Formal Insurance Appraisals For Musical Instruments. Specialized double reed expertise – over 40 years of experience.
Insurance appraisals are used for determining fair market value for selling, insurance replacement valuation, estate evaluations, legal proceedings, tax valuations for donations, and any situation that requires a professional determination of value. Our appraisals are recognized by all major insurance carriers. For professional coverage, we recommend Clarion Insurance . If you are not accepting payment for playing, your homeowners insurance may provide adequate coverage.
THE EASIEST METHOD: Email Appraisal
How It Works:
Send an email to brian@charlesmusic.com with the following information:
- Instrument details: Serial number, age, model, and brand. If some information is unknown, provide as much as you can.
- Special features: Describe any unique elements—extra keys, bocals, inscriptions, or damage. For bocals, include the maker, model(s), and metal type.
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Case details: If possible, include the brand name of the case and case cover.
Photos to Include:
- At least one clear photo of the serial number.
- At least one clear, focused photo of the instrument in its case, with the entire case visible in the frame. Please do not crop or cut off the edges—ensure the case is shown from end to end against a plain background.
- Photos of any bocals and other accessories of importance.
- Additional photos are welcome and encouraged.
Cost for Email Appraisal:
- $125.00 per instrument
- After the appraisal is completed, we’ll send you a PayPal invoice (payable with any major credit card—no PayPal account needed).
- Once payment is received, you’ll receive a .pdf copy of the appraisal by email.
- We retain the original in .pdf format at our shop.
- Upon request, we’ll also mail two printed copies at no extra cost.
We Also Offer In Person Appraisals:
You’re welcome to bring your instrument(s) to our shop for an in-person evaluation. In some cases, we can travel to your location for an additional travel fee.
- Appraisals are typically completed within 72 hours.
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Results can be sent by email or mailed to your physical address.
Cost:
- $125.00 per instrument
- Includes an emailed .pdf and, upon request, two printed copies at no extra charge
- We also retain the original in .pdf format at our shop
Here’s an example of one of our appraisals:
