How We Estimate Item Values
How we estimate item values is simple to describe: you upload one photo, an AI vision model reads what it can see, and we show you a likely identification with a price range and an honest confidence level. This page explains each step, the rules we hold the model to, and the things a photo-based estimate cannot do.
Step 1: You upload a photo
You take or choose a photo of the item and upload it. On our server, the image is resized to about 1024 pixels on its longest side. That size keeps enough detail for marks, labels and texture while making the analysis faster.
The photo is processed for the estimate and is not stored on our servers after processing. The Privacy Policy has the details.
Step 2: An AI vision model reads the visible clues
The resized image is sent to an AI vision model from OpenAI. The model looks at the same kinds of clues a person would check first:
- Shape and form: the overall design, proportions and style, which often point to a period or type of maker.
- Materials: what the item appears to be made of, such as wood, glass, porcelain, metal, leather or plastic.
- Marks and labels: stamps, signatures, hallmarks, tags, model numbers and printed text, when they are visible and legible.
- Wear: chips, scratches, fading, patina, missing parts and other signs of age or use.
From those clues the model returns a structured result.
Step 3: What you get back
Each estimate includes:
- A likely identification of the item.
- An approximate era.
- A condition score from 1 to 10, with a short note explaining it.
- A value range in US dollars.
- A confidence level: high, medium or low.
- Three factors that affect the price of this kind of item.
- Tips for taking a better photo, if a clearer picture would help.
Where the value range comes from
The range reflects typical market prices for similar items as known to the model. It is a general picture of what comparable pieces tend to bring, based on the item type, likely maker, era and condition. It is not pulled from a single sale, and it is not a price anyone has promised to pay.
Real prices depend on where and how you sell, how the item is described and photographed, and who happens to be looking that week. Treat the range as a starting point for your own research, not a final answer.
Similar listings on eBay
When available, we search eBay's official Browse API for up to 3 similar listings that are for sale right now and show them next to your estimate. This lets you check the range yourself instead of taking our word for it.
Keep one thing in mind: these are asking prices, not sold prices. Sellers often list above what buyers end up paying, so sold prices are often lower. If you are deciding what to ask for an item, looking at completed or sold listings for similar pieces is the most useful next step.
Upload a photo and get a likely identification and a value range.
What the confidence level means
| Level | What it means |
|---|---|
| High | The identification is clear and the item has a well-known market. |
| Medium | The identification is likely, but details such as the exact model, age or condition are uncertain. |
| Low | Several possibilities fit the photo. The range is wider, and we say so. |
Rules we hold the model to
A range that runs from $10 to $1,000 does not help anyone. So we set limits on how wide a range can be:
- For medium or high confidence, the top of the range is at most 1.5 times the bottom. For example, $100 to $150 is allowed, but $100 to $300 is not.
- A wider range is only allowed with low confidence, and it is labeled as low confidence so you know to read it with care.
- When no reasonable identification is possible, we say so plainly instead of guessing. We suggest how to take a better photo, and that attempt does not use up an estimate.
How to get a better estimate
- Use daylight or bright, even light, and avoid harsh glare on glass or metal.
- Fill most of the frame with the item, on a plain background.
- If the item has a mark, label or signature, take a close, sharp photo of it. Marks often matter more than anything else for identification.
- Show any damage honestly. Condition has a large effect on price.
What a photo-based estimate cannot do
An estimate from one photo has real limits, and we would rather state them clearly:
- It cannot authenticate designer goods. A photo is not enough to confirm whether a bag, watch or sneaker is genuine.
- It cannot test metal or stones. Silver content, gold karat and gemstone identity need physical testing.
- It cannot see hidden damage or repairs, such as cracks under a base, replaced parts or restored finishes.
- It is not a formal appraisal.
- It is not suitable for insurance, estate tax, charitable donation or any legal use.
For those purposes, use a credentialed appraiser who can examine the item in person and provide a signed, documented report.
Common questions
Is the estimate a price someone will pay me?
No. It is a range based on typical market prices for similar items. No buyer is bound by it, and we do not make offers to buy items.
Why are the eBay prices higher than my range?
The listings we show are current asking prices. Many items sell for less than their asking price, and some do not sell at all. Sold listings give a more realistic picture.
What happens if the model cannot identify my item?
We tell you plainly that no reasonable identification was possible, suggest how to take a better photo, and the attempt does not use up an estimate.
Can I use the estimate for insurance or taxes?
No. Insurance, estate tax, donation and legal uses need a formal appraisal from a credentialed appraiser.
Do you keep my photo?
No. The photo is not stored on our servers after processing. See the Privacy Policy for what we do keep and for how long.