Quire Auctions is a UK-based online book auction house specialising in rare, antiquarian, and specialist books. We work with collectors, dealers, and institutions to provide a clear, efficient, and transparent auction service for both buyers and sellers.
Our approach is shaped by practical experience in the rare book trade and a focus on delivering well-run auctions that respect the material, the market, and the people involved.
Careful Handling and Professional Presentation
Books consigned to Quire Auctions are handled by experienced book professionals. From initial receipt through to despatch, care is taken to ensure appropriate handling, storage, and packing.
All lots are carefully catalogued and photographed, with descriptions designed to reflect each book accurately and clearly. Our aim is to provide bidders with the information they need upfront, reducing the need for additional condition reports while ensuring confidence when bidding.
Clear, Competitive Buying Terms
We aim to make buying at auction straightforward and transparent.
Market-leading buyer’s premium of 24%, inclusive of VAT and the-saleroom surcharges
Cost-effective in-house postage, avoiding the higher fees often charged by third-party contractors
Prompt despatch, with books sent within four working days of payment
Eco-conscious packaging, using protective materials suited to books
Our online platform is designed to be clear, dependable, and easy to use, making bidding and buying accessible for both UK and international buyers.
Fair, Transparent Selling Terms
Quire Auctions offers sellers a competitive and collaborative alternative to traditional auction houses.
Low, market-leading commission rates, from 12.5% down to 0%, based on lot value
Free auction valuations, with no obligation to sell
No hidden fees, including zero charges for photography, reserves, or unsold lots
Carefully considered auction curation, with lots selected and grouped to maximise visibility
Books are catalogued on their individual merits by experienced specialists, and sellers are encouraged to contribute insights that may help guide cataloguing and marketing.
Better Outcomes Through Lower Fees
Lower buyer’s premiums and realistic shipping costs play an important role in auction performance. Bidders take total costs into account when placing bids, and keeping these charges competitive can contribute to stronger hammer prices for consignors.
Efficient Auctions and Prompt Payment
Lots enter auction promptly, with a clear timetable from consignment to sale. Payments to sellers are issued within 15 days of receipt from the bidder, who is required to settle within five working days of the auction closing.
This ensures sellers are not kept waiting unnecessarily once a sale has been completed.
Who We Work With
Quire Auctions works with:
Private collectors
Booksellers and trade professionals
Libraries and institutions
We are based in the UK and work with clients nationwide, while offering global online exposure to reach serious collectors worldwide.
Learn More
To read about the thinking behind Quire Auctions and the philosophy that informed its creation, you can visit A Letter from one of the Founders.
If you’re ready to take the next step, you can sell your books with Quire Auctions or explore upcoming auctions to buy.