Antiques and Collectibles - How to Value and Sell Your Old Things
97What is an Antique
Many people have valuable antiques in their homes. Whether purchased or inherited, objects 100 years old or older are considered to be antiques. Of course, plenty of people call that 1940's dining room set antique but it is not. Interesting, desirable, older objects less than 100 years old are collectibles.
When we talk about the value of an antique, we can mean several things. I greatly value the things passed down to me from loved ones and would never part with most of them as the sentimental value is too great.
Maybe I never met my great grandmother, but I look at her beautiful Flow Blue china and can touch something that she touched. The family came to the United States during the Irish Potato Famine in the mid 19th century. My great great grandfather was a laborer. So, I know that this lovely dishware meant a lot to the family. It meant that they had arrived into the middle class, that the family was established enough to spend money on a few fine things.
I remember seeing the Flow Blue at Auntie's house, how it was rarely used, but treasured, set in a bow front cabinet to be looked upon - not touched. This is the most valuable antique of all. It's priceless!
Antique Flow Blue Cup and Saucer
Antique Value - Price Guides
We can look at antique books and price guides that document various types of antiques and their values with a grain of salt.
One day while looking at Depression Glass at a lovely little shop, the proprietor and I checked out a price guide to Depression Glass values. The dealer said that she would never be able to get the stated price because the value of each piece is actually determined by how much money people are willing to pay for it. She said that she could never get the suggested prices, and this was during good economic times.
So, the value depends on the economy, the region where you are attempting to buy or sell the piece, and whether or not someone will actually want to purchase the item and whether a similar items is available in the shop right down the street. Or on EBay.
If you have antiques or collectibles (remember that Depression Glass is a collectible as it is not over 100 years old) and want to sell them to a dealer, remember that the dealer will need to make a profit. The dealer must take into account overhead costs as well. Plan on getting, maybe 1/3 of what the dealer can sell it for, not 1/3 of what is listed in the guide.
You may decide to sell an antique or collectible on EBay. If so, first you must establish yourself as a reliable dealer on that popular site so that people have confidence in the items you have for sale as well as confidence in your shipping practices. Don't forget that on EBay, there is a huge group of available buyers, but there may be stiff competition too.
Gebruder Heubach Figurine - Girl in a Pleated Dress
Value and Conditon of Antiques and Collectibles
I have a beautiful porcelain figurine of a young girl holding up the skirt of a pleated dress. Fifteen years ago, I found some information about the figure that was made in the late 1800's or early 1900's by the Gebruder Heubach Company of Thuringia, Germany (Gebruder being German for brothers). The figure can be identified by the look of it ,and the mark on the bottom, as with most valuable china and porcelain pieces. The mark is a divided circle with a sunburst on top and two over-lapped letters below.
The article suggested that the figure might sell for $500.00 in good condition. And that was 15 years ago.
Unfortunately, someone very close to me (who shall remain nameless, but you know who you are) knocked the figurine's head off some 40 years ago. The head was neatly glued back on but the damage was done. No way I would ever get anywhere near the suggested price because it is damaged.
Which brings me to:
Antique Textiles - A 200 + Year Old Sampler
The Condition of Antiques and Collectibles - Take Care of Your Old Things
Take proper care of your antiques and collectibles. Keep them out of harm's way.
Do not attempt to refinish a piece of old or antique furniture. Part of the value of an old piece is determined by it's patina, the changes that occur in the aging process. If you remove old paint or finish, you may destroy both the charm and value of the piece.
Antique Textiles, Prints, Paintings, and Photographs
Antique paintings, photographs, prints, and textiles can be destroyed by moisture, heat, and lighting conditions. Also, body oils transferred by handling can damage old things, particularly textiles and paper.
Never attempt to frame or remove an old photograph, print, painting, or textile from its frame. This is best done by a professional or an expert who knows how to handle such a fragile piece.
Do not allow someone who claims to be an expert to handle old textiles or such delicate antiques unless they are wearing gloves. If they do not wear gloves, they are not expert in the care and handling of valuable antiques.
This Lamp May Look Old But It Is Not
Do Not Assume
Just because something looks old, or someone else thinks that it is old does not mean that the item is actually old.
This lovely lamp may appear to be old or antique to some people, but was purchases at TJ Maxx in the 1980's. Not old.
Often older peices, or antiques are copied and sold just because they are so darn pretty. These reproductions can be fun to buy and use but they do not have the value of a genuine antique.
Why Have An Antique Professionally Appraised
Maybe you love your old stuff. I do. Maybe you have no desire to sell it. But it is a good idea to have it appraised for insurance purposes.
