Must Read: Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group in 2024

The Antiques & Collectibles National Association (ACNA), in collaboration with the Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group (ACIG), has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1991. This association was founded with the primary goal of providing ever-expanding benefits and specialized insurance programs to those involved in the antiques and collectibles industry. Over the years, the ACNA has grown significantly and is now recognized as the largest national association of antique dealers and collectors in the United States, boasting a membership of over 3,000 individuals across all 50 states.

History and Establishment in 1991

Purpose and Mission of the Association

From its inception, the Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group (ACNA) has been dedicated to advancing the interests of antique dealers and collectors through a variety of initiatives. The primary mission of the association is to provide its members with access to specialized insurance programs that protect their valuable collections and business assets, including individual collector policies, liability insurance, inventory coverage, and building coverage tailored to the needs of those in the antiques and collectibles sector.

In addition to its insurance offerings, the ACNA also aims to foster a supportive community where members can share knowledge, network with peers, and stay informed about industry trends and best practices. The association regularly organizes events, including antique and collectible shows, where members can showcase their items, connect with potential buyers, and learn from industry experts.

Furthermore, the ACNA is committed to advocating for the rights and interests of antique dealers and collectors at both the national and local levels. This involves engaging with policymakers to ensure that the unique needs and concerns of the antiques and collectibles industry are adequately represented and addressed in legislative and regulatory frameworks.

Through its comprehensive suite of benefits and services, the Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group (ACNA) strives to enhance the professional success and personal satisfaction of its members. The association’s dedication to excellence is reflected in its continuous efforts to expand its offerings and improve the quality of support provided to its members, ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive in their specialized field.

Overview of the Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group

The Antiques & Collectibles Insurance Group (ACIG) serves as the dedicated insurance department of the Antiques & Collectibles National Association (ACNA). ACIG specializes in offering insurance solutions tailored specifically for antique dealers, collectors, and businesses operating within the antiques and collectibles industry. This specialized unit was established to cater to the unique insurance needs of its members, ensuring comprehensive coverage and peace of mind. Whether safeguarding valuable collections, protecting against unforeseen risks, or supporting business operations, ACIG’s range of insurance products is designed to meet the distinct requirements of the antiques and collectibles community.

Description of the Insurance Department

The ACIG, or Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group, operates with a singular focus: to offer specialized insurance solutions that address the specific risks associated with the antiques and collectibles market. Unlike generic insurance providers, ACIG understands the intricacies of valuing and insuring items that are often irreplaceable and of significant historical value. This expertise is reflected in the design of their insurance policies, which are crafted to meet the diverse needs of individual collectors, dealers, and antique businesses.

The department collaborates with three highly-rated insurance companies, all of which hold A or A+ ratings from AM Best, a testament to their financial stability and reliability. This partnership ensures that ACIG can offer robust and dependable coverage options to its members. The department is staffed by a team of professionals who not only possess extensive knowledge of insurance but also have a deep appreciation for antiques and collectibles. This unique combination of skills and passion enables ACIG to provide exceptional service and support to its clients.

ACIG’s mission is to deliver comprehensive insurance coverage that is both accessible and affordable. They strive to remove the barriers that often prevent collectors and dealers from obtaining adequate protection, such as high costs and complex appraisal requirements. By simplifying the insurance process and offering competitive rates, ACIG makes it easier for its members to safeguard their valuable assets. The Antiques and Collectibles Insurance Group remains committed to its founding principles of expert care and dedicated service in safeguarding treasures of historical and personal significance.

Types of Insurance Policies Offered

ACIG offers a variety of insurance policies designed to cover different aspects of the antiques and collectibles industry. These policies include:

• Individual Collector Policies:
  • Coverage Scope: Provides protection for personal collections, covering risks such as fire, theft, accidental breakage, and natural disasters.
  • Appraisal Requirements: No appraisals are required for items valued under $5,000, streamlining the application process.
  • Replacement Cost Coverage: Ensures that in the event of a loss, the policyholder receives the current market value of the item.
• Liability Insurance:
  • Auction and Estate Sales: Offers liability coverage for auctioneers and estate sale operators, including product liability and personal injury liability.
  • Limits: Up to $1,000,000 per occurrence and general aggregate limits of $2,000,000, providing substantial protection.
• Inventory Coverage:
  • Comprehensive Protection: Covers inventory at various locations, including auctions, mall booths, storage, and during transit.
  • Covered Perils: Includes fire, lightning, windstorm, earthquake, burglary, robbery, accidental breakage, and vandalism.
  • No Coinsurance Penalty: Members are encouraged to insure to the maximum value without facing penalties for underinsurance.
• Building Coverage:
  • Property Protection: Covers buildings owned by members, with options for replacement cost or actual cash value (depreciated value) coverage.
  • Coverage Exclusions: Standard policies exclude flood and earthquake coverage, but additional coverage options may be available.
• Collector Car Insurance:
  • Specialized Coverage: Designed for antique, classic, and special interest vehicles, offering benefits such as agreed value coverage, low deductibles, and flexible mileage limits.
  • Automatic New Purchase Coverage: Provides instant coverage for newly acquired vehicles, subject to certain limitations.
• Jewelry Insurance:
  • Personalized Policies: Tailored coverage for unique and valuable jewelry items, offering protection against loss, theft, and damage.
• Employee Dishonesty Bonds:
  • Protection Against Theft: Covers losses incurred due to dishonest acts by employees, providing peace of mind for business owners.

