Most of those buying old gold and silver as "scrap" are pretty savvy on values, and they sell or put at auction pieces that have value more than scrap. They depend on the seller's ignorance. Only pieces that lack buyer interest are scrapped.

For those who must sell, either because money is direly needed, or they have no way of keeping the items (antique furniture or the like), appraisal should be sought. Much information can be gleaned from the net. Reliable appraisers are the next step.

A buyer who resells must take up to 40 percent to cover expenses. Auction houses often take 30% as their fee.

I have a record of all items of any worth. When I go to to that great scrapyard, for those items not specifically mentioned in the will, family members will have some idea of values. Not much, but a few things of interest.