If you plan to keep your valuable antiques til the day you die, you want to ensure their safekeeping for posterity. You are treasuring history here. You do not want your dim witted son-in-law to throw the Victorian Renaissance Revival table in a dumpster or ship it off to Good Will. If the kids are not interested in keeping your antiques, they may earn some cash by selling them, something made easier for them with your written appraisal.
Do not have an object appraised by the person you want to sell it to, unless you know and absolutely trust them. An unknown or unscrupulous antique dealer may offer you $150.00 for something which sounds just fine to you. But if they turn around and sell it for $5,000.00, you might not be so happy. And there is nothing that you can do about it.
When selling your antiques through a dealer, it behooves you to establish a relationship with a trustworthy and reputable person.
More on the Value of Antiques
Certain types of antiques hold their value even in a recession or in hard economic times. Metal like bronze statues, silverware or other antique metal items can earn you a tidy sum of money.
Religious items may not get you what you want. Old things are often valued due to scarcity. People keep religious items and pass them down for years. Also, may religious people feel uncomfortable selling a religious painting or statue, especially if it has been blessed.
Face it, people don't throw Jesus in the trash can. So there are a lot of religious items around.
What with the bad economy, prices for antiques have come down. People have cut back on buying things in general. So, now is the time to buy antiques, if you are interested in them. You can pick up some real bargains.
Selling Your Antique or Collectible Item
Selling Your Antique or Collectible to a Dealer Do not have an object appraised by the person you want to sell it to, unless you know and absolutely trust them. An unknown or unscrupulous antique dealer may offer you $150.00 for something which sounds just fine to you. But when they turn around and sell it for $5,000.00, you might not be so happy. And there is nothing that you can do about it.
When selling your antiques through a dealer,
it behooves you to establish a relationship with a trustworthy and
reputable person. Talk to people you know who can recommend an antiques or collectibles dealer that they have done business with in the past.
Selling Your Antiques and Collectibles on EBay - If you plan to sell your antique or collectible on EBay, you better know what you are doing. You can't just show up one day, but need to establish your own reputation as an honest and trustworthy seller, especially if you don not have a bona fide appraisal to go along with the object that you are trying to sell. Learn the ins and outs of Ebay auctions and always use Paypal.
Create a buzz for the antique that you wish to sell by hawking on other sites including social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. Draw interest in your product by advertising, or writing articles about antiques, featuring the types of antiques or collectibles that you wish to sell.
Selling Your Antique or Collectible on Craigslist I know plenty of people who have arranged successful deal s on Craiglist both buying and selling. But there are horror stories too. If you must ,arrange to meet the buyer in a public place for your own safety. Only accept cash. Of course, you can't sell a Victorian armoire and meet the buyer in the parking lot at Denny's. Well, maybe you can, but it may be a bit cumbersome and kind of ridiculous.
Selling Your Antique or Collectible at a Consignment Shop Most consignment shops will arrange to pick up and item at your home. They generally charge 1/3 of the selling price. Pay attention to the contract and their sales practices. Some consignment shops lower the price drastically if the item does not sell in a specified amount of time. You want to be sure that you are comfortable with the lowered price.
Selling Antiques at Auction can be a good resource if you have a large collection of smaller items or one real good item. Auction can be good for you if you want to move a piece quickly, but you might not always be happy with the price.
Dear Readers - please do not put your name, phone number, or any personal information in the comments section. If you do so, the comment will not be seen as it will not be published. Remember that any kook could pester you by finding your personal info in a public forum. Also, I am not here to help you sell your items. You can do that on ebay, craigslist, or another site.
The Antique Road Shows' Top 10 Items - Dream On!
Buy Books on How to Sell Antiques
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Flow Blue China
- Flow Blue - How to ID and Value the Collectible Blue and White Antique China
Flow Blue is a highly collectible, antique blue and white china. The vintage dishware was most popular during Victorian times and has experienced several surges of popularity in the past 45 years. This...
Blue and White Spatterware and Spongeware
- Antique Spongeware and Spatterware - An American Stoneware Tradition
Blue and white vintage American stoneware is attractive and versatile. Blue and white spongeware and spatterware have been made in the Unites States for nearly 300 years and is still being produced today. ...
A 200+ Year Old Sampler
- Antique Needle Work - My Brinton Family Sampler - an 18th Century Sampler
Antique samplers are delicate and fragile. They must be cared for by someone who knows and understands how to care for old needle work and textiles. Here is the story of my old sampler, and how I came to learn about it's history.
