Appraiser Profile

Sally Newton is an accredited appraiser and owner of Newton Fine Art Appraisal. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from the University of California, Los Angeles and a Certificate in Appraisal Studies in Fine Art from the University of California, Irvine, Sally is well equipped to navigate the complex world of fine art valuation. During her time at the University of California, Irvine, she immersed herself in a curriculum that encompassed essential topics including Fine Art Valuation and Methodology, Art Research and Analysis, Estate Planning and Law, and Charitable Contributions. Her professional certification, recognized by the American Society of Appraisers, reflects her dedication and commitment to excellence. Certification is granted through a peer review process and strict adherence to the Uniform Standards of Appraisal Practice.

With over 20 years of experience in a wide range of appraisal assignments, Sally delivers the highest level of service, due diligence, and expertise for her clients. Her appraisals are not only accurate and unbiased but also legally sound. Based on thorough research and analysis ensures they can be substantiated and defended in a court of law.

Sally started her career at Architectural Digest Magazine where she served on the editorial staff. She moved to San Francisco to join Montgomery Gallery, an internationally recognized gallery representing 19th and early 20th century European and American artists. Here she prepared estate appraisals for the gallery’s clients and facilitated collection management. She founded Newton Fine Art Appraisal in 2010. Sally specializes in 19th and 20th century American and European art, Modern Art, Contemporary Art, California Art, sculpture and fine art photography. With a robust international network of art dealers and specialists, she has direct access to a wealth of sales data from both gallery and auction markets. She subscribes to three leading fine art databases that provide real-time gallery and auction sales data globally. Her personal library is stocked with essential resource books on well known art movements including Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Surrealism, Modern and Contemporary Art, Early California Art. Bay Area Art, and digital art.

In addition to her appraisal work, Sally speaks to organizations including the San Francisco Yacht Club on Estate Planning and the Legacy for Future Generations. She is a Curator’s Circle member at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and a member of the Museum of Modern Art, New York, the Achenbach Graphic Arts Forum at the de Young, and a member of the San Francisco Yacht Club, where she served on the SFYC Auxiliary Board from 2019 to 2022. Resume available upon request.