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National Auctioneers Week champions the ancient and dynamic profession of auctioneering every year during the week before the first Saturday in May. This week-long observance highlights the skill, speed, and excitement auctioneers bring to buying and selling goods. Explore the history of auctions, learn about the different types, and discover how this vibrant industry continues to thrive.
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History of National Auctioneers Week
Auctioneering is an ancient method of trading goods and services and has been held all over the world. It started as a way of selling humans as a commodity. The first-known auctions were held around 500 B.C. in Babylon. The Babylonians held yearly auctions in which women were displayed from most to least beautiful, who were then sold to the highest bidder. It was illegal for women to marry in any other way. The Romans carried on this tradition, selling slaves and property to pay off debts.
Auctions came to America in the 1600s century on the Mayflower with Pilgrims who used this method to sell crops, livestock, farmers, and slaves. This was a popular method of selling goods as it was the quickest way for owners to trade their property for cash. It was also common during the Civil War for colonels to sell spoils of war. This is the reason auctioneers are referred to as ‘Colonel.’ World War II helped popularize auctions even further with the need of selling off property quickly and privately and auctioneers were being viewed more as businessmen.
Auctioneering is drastically different now than it first started. It’s a very popular and competitive field. The rise of the internet gave way to a quicker and more casual way of holding auctions. The first online auction started with OnSale.com, founded in 1995. There are now hundreds of websites selling various items from unique collectibles and antiques, to homemade or used items. Auctions became much simpler with websites like eBay, Facebook, and Amazon that sell everyday items. Amazon sells off used products for a much cheaper price, making it profitable for the buyer.
National Auctioneers Week timeline
Babylonians hold annual auctions as a way of marrying off brides.
The National Auctioneers Association is founded to represent auctioneers and auction businesses.
Emma Bailey becomes the first female auctioneer.
The website OnSale is founded in May, providing a newer and simpler method of holding auctions.
National Auctioneers Week FAQs
When is National Auctioneers Week?
In 2027, National Auctioneers Week will be observed from Monday, April 26 through Saturday, May 1, recognizing the unique skills and contributions of auction professionals.
How many auctioneers are there in the U.S.?
The auction industry continues to be a dynamic field, with an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 auctioneers practicing nationwide in 2027. This number includes both full-time professionals and those who conduct auctions on a part-time basis.
What is the economic impact of the auction industry?
The total value of goods and services sold through auctions in the U.S. is substantial, often exceeding $300 billion annually. For 2027, the industry is expected to maintain its robust economic contribution, adapting to new technologies and market demands to connect buyers and sellers effectively.
What are the different types of auctions?
Beyond traditional live events, 2027 sees a continued rise in hybrid and online-only auctions, catering to a global audience. These formats often feature timed bidding, proxy bidding, and simultaneous online and in-person participation, expanding the reach and efficiency of sales.
National Auctioneers Week Activities
Make a bid
You can participate in an auction without spending thousands of dollars. There are online auctions where you can buy used items, anything from laptops to furniture. You can even buy abandoned storage units and search through them. They’re sold for cheap, and you can end up finding some hidden gems and making a profit!
Advertise
Help popularize this fun and profitable method of selling goods by telling others and sharing your thoughts on social media using the hashtag #AuctionsWork.
Host an auction
Whether you have unique items or things you just don’t need anymore, you can sell them online to your local community. Make a profit on old video games, books, furniture, and other items you don’t need anymore.
5 Strange Facts About Auctions
Rome was put on auction
After the murder of Emperor Pertinax by his own guard division, the title of emperor (and essentially, the whole empire) was sold off to Didius Julianus, who only ruled for 67 days before being murdered himself.
Someone tried to sell New Zealand
In 2006, Australian comedian Isaac Butterfield put up New Zealand on eBay for 0.01 Australian dollars and reached $3,000 before it was shut down by eBay.
The gavel was once a spear
The gavel auctioneers used to announce a winner was once a spear thrown to announce the start of an auction, which is much less safe but also much more exciting!
They were timed by candles
Instead of awarding the highest bidder, auctioneers in the 1700s lit a candle in a dark room, and participants continued bidding until the candle melted with the last bidder winning.
People buy strange things
A 10-year-old girl sold a grilled cheese sandwich with the face of the Virgin Mary for $28,000, and someone sold the meaning of life for $3.26.
Why We Love National Auctioneers Week
They’re profitable
If you often browse online auctions, you’ll find some great bargains and can save up on books, video games, and household items. You can even end up finding some special edition or unique items for a great price, which you can sell or keep for yourself.
They’re charitable
Many auctions are held as charity events. Those participating donate their money to a good cause while having some friendly competition.
They’re enjoyable
Attending auctions can be a lot of fun. There’s a rush in knowing you’ve beat an opponent whilst also making a good purchase.
National Auctioneers Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | April 27–May 2 | Monday–Saturday |
| 2027 | April 26–May 1 | Monday–Saturday |
| 2028 | May 1–6 | Monday–Saturday |
| 2029 | April 30–May 5 | Monday–Saturday |
| 2030 | April 29–May 4 | Monday–Saturday |