When It's Okay to Mess Around With Old Stuff
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How to Value and Sell Paintings
- How much is my old painting worth? How to research and sell antique pictures and paintings
If you are reading this article, there's a good chance that you may have an old painting at home which is a treasured possession that you've owned for years. Alternatively you might be curious about something...
How to Decorate With Antiques
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Decorating your home with chic antiques is easy to get into but hard to master. Knowing how to get a plan in place, group particular items together and accentuate certain features of your design will all help...
Collecting Antique Oyster Plates
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This is a beginners introduction to collecting antique oyster plates. Learn the basic styles, numbers of depressions, and more popular china marks to collect....
A Wonderful Hub With More Information on Antiques
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Dr. Lori - The Popular and Controversial Antique Appraiser
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Art historian and certified antiques appraiser Dr. Lori reveals insider tips about art, antiques, museums, and auctions while telling you what your antiques are really worth.
How to Care For Old Fabrics and Textiles
- Vintage Fabrics - Living With Antique Textiles
The use of vintage fabrics can add interest to any home. Whether your decorating style is quirky, eclectic, classic, traditional, bohemian, minimalist, or organic; antique textiles lend a note of individuality...
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You wouldn't believe all of the stuff I threw away years ago thinking it was "junk."
Bohemian - thanks! I love antiques but don't know nearly enough about what I actually have. I am currently investigating some of it. That's why I wrote the hub!
Loria - my dear old Uncle Gene used to love to torture me with his recollection of bashing up his mother's old stained glass lamp. She wanted it out so she could have the 'nice modern kind.'
Some really useful tips here, I'll have to check out some of my stuff given to me by my Grandmothers, I'm sure they'll be worth something. Thanks for the tips Dolores.
Great and useful information - I know folks sometimes don't have a clue as to what they have or what it is worth!
This is good info, Dolores. Selling in the antiques and collectbles market is not for the faint of heart. It's more likely that you'll have your hopes dashed than your dreams realized, unless you make it a serious business or hobby for yourself and learn how to keep expectations realistic.
I'd like to add one more tip...you can offer your treasure through a reputable auctioneer. The auctioneer won't take your item unless it has value and will take as much as a 30% fee for services, a fee well worth it.
Voted up and useful.
MP, I don't know what most of my stuff is worth. It all has great sentimental value though. Thanks for reading!
akirchner - and conversely, a lot of people think that their old junk is worth a fortune, haha! Thanks for stopping by!
Sally - thanks for the suggestion of the auctioneer. I was going to include that but I figured that people with large collections, and dealers usually use an auctioneer. People go to auctions looking for low low prices. Thanks for reading!
You are so right...there are auctions and there are auctions. There's the Saturday event put on by a local auctioneer, where people are looking for bargains and often find them. Then there are the auctioneers who cater to antiques and collectibles buyers who will pay top dollar for a precious item. The latter were the ones I was talking about, although I see I didn't make that clear.
If you think you have a rare Art Deco diamond and platinum bracelet, you can take it to a world-class auction house (for free) and they will tell you if they want to put it up for auction. If they say they want to, then you know you have something valuable. If they say they don't want to, then you have more information about your item than you had before. You don't have to be a dealer to do this.
Excellent hub - filled with useful information. I enjoyed reading it, thanks.
Another wonderfully comprehensive Hub from you. Great read - thanks.
I love that Heubach piece!!!
Sally - I guess you are right. I should include a bit on auctions. Thank you so much for your valuable input!
Wife - thank you and thanks for commenting.
Suzie - thank you for reading and commenting. I appreciate it!
Carolina - I love it too. I am so careful with her, even though she is damaged. You can barely see the repair.
I have become an addict of antigue shows on TV. It's amazing how much information one can pick up this way. Good hub :-)
...your hubs are like antiques and collectibles - they are worth a lot to me and nice to look at - and contain extremely valuable and enlightening information in a very nice package!
Very...very..informative hub. I am glad something about antique and collectibles. We can learn about the history of things. And you give us something useful and great tips for us. I'll bookmark this one. Thank you very much. Vote Up ~prasetio
Hi, I have taken a few bits too auction, but not really made a lot of money, but I love the searching and wondering whether it is worth something! great information here, and anybody wanting to start this will find this really helpful, thanks nell
Thank you Dolores for this fascinating hub. I guess we all have something of value gathering dust in some storage room.
DeGreek - thank you! I also enjoy those Antique Roadshows, but just don't see them very often. You really get to see some cool old stuff.
epigramman - thank you so much! You are very kind. And much like my own favorite antiques, I come with cracks and chips! haha!
prasetio - thanks for reading and commenting. I appreciate the vote up!
