This Old Thing? - An Antique Appraisal Adventure with Jim Johnston - May 5

Who hasn’t been intrigued by something old... and who hasn’t stopped to wonder, ‘what’s it worth’?  On Sunday, May 5, 2024 from 1:00-5:00 PM, local expert, James C. “Jim” Johnston, will dazzle and inform the audience and those seeking knowledge about family heirlooms and garage sale finds alike with An Antique Appraisal Adventure with Jim Johnston.

Johnston, who has been in the antique and appraisal business for more than six decades, has a nearly limitless store of knowledge about all things old, with particular emphasis on Americana, Porcelain, Glass, Rare Books, Coins, Stamps and Pottery. His appraisals often come with the kind of fascinating context and anecdotes that make him – a lifelong educator and author -- much sought after, whether to please an auditorium audience or for the evaluation of a private collection.

Appraisals are ‘on-the-spot’ and oral and are $5 for the first appraisal and $3 for additional items, up to an event maximum of three items and $11.  The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Franklin Historical Museum, a 501(c) 3 non-profit that raises funds to benefit the Historical Museum. All proceeds benefit the museum. 

The Friends can accept cash or check.  There will also be an option to “watch at home” via Google Meets. To learn about payment options, how to participate virtually, or to reserve a contact alan.r.earls@gmail.com. Handicapped Access Available.

Mr. Johnston will preface the appraisal-day program with a discussion of what constitutes “Value”, or more appropriately “Range of Value”, when appraising an item of any sort. He will also discuss various factors reflected in an evaluation such as: the sociological factors, condition issues, rarity, and Adam Smith’s Rule of Supply and Demand as it effects the value of art, antiques, and collectibles in any time period. 

He will also discuss “Purpose” of evaluation such as: probate, inheritance, divorce, and insurance, as well as insurance evaluation and replacement value, with the idea of choosing a fearless appraiser with experience in dealing with insurance companies, and with “Court Experience” and experience in delivering “Expert Testimony.”

Mr. Johnston performs written appraisals by arrangement, starting at $125. 

Franklin Historical Museum is located at 80 West Central St, downtown Franklin, near the fire station. You can also visit the Historical Museum on the web at

http://franklinhistoricalmuseum.org/