At Catawiki, we auction a wide selection of authentic antique and modern silver and gold objects which are functional, decorative or have an artistic or historical importance.
We focus on objects that are hard to find and appealing to passionate silver and gold enthusiasts. Every submission is carefully reviewed by our experts to ensure high quality and a great buying experience.
Follow these guidelines to maximise your chances of a successful sale.
What we accept
We’re looking for authentic, high-quality silver and gold objects that appeal to passionate collectors. To be accepted, your object must:
- Made of silver or gold between 1000 and 1900 (for antique silver) or post-1850 (for international silver)
- Be hallmarked or tested if unmarked. Note: minimum accepted fineness for silver is 750/1000.
- Be rare or collectible, authentic and in good condition
- Meet the minimum expected value of €75
(You can combine objects in one submission to meet this threshold)
Accepted object types include:
Antique silver
Functional and decorative objects
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Tableware
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Miscellaneous collectables
Religious objects
International silver (post-1850)
Functional and decorative objects
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Tableware
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Miscellaneous collectables
Religious objects
- Silver tableware
- Cutlery sets
- Candlesticks
- Dishes, trays, baskets
- Flatware
- Tureens
- Condiment sets, mustard pots, sauce boats
- Cruet stands
- Coffee and tea sets
- Sugar casters
- Biscuit boxes
What increases your chances of approval:
- Western silver and gold objects, in particular from Europe, or hallmarked objects from Asia and the Middle East
- Antique silver from 16th to 19th century
- Pieces of art or objects of historical importance
What we do not accept
To keep our auctions high-quality and trustworthy, we do not accept:
- Silver-plated objects
- Unmarked, untested or low-grade silver (below minimum accepted fineness of 750/1000)
- Uncleaned or poorly presented objects
- Objects in poor condition (unless rare and valuable)
- Grouped submissions of unrelated objects
- CITES non-compliant objects, e.g. objects made after 1900 containing elephant ivory
- Objects with false hallmarks or raised ‘800’ marks
- Low-value objects like teaspoons, napkin rings (1-2 pcs), ashtrays
📌 Examples of rejected objects:
- Silver with raised '800' marks
- Modern generic figurines without value or brand
- Objects under melt value with unrealistic reserve pricing
- Torah pointers with fake antique Russian marks, objects with false or cast hallmarks, low-fineness or untested silver.
Getting your submission ready
1. Fill in all the details and write a clear description
When you submit an object, you’ll see fields to guide you in providing the right information, e.g. type of object, condition, etc. These fields ensure your listing is clear, searchable, and easy for bidders to understand.
Please also use the object description field to share:
- Unique features or notable history of the object
- What is included/not included (e.g. packaging, accessories)
- Where the object came from/how it was obtained
- If the object has any flaws or signs of wear (e.g. scratches, fading, marks)
- Type of object, material (including fineness), artist/maker, country, style, and production period
- Dimensions and weight (gross/net where applicable)
- Condition (mention wear, dents, repairs)
- Include hallmark details or test confirmation
Tip: The more detail you provide, the easier it is for bidders to understand the value of your object – and the more likely it is to sell. Find here more tips on how to write a clear, accurate description.
2. Great photos matter
Photos are the first thing bidders see – so make them count! We recommend including high-quality images that clearly show the condition and details of your object. This helps bidders make informed decisions and increases your chances of a successful sale.
Your photos should include:
For all submissions:
- Front, back, top, bottom, and side views
- Hallmarks and signatures
- Close-ups of important features
- Any signs of damage or repair
For grouped submissions:
- Group photos and individual shots
Tip: Avoid photos with people, selfies, or screenshots. Use a neutral background (white or black), avoid low-quality or stock images, and aim for natural lighting. Find here more tips on how to take professional photos.
3. Additional proof of authenticity
We pay extra attention to ensure authenticity of high-value objects and exclusive to protect bidders and ensure a trustworthy marketplace.
For high-value objects (€5000+):
We may request additional verification before approval:
✔ High-resolution images of details
✔ Certificates, receipts or expert reports
✔ Proof of ownership or provenance
📌 Examples of high-value objects:
- Branded objects (e.g. Buccellati), religious silver, hallmarked 19th-century European silver.
- Silver deer sculpture (sold for €10,350)
- Fratelli Lisi centerpiece (€8,000)
- Georg Jensen & Tiffany objects
For exclusive, rare, limited-edition objects:
✔ Only authenticated signatures or markings are accepted
Must be verified by the original producer or a reputable third party
✔ Other proof may be accepted at our discretion (e.g., photos of signing event)
X No unverified signatures or limited markings without authentication
4. Other requirements
- If your object contains materials regulated by CITES (e.g. ivory, tortoiseshell), check if certification is needed. Visit www.speciesplus.net or consult your account manager.
- For high-value objects (€10,000+) that are over 200 years old and provided by sellers outside of the EU you must provide either an export licence or importer statement as per recent EU Import regulations for Cultural Heritage.
Ready to sell? List your silver and gold decor today
Selling with us is free – commission is only applied if your object sells.
Follow these guidelines to maximise your chances of success.
Register as a seller and submit your silver and gold decor for auction now.