Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Source for Rare Antiques & Collectibles in Amherst
Amherst Antiques has been a trusted destination for antique enthusiasts since 1965. Founded by Matthew Corcoran, our business combines decades of hands-on experience with a deep passion for preserving historical artifacts. Located just 300 yards from Matthew's childhood home in Amherst, Massachusetts, we specialize in curating high-quality antiques, including furniture, collectibles, jewelry, and rare currency. Our expertise spans centuries, from 18th-century colonial furniture to meticulously graded coins and error notes. We pride ourselves on offering items that reflect both historical significance and enduring craftsmanship. Our inventory includes hand-selected pieces such as Art Deco silver compotes, Hudson River School paintings, and Morgan Silver Dollars, ensuring a diverse range of options for collectors and decorators alike.With a focus on authenticity and customer education, we provide detailed insights into the provenance and value of every item. Our commitment to quality is matched by our dedication to customer service, ensuring a seamless experience for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. Over decades, we have built relationships with clients who value our expertise in numismatics, furniture restoration, and antique appraisal. Whether you're seeking a rare investment piece or a unique addition to your home, Amherst Antiques remains your gateway to history.
Services
Antique Furniture Sales
Collectible Coin Trading
Vintage Jewelry Retail
Artwork Appraisals
Error Note Authentication
Silverware Restoration
Estate Antique Purchases
Currency Grading Consultation
Historical Artifact Sales
Decorative Arts Retail
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We offer over 55 years of expertise in antique curation and authentication.
- Our inventory includes rare numismatic items graded by industry standards.
- We specialize in locally sourced colonial-era furniture and regional artifacts.
- Our team provides transparent provenance details for every item.
- We maintain relationships with collectors through personalized service.
Services
Antique Furniture Sales
We offer authentic colonial and vintage furniture pieces carefully restored to preserve historical integrity. Our collection includes corner cupboards, sideboards, and tables from the 18th and 19th centuries. Each item undergoes rigorous authentication to ensure provenance and quality.
Collectible Coin Trading
Our inventory features rare coins like Morgan Silver Dollars and Peace Dollars graded using the Sheldon Scale. We provide both professionally graded and raw coins for collectors at all levels. Detailed documentation accompanies each purchase.
Error Note Authentication
We specialize in identifying and valuing error notes from US currency production. Services include grading, provenance research, and market valuation for notes with printing defects like inverted backs or mismatched serial numbers.
Artwork Appraisals
Our appraisal services cover paintings, prints, and decorative arts from the 18th century to mid-20th century. We assess authenticity, historical context, and market value for insurance or sale purposes.
Silverware Restoration
We restore antique silver items including compotes, inkwells, and flatware while maintaining original craftsmanship. Services include cleaning, repair, and preservation consulting for long-term care.
People
Matthew Corcoran
Owner
Matthew Corcoran has specialized in antique collecting since 1965, starting with bottle hunting as a teenager. He transformed his childhood passion into a lifelong career, establishing Amherst Antiques near his hometown. His expertise spans furniture, numismatics, and historical artifacts.
Questions
What types of antiques do you specialize in?
We specialize in colonial-era furniture, 19th-20th century jewelry, rare coins, and historical currency including error notes.
Do you purchase items from private collections?
Yes, we buy quality antiques and collectibles from estates and private owners.
How do you authenticate rare coins?
We use professional grading standards like the Sheldon Scale and PMG currency guidelines for authentication.
Can you help identify unknown antique items?
Our experts provide free consultations to assess and value unidentified antiques.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept cash, checks, and major credit cards for purchases.
Do you offer shipping for purchased items?
Yes, we arrange secure shipping for all sold items upon request.