Beware! You may not be able to buy or sell anything of any age that is made totally or partially of ivory — everything from a piano to a button. All import and export of ivory from African elephants except for “bona fide antiques” was banned by Executive Order from President Obama on Feb. 11, 2014. Auctioneers, collectors, dealers, artists, musicians, museums, and others are concerned. We checked Kovels online price guide and found many pieces that can no longer be bought or sold because at least part of the object is made of ivory. There are several existing laws impacted by this ivory ban, which will be carried out by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
There’s still time to contact your U.S. Senator, Representative or the Fish & Wildlife Service to make your thoughts known.
