How AntiqueBot Authenticates Antiques
Antique detection using 78 signals, auction valuation, and appraisal recommendations.
AntiqueBot is LegacyLoop's antique authentication specialist. It uses 78 different signals to determine whether an item might be a valuable antique and estimates what it could fetch at auction. Here is how it works and what to look for.
How Detection Works: AntiqueBot runs automatically as part of every AI analysis. It evaluates your item across three categories of signals:
Keyword Signals: The AI description is scanned for terms associated with antiques — words like "patina," "dovetail joints," "hand-blown," "maker's mark," "sterling," "estate," and dozens more.
Brand and Maker Signals: AntiqueBot checks the identified maker against a database of known antique manufacturers and artisans. Brands like Tiffany, Roseville, Wedgwood, Stickley, and Haviland trigger higher antique scores.
Material and Construction Signals: Certain materials (solid wood, hand-forged iron, hand-painted porcelain, leaded glass) and construction methods (mortise and tenon, hand-stitching, blown glass) are strong indicators of age and craftsmanship.
The Antique Alert: If the combined score passes the threshold, an Antique Alert banner appears on your item page. This animated orange and gold gradient banner shows you the antique score, which signals were detected, and an estimated auction value range. It also offers a button to request a professional appraisal.
Auction Value Estimates: AntiqueBot estimates what the item might sell for at a reputable auction house. This is separate from the regular market price because auction buyers are often willing to pay a premium for authenticated antiques. The estimate includes a range (low to high) based on condition and rarity.
What to Do If You Get an Antique Alert:
- Review the signals — do they match what you know about the item?
- Consider uploading additional close-up photos of any markings, stamps, or signatures.
- If the auction estimate is significantly higher than the market price, consider requesting a professional appraisal (15 credits) before selling.
- For high-value antiques (estimated over $500), consider holding the item for auction rather than selling at market price.
Tip: Not every "antique" is valuable, and not every valuable item is old. AntiqueBot looks at craftsmanship and rarity, not just age. A well-made 1950s piece can be worth more than a worn-out 1850s piece.