ACIG’s range of insurance products reflects their commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the antiques and collectibles community. By offering specialized coverage that addresses the unique risks faced by collectors and dealers, ACIG helps ensure that these valuable items and businesses are well-protected. Whether it’s safeguarding a personal collection, protecting inventory, or insuring a classic car, ACIG provides the comprehensive coverage needed to preserve and protect the treasures of the past.

Key Personnel in the Association

The Antiques & Collectibles National Association (ACNA) is led by a dedicated team of professionals who bring a wealth of experience and passion to their roles. Each member of the team plays a vital part in the success and growth of the association and its insurance group.

Angie Becker – President

Angie Becker has been with the ACNA since 1998 and currently serves as its President. With her extensive experience in the insurance industry, she holds the Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation. Angie is not only responsible for overseeing the association’s operations but also represents the ACNA at antique and collectible shows across the country. Her leadership and dedication to the industry have been instrumental in expanding the association’s benefits and insurance programs. In her spare time, Angie enjoys going to the beach, reading, rubber stamping, and watching the Washington Capitals. She and her husband, Mike, have three children and two granddaughters.

Mike Becker – Senior Vice President

Mike Becker, the Senior Vice President of ACNA, manages the behind-the-scenes operations of the insurance department and the association. His responsibilities also include overseeing the collector car insurance program. Mike’s technical skills and attention to detail ensure that the association’s administrative functions run smoothly. Outside of work, Mike enjoys tinkering with his classic cars and spending time at the beach.

Steven Becker – Vice President

Steven Becker, the Vice President, is known as the jack of all trades within the association. He handles a variety of tasks, including processing and customer service duties. Steven frequently travels to shows across the country to promote the benefits of the ACNA and its insurance programs. Married with one son, Steven enjoys playing golf and is a passionate supporter of Liverpool FC in his free time.

Lisa Kersten – Insurance Service Representative

Lisa Kersten joined the ACNA in 2015 and serves as an Insurance Service Representative. She holds the Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR) designation and works primarily with the dealer insurance program. Her duties include policy processing, answering customer calls, and providing customer service. A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Lisa is married and has two children.

Michele Nelson – Insurance Service Representative

Michele Nelson has been with the ACNA since 2019. She is also an Insurance Service Representative, focusing on the collector insurance program. Michele’s responsibilities include policy processing, customer service, and handling customer calls. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Michele is married and has five children and two grandchildren.

Heather Berry – Administrative Assistant

Heather Berry plays a key role in managing the ACNA’s membership, enhancing member benefit programs, and handling communications such as newsletters and social media. She also works on the association’s websites and marketing efforts. Heather is a graduate of Appalachian State University and lives in Davidson. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, doing crafts, playing cards, and trivia games.

Benefits of Antiques and Collectibles Insurance

The Antiques & Collectibles Insurance Group (ACIG) offers a range of benefits tailored specifically for collectors and dealers in the antiques and collectibles industry. Their insurance policies are designed to provide comprehensive protection while being accessible and affordable.

No Appraisals Required for Items Under $5,000

One of the significant advantages of ACIG’s insurance program is that no appraisals are required for items valued under $5,000. This simplifies the process of obtaining insurance and reduces the initial cost and effort for collectors and dealers. Only single items over $5,000 need to be listed on the application, making it easier to protect a wide range of valuable possessions without extensive documentation.

Low Rates Compared to Homeowners Coverage

ACIG offers highly competitive rates that are generally more cost-effective than standard homeowners coverage. Homeowners policies often provide limited coverage for antiques and collectibles, with high premiums and restrictive terms. In contrast, ACIG’s specialized policies are designed to meet the specific needs of collectors, providing broader coverage at lower rates.

