How Antique ID works

Antique ID turns a clear photo into a research identification and value range on iPhone or iPad—so you can move from mystery object to informed next step in minutes.

Estimates are research aids, not certified appraisals. Free trial available on the App Store.

Download on the App Store

Updated 18 September 2026

Whether you collect, deal, or just inherited something unfamiliar, Antique ID is designed for the moment you need orientation fast. You photograph the piece, the AI reviews visual clues, and you get a structured starting point: likely type, period context and a value range grounded in comparable market signals.

The workflow is deliberately simple because antique research is already complex. Instead of asking you to name the category first, the app starts from what the camera can see—shape, materials, decoration and any marks—then proposes language you can verify against references, auction archives or a specialist. That is how photo identification becomes useful without pretending to be a courtroom-ready appraisal.

Three steps from photo to value range

Taking a clear photo of an antique for Antique ID

1. Photograph the antique

Use even light and a simple background. Capture the whole object, then add close-ups of maker’s marks, hallmarks, labels and wear. Clear mark photos often matter as much as the hero shot. For practical tips, see how to photograph an antique for identification and our deeper lander on identifying an antique from a photo.

Open Antique ID
Antique ID analysing object type, marks, and era from a photo

2. Analyse object, marks and era

Antique ID reviews the image for object category, materials and construction clues, legible marks, and style signals that suggest a likely period. You do not need to know the category in advance—the app is built for “what is this?” moments as well as second opinions when you already have a working theory.

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Value range estimate with research note in Antique ID

3. Review the research value range

You receive a value range for research—useful when drafting a listing, deciding whether to buy, or preparing questions for a specialist. Treat it as a starting band, then cross-check condition, rarity and current demand. It is not a formal appraisal for insurance, tax or legal work.

Download on the App Store

What you get vs what you don’t

You get You don’t get
Fast identification starting point from a photo A certified appraisal or legal valuation
Likely type, era clues and mark context when visible Guaranteed authenticity or provenance proof
A research value range based on comparable signals A promised sale price at any venue
A free trial on iOS via the App Store Android / Google Play support

Who it is for

  • Collectors researching era and value before they buy or list
  • Dealers seeking a quick second opinion between appointments
  • Owners researching an inherited object before they decide next steps

After the app orients you, dig deeper with how to identify antiques, maker’s marks and hallmarks, and antique vs reproduction.

Subscriptions are managed through Apple. Start with the free trial, confirm the app fits your research style, then continue with premium if you want unlimited access. If something looks off—blurry marks, an unexpected category, or a restore-purchase issue—Support covers the usual fixes so you can retake photos and try again without guessing.

Quick FAQ

No. Results are research estimates for curiosity and planning. Hire a qualified appraiser for insurance, estate, tax or legal valuations.

Clear, well-lit photos work best. Include the full object and any marks. If a result looks weak, retake with better light and closer mark shots—or see Support.

Yes. Try Antique ID with the free trial on the App Store. Manage or cancel subscriptions in your Apple ID settings.

Ready to try photo identification?