what to do with collection upon death

packs · #1 08-31-2021, 03:59 PM

Sell it now. I understand all of us would love to keep our collections to the bitter end, but why actually do it? We all live lives too. You're supposed to have fun while you can. You keep a collection for 40 years, I think you've honored it as much as you need to. Not to mention you can always rebuild on a smaller scale with items you like but aren't concerned with selling.

cubman1941 · #2 08-31-2021, 05:26 PM

I am in the same situation - my wife hasn't a clue and my kids and grandkids aren't really interested. I thought about the idea of selling it now but I enjoy the hunt and collecting too much. I have retired from everything so this is my pleasure. My thought is to have an auction companies name written down and have whomever is left contact them and have them come and get it all and sell it. I have everything in files on a flash drive that lists condition, current value and where to find it (I have a room with 8 standing bookshelves, an 8 footwall with bookshelves and two of the old style 8 ft cases). I also have a closet full of figures from Starting Line Up, etc. I am not sure I could really stand around and have someone come in and remove my 50 years of collecting. This way my heirs could enjoy the money my collection sells for (probably all get about a buck) and I can keep on doing my thing. Of course the only problem is how to get them to understand I still have some outstanding items coming in from PSA through Leon :>}

Kaneen · #3 08-31-2021, 05:28 PM

Very sorry to hear you are struggling with Covid...Praying for your full and speedy recovery!

ocjack · #4 08-31-2021, 05:46 PM

Hope you have a complete recovery.

I sold the bulk of my 50-year collection several years ago for two reasons: first, we live in an area that is periodically threatened with fires. We were on mandatory evacuation a few years ago. And while most key items are in safe deposit boxes, all sets and the like were in the house.

Second, and most important - while my wife did understand that relative values of my collection, I didn't want to leave her the burden of having to deal with auction houses or other dealers. I haven't been active as a collector for many years and frankly, I don't have a close friend who could have helped her. And while calling an auction house is a good idea, remember they may not want all of your collection for their auctions. So your wife is still left with having to deal with some portion of your collection.

My suggestion is to either arrange with someone you trust to assume responsibility for your collection's sale or start to sell those items that may not be "auction" material.

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