Replacement Cost Coverage and Excellent Coverage Options

ACIG’s insurance policies include replacement cost coverage, ensuring that policyholders receive the current market value of their items at the time of loss. This type of coverage is crucial for antiques and collectibles, whose value can fluctuate significantly over time. Additionally, ACIG offers excellent coverage options that protect against a wide range of risks, including fire, lightning, vandalism, windstorm, earthquake, flood, theft, and accidental breakage. This comprehensive protection ensures that collections are well-guarded against various potential threats.

Low Deductibles and Coverage for Most Collectibles

ACIG policies come with low deductibles, starting at just $250 per occurrence. Higher deductibles are available for those seeking premium credits, offering flexibility based on individual needs and preferences. The insurance covers most types of collectibles, with few exclusions. Exceptions typically include jewelry, modern guns, and motorized items, but separate rates and applications are available for coins and currency. This broad inclusivity ensures that nearly all collectors can find a suitable insurance solution within ACIG’s offerings.

Specialized Insurance Programs for Collectors

The Antiques & Collectibles Insurance Group (ACIG) offers a range of specialized insurance programs tailored to the unique needs of collectors. These programs provide comprehensive coverage for various types of valuable items, ensuring collectors can protect their investments effectively.

Antique, Classic, and Special Interest Vehicle Insurance

ACIG provides specialized insurance programs for antique, classic, and special interest vehicles, including autos, motorcycles, boats, and tractors. Key benefits of these programs include:

• Agreed Value Coverage: In the event of a total loss, policyholders receive the full value of the policy, ensuring they are fully compensated for their vehicle’s worth.
• Zero or Low Deductible: Policyholders may have the option of no deductible or a minimal deductible, reducing out-of-pocket expenses in case of a claim.
• Flexible Mileage: Coverage allows for casual driving, parades, or car shows without worrying about exceeding mileage limits.
• Automatic New Purchase Coverage: New vehicle purchases receive instant coverage, subject to certain limitations.
• One Liability Fee: A single liability charge applies regardless of the number of vehicles insured under the policy.

Jewelry Insurance with Personalized Coverage

ACIG also offers personalized jewelry insurance through a specialized program that ensures unique and valuable pieces are adequately protected. This program provides:

• Customized Coverage: Insurance is tailored to the specific value and characteristics of each piece of jewelry, unlike generic homeowners’ policies.
• Comprehensive Protection: Coverage includes loss, theft, and damage, ensuring that jewelry is protected against a wide range of risks.
• Expert Claims Handling: ACIG’s experts work with policyholders to ensure fair and prompt claim settlements.

Liability and Inventory Coverage Options

ACIG offers robust liability and inventory coverage options for various settings within the antiques and collectibles industry. These options are designed to protect businesses and individual collectors from a wide range of risks.

Liability Coverage Details for Auctions, Estate Sales, and Mall Booths

ACIG provides liability coverage tailored to the specific needs of auctions, estate sales, and mall booths. This includes:

• Auction Liability: Covers liability at auctions, including product liability for merchandise sold and personal injury liability such as libel, slander, and false arrest.
• Estate Sale Liability: Similar to auction liability, this covers liability at estate sales and includes product and personal injury liability.
• Mall Booth Liability: Covers liability for rented mall booths, including product liability for items sold and personal injury liability.

Liability Coverage Limits:

• $1,000,000 Each Occurrence Limit
• $1,000,000 General Aggregate Limit
• Included Products/Operations Limit
• $1,000,000 Personal & Advertising Injury Limit
• $100,000 Fire Damage Limit
• $5,000 Medical Payments
• $250 Deductible

Inventory Coverage Specifics, Including Covered Perils and Exclusions

Inventory coverage under ACIG policies offers comprehensive protection for inventory at various locations, including auctions, mall booths, storage, homes, and shows. The key aspects of this coverage include:

• Covered Perils:
  • Fire, lightning, windstorm, earthquake, burglary, robbery, accidental breakage, and vandalism.
  • Collision, theft, and vehicle overturn while in transit.
  • Consigned inventory in the policyholder’s care and custody.
• Exclusions and Limitations:
  • Does not cover mysterious disappearance (e.g., shoplifting) or flood.
  • Coverage on fine jewelry is limited to $2,500 per claim.
  • Coins and stamps are not covered under standard policies.
  • Per item limit is $5,000, which can be increased to $10,000 for an additional premium.
  • Shipping coverage up to $5,000 per occurrence.
• Deductibles:
  • Standard deductibles start at $250 per occurrence.
  • Higher deductibles are available for premium credit.
  • Wind deductible required in Florida and other coastal areas.

ACIG’s inventory coverage ensures that valuable collections and business inventories are protected against a wide range of potential risks, providing peace of mind to collectors and dealers.