Proof of authenticity and/or of past original ownership when used with antiques such as Mitchell Reels. These are normally letters of authenticity from the owners and absolutely never hearsay or rumors. Provenance can also be established by memories of those who were there or by close and exact examination by an expert of known existing reels. Correct serial numbers also establishes Provenance in most cases but not all. All Mitchell reels with Provenance are far more valuable than those without.