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Rare Map & Atlas Consignment
Sotheby's Books, Manuscripts and Maps specialists present and sell newly discovered maps and atlases at auction each season. That intriguing old map gathering dust in your closet or the framed map that’s been in your family for generations might be worth far more than you imagine. It could be an important – and valuable – piece of history. When you are not sure of the value of the map or atlas you own or have inherited, Sotheby's offers an easy, confidential way to find out, “How much is my map worth?” Simply submit images and information about your map or atlas through our easy-to-use online estimate form today to find out whether it could be sold with Sotheby's.
Sotheby’s regularly presents some of the most historically significant maps from around the globe. We include maps and auctions in various auctions throughout the year that take place in London, New York, and Paris, as well as online. Our auctions feature examples by the world’s finest cartographers such as Mercator, Blaeu, Ortelius, Visscher, Verbiest, Speed, Mauro, Gastaldi, Huang, de Jode and Munster.
Find Out the Value of Your Map
Submit photos and information about your antique map or atlas and begin your complimentary estimate request.
Maps & Atlases Consigned with Sotheby's
Get Started with an Estimate
Get Started with an Estimate
Get an Estimate
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where should I sell my old map or atlas?Sotheby's has been selling maps and atlases since its founding in 1744, and our current-day specialists are distinguished experts in their field. When you submit your map for appraisal, you can be assured that our experts will provide you with the most accurate valuation based on their assessment of the international market. Our appraisal process is easy and confidential to ensure that you can quickly receive a map appraisal from our experts. When you are ready to sell, your dedicated specialist will help you navigate the auction consignment process to make it as seamless as possible.
- How does Sotheby's determine how much my map is worth?Sotheby's specialists have decades of experience in appraising and identifying antique maps made by famous cartographers. Even without a signature, Sotheby's specialists can sometimes attribute old maps to renowned map makers. Simply submit clear photographs of the front and back of your map or atlas and our specialists will carefully review the item and determine its value. Specialists consider its age, rarity, history of ownership, condition, maker and other factors.
- Can I sell my rare map online if I consign with Sotheby's?Yes, indeed. Sotheby’s Books and Manuscripts department invites participation in our online timed auctions. Past online selections have included cartography from distinguished private collections and an extraordinary copy of History of the Expedition under the Command of Captains Lewis and Clark in the original printed boards. When you submit your map for review by our specialists, they will consider it for sale in both online and live auctions.
More information on how to sell with Sotheby's
Sotheby’s is your best resource to sell a rare map, old map, antique map, world map, ancient map, vintage map, original map, printed map, atlas map, travel atlas, wall map, manuscript map. city map, regional map, country map, composite atlas, celestial atlas, commercial map, topographical map, portolan chart, panelled map, cartes à figures, engraved map, hand coloured map, color map or collection of maps from highly desirable areas such as North America, Japan, China, Singapore, West Indies, Malta and Cyprus by famous cartographers including Mercator, Blaeu, Ortelius, Visscher, Verbiest, Speed, Mauro, Gastaldi, Huang, de Jode and Munster that illustrate the art of wood block printing, line engraving, mezzotint engraving, aquatint engraving, stipple engraving, etching and ornamental cartouche on vellum, linen and paper.