competition among bidders. A related method, to offer a property "for sale by tender", invites bids starting with a stated minimum, and is open for tenders for a limited time.

• OUTRIGHT SALE: every year, we arrange the purchase, for immediate payment, of substantial amounts of single items, collections and dealer stocks. Advantage: immediate payment, no wait for auction results, less paperwork. Disadvantage: reduced price (which is why we don't recommend selling to your favorite dealer unless you have to). Our marketplace experience often enables us to get you more than other firms can, though we earn more than we would in auction commissions alone.

• BROKERED SALE: perhaps you have a property that is ideal for a specific client. We have long experience in brokering substantial lots and key individual items with a maximum of discretion for all parties involved.

Questions? Please feel free to contact us with no obligation on your part, or see the list of frequently asked questions on this site. Hope to hear from you soon!

Follow the links below to learn more about options open to you as a vendor

[Contact us about your property] 

[Read answers to frequently asked questions about the sale process]