How much is a real authentic traditional Japanese kimono worth?

Question:

i was wondering about how much a kimono is worth? in 1988 my uncles japanese fiance give my mom two authentic traditional kimonos, real silk and everything, we dont know if they were passed down or if they were from when she was born (about the 60s.) whats a range of how much they could be worth?

Answer:

It depends on the type of kimono, and on whether or not you're just talking about the resale value. There are many different kinds of kimono ranging from the extremely informal to the extremely formal. In addition, the condition of the kimono will have an influence on how much it is worth, as will its age. Generally speaking, when you look at second-hand kimono for sale, you will find that the more expensive kimono are newer (OR old enough to be antiques), more formal, and/or in better condition -- the most expensive kimono will be the ones that meet two more or more of those criteria or have some other distinguishing factor, like being very old antiques of being very rare pieces. Kimono that aren't new but aren't old enough to be antiques (e.g. anything from the 60s into the 80s or 90s), are less formal, and/or aren't in very good condition typically sell for less.

Without seeing a picture of the pieces in question it's hard to say anything beyond that, but chances are good that you would be looking at something in the $75-400 range as a resale price. It's rare for kimono that aren't brand new to go for much over that unless there is something special about them, but it does happen. If you could add some pictures to the question it would help.