Don't Get Tusked: Selling Antique Ivory in Washington State
Thinking of offloading that fancy elephant tusk you inherited from your great-great-aunt Mildred? Hold your horses (or zebras, whichever is closer)! Selling antique ivory in Washington State can be trickier than deciphering Mildred's cryptic will. Fret not, intrepid seller! We'll navigate this bureaucratic jungle with a touch of humor and hopefully, no tusks confiscated.
 |
| Can You Sell Antique Ivory In Washington State |
Is My Ivory Ancient Enough to Avoid the Pokey?
Nope. Washington State has a law called the Washington Animal Trafficking Act (WATA) with a serious case of "ivory-phobia." Under WATA, selling or offering to sell elephant ivory is illegal, no matter how old it is. So, even if that tusk is older than dirt (and probably smellier), you can't hawk it legally.
But What About My Mammoth Tusk From the Ice Age? Surely That's Fair Game?
Hold on there, paleontology enthusiast! While mammoth ivory isn't illegal to sell, it can be tricky to prove it's not elephant ivory. The onus falls on you, the seller, to demonstrate its prehistoric pedigree. Unless you have a certificate of authenticity from a reputable source, you might as well try selling a snowball in, well, Washington.
Okay, Okay, I Get It. Selling Ivory is a No-Go. Are There Any Options?
Glad you asked! Here are a couple:
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
- Donation with Distinction: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service runs a program that accepts legally obtained ivory for educational purposes. Think of it as your unwanted tusk going to a good cause (besides elephant conservation, of course).
- Hold Onto History: If the ivory has sentimental value, you can keep it. Just remember, it can't leave Washington for a new home across state lines.
Remember: When in doubt, throw it out (well, not literally). Err on the side of caution and consult with a wildlife expert or lawyer before attempting any ivory-related shenanigans.
FAQ: How to Not Get Arrested for Antique Ivory
1. How to Know if My Ivory is Elephant Ivory?
Looks can be deceiving! Unless you're an ivory identification whiz, consult a professional appraiser for a definitive answer.
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
2. How to Avoid Trouble When Selling Antique Ivory Online?
 |
Many online platforms have banned ivory sales altogether. Best to stick to legal alternatives.
3. How to Donate My Ivory to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service?
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Check out their website or contact them directly for details and instructions.
4. How to Dispose of Ivory Responsibly?
Some museums or wildlife organizations might accept surrendered ivory for educational purposes. Contact them beforehand.
Tip: Summarize the post in one sentence.
5. How to Get Over My Elephant-Shaped Disappointment?
Retail therapy? Volunteer work with an elephant conservation organization? There are plenty of ways to channel your frustration!
 |
