Written by Gigi Starr • Updated August 04, 2017
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Furs are definitely some of the most valuable items in a luxury wardrobe. In order to figure out the monetary value of a vintage fur coat, it must be appraised. During this process, different aspects of a fur garment are examined and tallied in order to determine actual and future resale value. An appraiser may also advise the owner about repairs or restyling, as well as any tips for longer garment life.
Realize that furs lose a good amount of value over time, and that a vintage piece probably has more value as a family heirloom than as a luxury item.
Decide what you want the final outcome to be. You may want a cash payment or a newly styled coat. Depending on what you're looking for, a furrier will adjust the appraisal accordingly. In other words, you'll hear a higher worth for a potential restyling than for a cash deal. Consider donating the fur to charity or trading it in for a new piece rather than selling it outright. The trade-in value, value as a tax donation or the appraised value is generally higher than resale value.
After examining all options, call up a fur store and make an appointment for an appraisal. These services cost between $25 and $50, but a dealer may waive the price for exchanges. When discussing the piece, be honest about its history. Information on wear, storage and age greatly affect the value, and appraisers frown on misinformation.
Alternatively, ship your coat to the appraiser. Contact them first. They'll ask a series of questions about the coat. If the answers are right, they'll request that the piece be shipped out for physical inspection. Since customer information is notoriously wrong, most appraisers resist giving preliminary numbers over the phone or internet.
Get a second opinion in order to know the truest valuation. One shop may price more conservatively than another, so it pays to go to more than one expert.
Writer Bio
Gigi Starr is a freelance fashion writer. She previously served as the blog editor for a major online fashion blog and has more than a decade of backstage experience in the beauty and high fashion industries. She has worked for businesses like an internationally renowned theatrical touring company and events such as the Mercedes-Benz N.Y.C. Fashion Week.
FAQs
If you plan to sell the coat yourself, obtaining an appraisal is highly recommended: Determining the value of a garment really requires an inspection by a fur appraiser to determine its current market value. Simply locate a professional furrier (either in your local area or online) to do this on your behalf.
How do I find out what my fur coat is worth? ›
Seeking appraisal
An inspection by an appraiser will surely lead to the most accurate estimate of its current market value and set you up for success in determining the worth of your coat.
What fur is worth the most money? ›
Russian sable is still the most prized and expensive fur in the world for its legendary silky quality, rarity and light weight. A little sable jacket starts at about $16,000 and a top quality silvery coat can run upward of $150,000.
Can you sell old real fur coats? ›
There are various websites where you can list used faur coats including eBay, Depop and Vinted. But also check out these alternatives. There are specific websites that specialise in buying and selling fur coats which are also worth a try. One example is The Vintage HQ.
How can you tell if a vintage fur coat is real? ›
The Look Test
Real fur usually consists of several layers of thin, almost curled hair that form a thick wool through which longer hair extends. The hair is still attached to the leather. Fake fur usually has a relatively simple structure, and each hair is usually the same length or even the same colour.
Do old mink coats have any value? ›
The value of a vintage mink coat depends on a variety of factors, including the condition, size, brand and quality. A small mink coat could sell for under $300 while a top designer coat could sell for over $10,000.
Are fur coats illegal? ›
Yes, in 2021 Israel became the first country in the world to ban real fur sales. In the United States, California became the first US state to ban the sale of fur in 2019 (the ban came into effect in January 2023) following similar bans in cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Berkeley and West Hollywood.
What can I do with vintage fur coats? ›
Donate to an animal shelter
Many animal shelters and wildlife rehabilitation centres accept donations of second hand coats. This makes another way to turn an old fur coat into a tool for helping animals. These fur jackets are used to line crates and create snuggly beds to keep our furry friends warm and snug.
How to sell a fur coat? ›
Selling Your Coat Through Consignment
You can choose a local shop or an online consignment shop. Do an Internet search to find retailers that specialize in selling furs by consignment. If you can't find a specialty shop, choose one that simply sells furs in addition to other items. Review the consignment contract.
Who buys the most fur? ›
Chinese consumers are the world's biggest buyers of fur, but some are beginning to ask questions and rethink their support of the trade, according to an exclusive Vogue Business survey.
Wearing and loving vintage fur, taking care of it, shows more respect to the animal than throwing it out. It's not the same as buying new.
Can you sell a fur coat at a pawn shop? ›
Well cared for, clean fur coats and leather jackets that have been properly stored and are free of stains or rips are going to sell. Only bring coats and jackets that are in good condition to pawn.
Are fur coats an investment? ›
Although furs can cost a lot of money, they are also a great investment to make because some of them will increase in value. Even if your coat doesn't increase in value, it will maintain its resale value. If you don't sell, the coat will last a long time, often allowing you to pass it on to someone else in your family.
What is the lifespan of a fur coat? ›
Although the longevity of fur varies from one type to another, a good quality mink coat, with proper care (storage and cleaning every year) can last up to 20 years or more.
Is a mink coat worth anything? ›
Mink coat values can vary widely depending on style, condition, pedigree, and workmanship. A small mink stole may sell at auction for under $100 while vintage mink coats by top designers can go for well over $10,000.
Does fur go bad? ›
When exposed to air, fur can go stale. Some pelts can also develop a yellowish tinge that degrades the quality of the fur. Beetles, moths and other bugs can destroy the pelts, as can mice and other rodents. Improper moisture conditions can cause mold growth, which can ruin furs as well.
Do fur coats have labels? ›
If you want to know if the fur is also real, you can also check the brand and the labels on the coat. Some brands are known to have produced and released fur collections at some point—inform yourself and do some research on whether the piece is accurate and authentic. Another label to look for is the inside label.
How much did a mink coat cost in 1960? ›
While today a mink coat can cost upwards of $10,000, in 1960 they were much more affordable. In fact, a good quality mink coat would have cost around $1,500 – which is equivalent to around $12,000 today.
