Philosophy

I sell historical objects stressing history and provenance. With a quarter-century of collecting experience and experience in the preservation of historical objects, including real estate, my philosophy evolved from the mere collection of objects to one stressing real identity and provenance. Thus, as I evolve from collector to seller, I continue to follow the adage that assertion made can be assertion proved.

I believe the emphasis of provenance in collecting artifacts ensures not only encounters with material new to the marketplace, but limits the risks of fakery and other such fraud. Anyone can be fooled, but longstanding provable pedigrees have helped make my collected objects enjoyable and sound investments. The emphasis on such provenance also is consistent with the philosophy that the most valuable collections convey historical experiences in a social sense, and not what my friend Bob Krick calls “…thread-count and tungsten-alloy-level specialties.”

Just as I have collected what I enjoy, I will purchase and sell with my own tastes in mind. I will continue to be a fixture at shows and other events and believe that my displays should convey educational themes related to historical events and personalities, perhaps to my detriment in actually selling artifacts. I still consider myself primarily historian, not marketer.

Terms

I am generally agreeable to businesslike negotiations. In order to make the transactions beneficial to both parties, objects may be marked sold on a provisional basis with a deposit of 20%. The balance may be paid in 60 days. Generally, verbal intentions may hold an object for three days pending deposit. If shipping is required, charges for the actual shipping amount via USPS, UPS or other common carrier charges will be added.

Otterburn Antiques, LLC is a registered dealer for sales tax purposes. Virginia nonexempt sales tax will be collected at the applicable Virginia rate (5%).

Items are guaranteed as described until the end of time (or at least until the end of my time). Refunds will be provided if objects are returned in condition identical to the time of its sale. Reasonable time will be provided for examination and approval.

Objects are sold as collectible objects and are not intended for actual use (as in the case of antique firearms).

Otterburn Antiques, LLC

Russell Hicks