Today we’d like to introduce you to Richard Swartz.
Hi Richard, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Richard Swartz, the fourth-generation owner of Mano Swartz Furs, America’s oldest furrier, established in 1889. My journey began by carrying on my family’s tradition of craftsmanship, trust, and personal service—values that built our reputation for over a century.
Over time, I’ve guided Mano Swartz into the modern era while staying true to its legacy. We now help people across the U.S. sell their fur coats easily and safely through our online platform. Customers can request a free FedEx label or QR code, ship their fur, and receive a same-day offer with fast payment—often by Venmo or check.
Our other passion is hosting Unclaimed Fur Sales, where fashion lovers—especially in Baltimore, Prince George’s County, and the D.C. area—discover exquisite furs at remarkable prices. These events connect generations of style and community, reminding people that quality and elegance never go out of fashion.
Every decision we make is guided by empathy, integrity, and the desire to make luxury approachable. From helping families sell vintage mink coats to welcoming new customers looking for their first fur, my story is really about honoring the past while embracing what’s next.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road. Keeping a family business alive for more than 130 years means constantly adapting while honoring tradition. The fur industry has faced major cultural and economic shifts—from changing fashion tastes to digital disruption and the rise of online resale platforms.
When I took the reins of Mano Swartz Furs, I had to modernize how we reached customers while keeping our reputation for trust and craftsmanship. That meant building an online system so people anywhere in the U.S. could sell their fur coats safely—through free FedEx shipping labels, QR code returns, and same-day offers with fast payments.
At the same time, we launched our Unclaimed Fur Sale events in places like Baltimore, Prince George’s County, and Washington, D.C., inviting new audiences—especially fashion-forward African American women—to rediscover furs in a modern, sustainable, and affordable way.
The challenge has always been balance: blending legacy and innovation, emotional storytelling and technology, luxury and accessibility. Every obstacle became a chance to reinvent how people experience and value furs.
We’ve been impressed with Mano Swartz Furs, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Mano Swartz is America’s oldest furrier, established in 1889 and still family-owned and operated today. We specialize in two things: buying luxury fur coats from private individuals across the United States, and hosting highly anticipated Unclaimed Fur Sales where the public can purchase fine furs at exceptional values.
What truly sets us apart is how personal our work is. For many of our clients, a fur coat represents far more than fashion—it carries memories, milestones, and family history. We’re known for approaching every interaction with respect, discretion, and honesty, helping people make thoughtful decisions about something that often matters deeply to them.
On the buying side, we make the process simple, safe, and transparent. Clients receive same-day offers, fast payments, and white-glove service, whether they’re local or shipping to us from anywhere in the country. There’s no pressure and no assumptions—just clear information and straightforward guidance.
Our Unclaimed Fur Sales are equally distinctive. They’re not outlet events or liquidation gimmicks, but carefully curated collections held in trusted hotel venues, where customers can see, feel, and try on pieces in person. These sales have built a loyal following, especially among customers who appreciate quality, value, and the experience of shopping in a welcoming, respectful environment.
Brand-wise, what we’re most proud of is continuity. Mano Swartz has endured for well over a century not by chasing trends, but by earning trust—one conversation at a time, one relationship at a time. We want readers to know that when they interact with our brand, they’re dealing with a real family business rooted in tradition, fairness, and genuine care for the people we serve.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Yes. One thing we always like people to know is that our business has never really been about transactions—it’s about trust.
For more than a century, people have come to us during moments of transition: downsizing a home, settling an estate, inheriting something meaningful, or simply deciding what to do with a fur that no longer fits their life. We take that responsibility seriously. We believe listening matters as much as expertise.
Pricing:
- $128 mink capes
- $588 fur hoodies
- $788 mink coats
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ManoSwartz.com
- Instagram: @manoswartzfurs
- Facebook: @manoswartzfurs
