FAQ
This should be in a museum! Why is it being offered for sale?!
Collectors are frequently pioneers in recognizing emerging historic and cultural trends, often long before museums acknowledge the same significance. Museums are often bound by their specific missions and limited resources, and are rarely able to acquire, store and curate all the potentially significant objects they would like to have, even if they seem relevant to their collections.
How do I register to participate in an auction?
To participate in our auctions, simply create an account by clicking the “Register” button at the top of the page. Fill out your information, verify your email, and you’re ready to start bidding. Registration is free, and you only pay if you win an item.
How does the bidding process work?
Once registered, you can bid on any available item. Enter your bid amount, and our system will notify you if you’re the highest bidder or if you’ve been outbid.
Auctions follow a timed format, and the highest bid at the auction’s close wins the item.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), personal checks drawn on US banks, and money orders. We accept cash (US Dollars, Euros, or British Pounds) if that is the customer’s preference. We also accept wire transfers for international transactions over $1000 USD.
We DO NOT accept Western Union wire transfers, or PayPal.
Is there a buyer's premium?
Yes, we charge a buyer’s premium, which is an additional fee on top of the winning bid amount. This fee covers operational costs and varies depending on the auction. Please check each item’s listing for the exact buyer’s premium.
How do I know if an item is authentic?
All items on our site are carefully vetted by our experts for authenticity. We provide detailed descriptions, high-resolution photos, and, when possible, certifications of authenticity. If you have questions about a specific item, feel free to contact our support team.
Can I cancel a bid?
Bids cannot be canceled once placed, so please review your bids carefully before submitting. In exceptional circumstances, contact our support team, but note that cancellations are not guaranteed.
What happens if I win an item but don't pay?
If payment is not received within 48 hours, your account may be subject to penalties, including suspension from future auctions. We encourage all bidders to ensure they’re prepared to complete the purchase if they win.
How are items shipped?
We offer secure worldwide shipping. Shipping fees are calculated based on the item’s size, weight, and destination, and these fees are added to your final invoice. Once shipped, you’ll receive a tracking number to monitor your delivery.
Can I inspect items in person?
Some items are available for in-person inspection by appointment only. Please refer to the item description to see if it is eligible for inspection, and contact us to schedule a time.
What if I'm not satisfied with my purchase?
Due to the nature of auctions, all sales are final. We encourage you to read each item’s description and review all photos carefully before bidding. However, if an item arrives damaged or significantly differs from the listing, contact us, and we’ll work to resolve the issue.
Are there any hidden fees?
We strive to keep all fees transparent. The main additional fees are the buyer’s premium and shipping costs, which are listed in the item’s description or during checkout.
How do I contact customer support?
You can reach our support team via email at admin@bannermanauctions.com or by phone at (573) 987-1865 We’re available Monday
through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, to assist with any questions or concerns.