valuations & consultancy

Under the Michael G. Read brand we have been buying collections for nearly forty years and have amassed an extraordinary depth of knowledge across the majority of world stamps. Assessing collections, identifying where the value is (often held in a few key stamps) is our 'stock in trade'.

We put this knowledge at your disposal to offer the unique combination of an advisory and agency service. From dealers wishing to have an informed opinion on a soon-to-be-auctioned collection to the philatelist requiring a quality assessment on a certain stamp, Lancaster offers an unrivaled service. We can also help in advising typical bidding prices for specific material.

To non-UK bidders, who may not be familiar with British stamp auctions, we can provide an informed assessment of the particular auction house that will best serve your individual needs.

Assessments are currently limited to three London auction houses: Grosvenor, Cavendish and Argyll Etkin. We are looking to expand this service further to include more auction houses; other assessments can be covered with prior negotiation.

Assessments include both quality and value judgements. Instructions are required at least five days prior to the first day of viewing in order to give enough time to report back and allow bids to be provided, if deemed appropriate.

Non-UK clients must make formal bids via the agent representing them in their own country. However, we are happy to serve directly if you are not currently represented by an in-country agent.

For lower value (sub £100) stamps, we would recommend you contact our sister company, Saracen Stamps (www.saracenstamps.com). Saracen Stamps is one of the largest approval companies in the UK, holding stock of over one million stamps across 130 countries.

DISPOSING OF YOUR COLLECTION & ADVISING ON INHERITED COLLECTIONS

We also provide a unique service in the disposal of collections that you may wish to sell. With our in-depth knowledge of auction houses we will obtain the best price for you. We charge 5% on the hammer price in British auctions and 10% outside the UK. Please enquire for further details.