What's it Worth? Appraisal for Antique Letter Opener

Kipp asks:

I am unable to find any information on this letter opener. I am sure
it is ivory as it has passed all the common tests to differentiate
from ivory / bone/ /resin or plastic.

AW says: As far as I know, these are not being reproduced, and if you’ve done a hot pin test, we can be certain that it’s Ivory or bone, most likely Ivory as the Japanese were very fond of using Ivory to make such things.

It’s in excellent condition and is hand painted.

Date range: 1890-1930

 

 

Retail value: $75-$95 (the value on this is subjective to the fact that one of the biggest market places has banned the sale of legal Ivory, that being eBay) Your piece is legal because it’s considered Historical Ivory, and not among Internationally banned items, but eBay has chosen to ban the sale of all Ivory, so this will no doubt affect the market value.
 
Wholesale value: $45
(The mid range price you could expect to achieve at a well advertised live auction. The price that is most often realized)

Quick sale value: $25
The price your likely to get if you have to sell your item immediately and your prospective customer is aware of this.

Common terminology, nicknames, keywords: Historical Ivory letter opener, Japanese, turn of the century.

Care and storage tips: Ivory will stain and fade, keep out of harsh light and away from ink.