Nell - Antiques are so darn interesting, even if you are not collecting or buying. Antiques are artifacts of history. Thanks for stopping by!
Good to see you, Richard! Most of us do. Some of us have more than others. I don't know what my kids are going to do with all my old crap when I kick the bucket. Why, the bucket itself is 80 years old!
Very interesting, Dolores, thank you. I do not know anything about antiques and collectibles but I enjoyed every word of your hub. Thanks again.
Can't even give this stuff away even on EBay. All my friends with once thriving antique shops aren't selling a thing and I live in a tourist area where people used to buy antiques. We even have a whole town that is like stepping into the past and people used to flock there from all over the U.S. to purchase antiques from those stores. Not anymore.
Ellen - thank you. Most of the antiques that I have came from family so it's hard to actually value. A lot of it has such sentimental value, I would not sell it if I could!
Bobbi - I guess that is a hard fact of the economy. Buying antiques is a luxury that few can afford. I have seen some incredible prices on my favorite things, like Flow Blue china on line, but I don't have any money either!
Another good hub on antiques! Such interesting information and facts. Thanks again for sharing your expertise! Rated up.
I have tried to sell valuables on ebay, craigslist and antique shops. Can't get anything for them.
vocal - thank you for rating this up. I really appreciate that!
Kat - one of the problems with selling these days is that so few people are buying anything. However, if you are interested in buying antiques, it is a great time as prices are low.
You have some great tips here. I am actually looking for antiques online and these tips helped a lot. Thanks!
AuntySa - well now is the time to buy. What with the poor economy and the fact that people are trying to pare down, the price of antiques has dropped. Happy hunting!
what a hub!!
i really liked it
i like Egyptian antiques and i have a few of them
I like antiques. I have a few old pieces, but I think most of what I have are collectibles. I have searched the internet and books to find out more. It is hard to gather information and everyone wants to charge you for any information they might have. Any suggestions? I need to read this article again to make sure I did not miss anything. Good article and very informative. Thanks! Teresa
moataz - oh boy, Egyptian antiques! I hope that you write a hub about them and add some pictures. I would love to see them. Thank you!
events - it does take a lot of research to learn exactly what you have. If you Google a description of what you have, you can learn a lot even from sites that are only shops. If you find something for sale that is similar to what you own, you'll find out what it's called, what it is, then you can go on and Google that. Good luck!
what would a 1950-1960 schoenhut childs piano be worth today
cathleen - I am suggesting, in this article, how to find the value of old things. It can take some work. Maybe you could Google 1950 - 1960 Schoenhut childs piano, or check it out on EBay. Good luck!
Great article. As I age, I value the older items even more. I love collecting on eBay. It is simply fascinating to see the variety. I have even purchased from the UK and Australia but oh, so, sad I do not sell very well-love each item.
I am forwarding to a friend who is curious about the value of an antique musical carousel.
Love, love your articles! Keep up the great work! You are one of my top three and the competition is stiff and I am demanding. You always deliver valuable information.
Thank you so much, Kelly. It can be hard to really find the value of an antique. You can get different suggestions from different people. The main thing is - how much is someone willing to pay for that particular antique? It takes some research.
Really amazing hub - My grandmother's house contains so many treasures. She lives in a nursing home now, but we are eager to help her sell valuable items to help pay for her care and put some extra funds aside.
Thanks for your great writing! In my view it is hard to sell your memories though is a must sometimes.
steph - unfortunately, it's not a good time to sell antiques. People are just not buying do to the poor economy. I hope you keep some of her things. I really treasure the old things that I have that belonged to family members. I think of how the grandmother I never met used the crystal sugar bowl. I can handle it and somehow it means something. Sorry that your grandmother had to go into a nursing home.
muriah - I've got piles of memories. That's why I started writing about antiques. I am working on one about vintage textiles because I have plenty of them so it's easy to find pictures! Thanks!
Dolores Monet...I'm so glad you found me!! My father once owned a furniture/antique/collectibles store, although the store closed many years ago, my father kept a lot of things from the store. My father died (3) years ago, and my brother and I were left with a lot of items to sort through. I think I have a good eye for antique verses collectible. My point sorry....this hub has provided me with options and resources that I didn't even consider.I will share this with my brother. You've done it again Dolores....Thank You!!!!!
imatellmuva - but it can be hard to sell the things that your parents treasured. But if they are things left over from a shop, well, good luck!
