Special Collections

We are collectors by nature - be it books, music, antiques, coins, figurines, fur coats, baseball paraphernalia, guns - the list is endless. 

We have collected these things because they give us joy.  Those we leave behind may not get the same enjoyment out of our collections. 

Thus, whether the special collections have substantial monetary value or not, you need to give thought to what you would like to happen to these special collections and document it!

This action will also help minimize the possibility of the collection or individual pieces disappearing prior to your estate being settled.

What would be of great help for those managing your estate would be:

• Create an inventory of the collection(s) - either paper or electronic 
• Tell the Executor/Executrix where this inventory can be found. 
• Take photographs of your special  collection pieces and include them with the concise descriptions in the inventory
• If items are to be donated to a special organization, such as a museum or historical society, be specific about these details. It might be good to check with your      lawyer about including these in your will
• If the collection is to be sold, and you know someone interested in purchasing either certain items or the entire collection, include this information - name and contact details

Of all your personal collections, perhaps your clothing will be the most difficult for your loved ones to deal with. Within your clothing there may be a special "collection" that you would want to have handled differently from the rest of your clothes. 

For me, it is my collection of Hermes scarves. I would not want these donated to a charity, but either to go to my daughter or sold and the funds becoming part of the estate.

If you have a preference for a specific charity that you would like to see receive the rest of your clothing, consider indicating your preference in either your will or your end of life document.