Recently, Museum administrators have challenged my assertions
that it is unethical for me to provide appraisals to potential donors who want a
charitable gift tax deduction. I am somewhat aware of the conflicts of interest
this poses, but have been unable to develop, in layman's terms, an argument
against providing appraisal services in donation scenarios. I even thought it
might be illegal, but apparently IRS rule changes from the early 1990s allow
museums to determine "fair market value". We are a military history
museum and if we offer one appraisal, it is assured our actions will spawn ten
more similar requests. Likewise, I would not consider myself an expert in
militaria collectibles. My research time would be reduced significantly by these
type of activities. What are some of the arguments against providing appraisals
and can anyone recommend published resources enumerating them? Thanks in
advance. You may respond off-list.
W. Parker Hayes Jr.
Curator & Director of Operations
Airmen Memorial Museum