Giving antique ivory to charity? Can't 'sell' on Ebay.

Norma_Desmond

I was going to put this on the charities board, but this gets more 'hits'.
I've got an antique ivory bracelet that belonged to a family member and dates from about 1880, so it is actually 'legal' to dispose of and I was going to stick it on Ebay with all the proceeds going to an animal/conservation charity, but Ebay won't allow it according to their rules.
I really don't want it in the house any more, but I'm nervous of contacting any relevant charities because of what it is.
Any ideas?

jillie1974

antique shop?
specialist jewellers?

Norma_Desmond

I'd thought of an antique shop, but maybe I'm being too 'moral' in that I'd hate anyone to actually make a profit on it.....

frivolous_fay

I have a vague idea that you need a certificate, or proof of age, to make it legal to sell now...?

cyberbob

Take it to an auction house. Then give the money to a charity

I think as long as it can be dated before 1946 you can legally sell it

Norma_Desmond

Thanks everyone - I think I will put the bracelet into the next auction near here; at least they'll have to sort out any 'legals' re its' age etc.

jasmineswhiskers

Norma_Desmond wrote: »

I'd thought of an antique shop, but maybe I'm being too 'moral' in that I'd hate anyone to actually make a profit on it.....

Although if you put it in an auction chances are a dealer will buy it and re-sell at a profit. Wouldn't hurt to get a price from a dealer - you never know it might be more than you would get at auction when fees have been taken etc (yes, the auction will be making a profit on it too).

Hintza

Just as a point of interest old ivory billiard/snooker balls are now worth a fortune from the likes of bagpipe makers who use the ivory.

Norma_Desmond

Thanks again - I'll get rid of it somehow; I realise that someone will probably make a profit out of it, but hey-ho that's the way of the world....
I've decided that anything I get for it will go to the Born Free Foundation.

wigglebeena

Donate it directly to the charity, telling them you think it should be worth a fair bit, and let them sell it however they see fit? Would save you the trouble.

oldtoolie

Speaking as a fundraiser for a charity, I'm sure Born Free would much rather you sell it and give them the money. It would save them the trouble and ensure that more money went to the cause rather than administration (of sales).