Bidding With Hamilton & Sons
Our auctions run online through multiple platforms. See live auction pages for links to the platforms used for each auctions. Registration and bidding generally work the same way on all platforms — create a free account, add a payment method, and you're ready to bid from any browser or the platform's mobile app.
Before You Start
You'll need a valid email address and a credit or debit card to register. Registration is free, and you only pay if you win a lot.
Getting Registered
1. Find the Auction
Browse our Current Auctions page and click through to the catalog on HiBid (or the listed platform for that sale).
2. Create an Account
Click "Register to Bid." If you don't already have an account with that platform, you'll be asked for your name, address, email, and phone number.
3. Add a Payment Method
Add a credit or debit card. This card isn't charged unless you win — it's held on file so the platform can process payment automatically after the auction closes.
4. Confirm Your Registration
Some auctions require approval before you can bid — this is usually automatic and near-instant, but can occasionally take a few hours if manually reviewed.
Placing Bids
We Run Live Internet Auctions
We run our sales as live internet auctions, just like an in-person auction — as the auctioneer, we open and close each lot ourselves, live, in real time. That gives you two ways to bid.
Browse the Catalog
Explore lots by category or by artist and manufacturer, or view the full catalog for the current sale. Each lot page shows full-size photos, a description, and the current estimate.
Option 1: Place a Max Bid Ahead of Time
Can't make the live auction, or just want a safety net? Enter the most you're willing to pay for a lot before the sale starts. The system bids incrementally on your behalf, up to your max, only as needed to keep you in the lead — you won't automatically pay your full max unless another bidder pushes it that high. If someone outbids your max, the platform emails and/or texts you (depending on your notification settings) so you can decide whether to raise it before we get to that lot.
Option 2: Join the Live Auction and Bid in Real Time
Log in when the sale goes live and bid alongside the room as each lot comes up, the same as raising a paddle at an in-person auction. This is the best way to make sure you don't lose a lot you really want in the final moments — you can react and outbid in the moment instead of relying on a pre-set max.
We Call the Close
Because we're running the auction live, we decide when each lot's bidding closes — not an automatic timer. Lots are called one at a time in order, so keep an eye on the lot number if you're bidding live.
After You Win
You'll receive an invoice by email once the auction closes. The email will have more information about payment, shipping arrangements, and what to expect next. If using our in-house shipping, items are professionally packed and insured, with shipping cost added to your invoice; please allow up to 30 days for us to process and ship your order, and you'll receive a tracking number by email once it's on its way.
Full payment, shipping, and bidding terms are available on our Terms & Conditions page.
Questions Before You Bid?
We're happy to help with registration, shipping estimates, or condition questions on any lot.
Email: contact@hamiltonandsonsauctions.com
Phone: (802) 989-6565