The Short Answer

In Florida probate, collectibles like Pokémon cards are typically valued at their estimated fair market value as of the decedent’s date of death, and that value is reported on the estate’s inventory. Because collectible values can swing widely based on condition, grading, and recent sales, it’s often wise to support the number with a credible valuation source or appraisal.

What Florida Law Says

When a probate estate is opened in Florida, the personal representative (executor) generally must prepare and file an inventory listing estate assets with reasonable detail. For each item, the inventory must include the item’s estimated fair market value at the date of death—which is the key concept for valuing collectibles.

The Statute

The primary law governing this issue is Fla. Stat. § 733.604.

This statute requires the personal representative to file a verified inventory that lists estate property with reasonable detail and includes each item’s estimated fair market value at the date of the decedent’s death.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statute provides the general rule, applying it to your specific situation is rarely simple. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Strict Deadlines: Florida probate rules generally require the inventory to be filed relatively early in the case (often within about 60 days after letters are issued), and missing deadlines can create court and beneficiary disputes.
• Burden of Proof: Beneficiaries can request an explanation of how you determined an inventory value (or a copy of an appraisal if you obtained one). If the number looks unsupported—especially for high-value cards—conflict can escalate quickly.
• Exceptions and classification issues: Some property may not be a probate asset at all (for example, items held in a trust or otherwise not owned by the decedent individually). Also, grouping cards vs. valuing key cards individually can materially change the reported value and the risk of objections.

Collectibles are a common flashpoint in estates because condition, authenticity, grading, and “comps” (recent comparable sales) can be disputed. An attorney can help you decide when an appraisal is warranted, how to describe the collection “with reasonable detail,” and how to reduce the risk of later claims that the inventory was misleading.

If your situation also involves family members removing items or disagreements about who gets what, you may find this helpful: Can I make heirs return items they removed from an estate home before I took possession in Florida? and What Are an Executor’s (Personal Representative’s) Responsibilities During Probate in Florida?.

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Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Florida law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.