How to Sell

With nearly 200 years in the auction market, Lyon & Turnbull have garnered an international reputation for specialist art, design and jewellery auctions. At the heart of our organisation is our commitment to our valued customers, for whom we strive to achieve record breaking results.

Our specialist team is one of the largest in the UK, hosting over 45 sales each year featuring Asian Art, Jewellery, Scottish Paintings, Modern Design, Lalique, Antique Furniture, Works of Art, Fine Art, Watches, Rare Books and more.

Whether you are looking to consign a newly acquired family heirloom, a watch from your collection or a work of art you may know little about, our auction specialists will guide you every step of the way.

As one of the UK's premier auction houses, we are proud to combine a dedicated personal service, innovative, thoughtful marketing and a deep understanding of the world of art and antiques to offer an unparalleled auctioneer service. With approximately 45 sales each year across the UK, we specialise in bringing international awareness to both single lot and specialist auctions, with expertise in Asian Art, Jewellery, Scottish Paintings, Modern Design, Sculpture, Fine Art, Furniture, Watches, Rare Books and more.

Whether you are looking to consign a newly acquired family heirloom, a watch from your collection or a work of art you may know little about, our auction specialists will guide you every step of the way.

Request a Free Auction Valuation

Fill in our simple form and obtain a complimentary online auction valuation.

Contact our Team

Looking for information on selling at auction? Contact our team of specialists for expert advice.

Sell in Three Simple Steps

Request an Estimate

Fill in the estimate form below with photographs and as much information as possible, and we will match you with a relevant auction specialist.

Receive a Valuation

A department specialist will be in touch within a few days to offer an auction valuation and further information on how to easily consign at auction.

Consign at Auction

Your item will be expertly catalogued and marketed to our extensive database, all designed to help you receive the best price at auction.

Visit Us In Person

Our auction specialists are available to offer current market advice and valuation appointments nationwide either in-person, via telephone, email or video-call. From Asian art to vintage jewellery, our team are at your disposal to help guide you through the auction process, discuss your potential consignment and advise on a suitable marketing strategy to reach our international network of buyers. You can contact our team below or, for any general enquiries, email us and we will respond as soon as possible.

Our Specialists

How to Sell at Auction

I would like to talk to someone about my item.

You can arrange a consignment appointment at a location near you or by telephoning us on on 0131 557 8844. We would be delighted to meet with you to discuss any consignment opportunity in person.

Does my auction valuation cost anything?

We are pleased to offer a complimentary auction valuation service. In some cases, where the item does not meet Lyon & Turnbull's selling criteria, we will not be able to advise on the provenance or potential price the piece may sell for elsewhere.

How do I sell my items?

If you are happy with your auction estimate, our specialists will advise on a suitable auction date and next steps. Once a consignment document has been completed, we will arrange the shipping or drop off of any items, catalogue the pieces and prepare to market them across our extensive network.

How much does it cost to sell my item?

Once you have received your auction estimate, your specialist will agree the terms of sale. This is typically a percentage of the hammer price of your consigned item when it sells at auction.

Is there any obligation to sell with Lyon & Turnbull after I receive my valuation?

No, there is no obligation to sell with us once you receive your auction estimate.

What will happen before the auction?

Prior to auction, our specialist team will be in touch to advise you of the confirmed date of sale, reconfirm the estimate and reserve prices and lot number of your item.

Where can I watch the auction?

Around three weeks prior, the auction will go online which can be found on our Forthcoming Auctions page. On sale day, you can view the auction in our relevant saleroom or watch online via our website.

If my item sells, when will I receive funds?

Any settlement will be arranged typically 28 working days post sale by BACS.

What happens if my item does not sell at auction?

Should your item not sell, your specialist will be in touch to discuss all options available.