If you leave your collection to someone

Not to be grim, but we are mortal. My intention, is if I pass before my wife, then she will inherit the books. Once we've both passed, we'll pass them down to our kids, with hopes and intentions that they'll keep them for as long as possible, so value could possibly accumulate (ie, selling in 30 years, as opposed to when they get them).

I don't INTEND to part with some of my Tolkien books during my lifetime, though I'd still like them to be kept in decent condition considering, as well be somewhat complete to an extent. For whoever will end up with them after I'm gone.

I try to upkeep a spreadsheet of our valuables in case of sudden death or catastrophic loss (hurricanes are a real threat where I am). I include photos, digitize receipts when possible, and try my best to keep up with market value.

Caudimordax wrote:

I try to upkeep a spreadsheet of our valuables in case of sudden death or catastrophic loss (hurricanes are a real threat where I am). I include photos, digitize receipts when possible, and try my best to keep up with market value.

I have to update it, but my approach is a spreadsheet. Hopefully my boy will be interested in some of it when he grows up, but if not, at least he will know the likely valuable items, so a shyster dealer doesn't just take the lot off him (or my wife) for pennies in the pound.