WOW!! What an informative hub! One that I am sure to come back to again and again!! So much to learn from just one hub! Thank you so much!! Voted Up, Useful and totally AWESOME!!
azure - thank you! I love antiques, my house is full of them - and though I could not buy any now ( no money, no more room, haha) the interest is still there. Antiques inform us of the past.
Wonderful information and help. I will definitely think twice before I get rid of anything that is "old".
Thanks for the g8 info on the antiques, U can really make money by selling antiques.
chariot race by von wagner,twlight by ff english, anheuser bush first edition 1972 solid syerling silver plate, i would like to know the value of these items
Have an old wooden ironing board. Was wondering if its worth anything
Ray - ? What, you think you are going to get a free online appraisal from me? I am not a professional antique appraiser but a collector who worked for a seller at one time. Try Googling your description. That sounds like a very interesting piece.
Ray - why don't you visit the anheuzer bush site. If they don't have the info you want, email them and ask where you could find about it.
Glenda - I've seen old wooden ironing boards priced from between $20.00 - $300.00, depending on age, condition, and what a buyer is willing to spend. I have one myself. It's 100 years old or older and belonged to my great grand mother. It's beautiful and I should really hang it on a wall for display.
I have some religious item that are quite old including a Last Rite's kit thats about 150 years old would that be worth anything?
hi Dolores - I loved your hub. It's amazing what people have in their houses without being aware of what it's worth. Having cleared out my attic recently there was definitely only junk - I'll have to keep searching for that elusive old master.
Denise - I've seen Last Rite's kits on eBay for up to $200.00, depending on rarity, age,condition, and uniqueness of the piece. As stated in the above article, people just don't throw out religious items. They stay in families for a long time and there are plenty of them around. Plus, you're not really supposed to sell something that has been blessed. Thanks!
Firefly - haha, sure got a lot of that. I am saving it all up for a super duper yard sale, but the yard sale don't happen and the stuff is piling up. Thanks!
how much would a first edition SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO. BOOK be worth and also how much can a limited edition "WISDOM" The magazine of knowledge for lifetime learning and education.
shavonte - if you mean a vintage sears and roebuck catalog, it would depend on the year and condition. There have been tons of reprints of those old catalogs and books which may lead to some confusion. You may want to check out a site that specializes in vintage catalogs and books for a sensible appraisal or even a rough idea of value. Thanks for reading!
I love the antiques road show, and have watched the program for years. Your article gives some very valuable information, thank you for sharing.
I've got a bunch of old junk but it's just that -- junk.
That is a great deal of information on antiques. I love watching Antique Roadshow. It is one of my favorites. Thanks for such an in-depth piece!
adrienne - I love it too, though I rarely watch it. The old stuff is fascinating, artifacts of our cultural history. Thanks!
safety - oh boy, don't get me started thinking about all the old junk we have around here. I feel like a borderline hoarder. Thanks.
hava - I wish I could see your name but the commentater level label is getting in the way. Glad you enjoyed!
I have a 1947 display cabinet my partner has restored and a grand piano which was made in the 1800 was wanting to find out how I go about finding out what they would be worth any help would be fantastic thank you
Kellie - your piano was made in 1800? Wow! Very few pianos were made then compared to later in the century. Piano values depend on condition, sound, age, maker, etc. Look for a piano technition in your area for reliable info. You will not find the information you seek online.
The display cabinet may have been harmed by restoration if that means that you stripped it of it's original varnish. Furniture made in 1947 is not an antique.
Thank you.
I love antiques and have many. Cannot find anyone to appraise them though.
texasgirl - you can ask a local antiques dealer, or look in your yellow pages, or search online for an appraiser in your area. Also, ask friends or relatives if they have had antiques appraised and who did the appraisal for them. Good luck! Of course, if you don't want or need an official appraisal, you can check out online dealers and see what they are asking for items that are similar in condition and age to yours.
Hi Dolores, I enjoyed your article. It was very interesting. I had a shop several years ago. When we closed, we kept the real treasures that were left and had an auction. The auctioneer advertised it as an antique auction and people came from quite far away.
I also have some things that I would never get the appraised value for. I have a Depression Glass punch bowl set with all pieces intact, including glass ladle. No chips. 30 years ago, I bought it from a woman who had gotten it as a wedding present, boxed it up and put it in the attic. She finally got it out and sold it for $7.00.I didn't know anything about antiques then but my mom's friend looked at it and told me $300 then. I understand that 10% per year is normal but I don't believe that I will get $1100 for it. Punch bowl sets just don't sell.
I also have a crazy quilt that my great-grandmother made in 1905. It was never used and is made of velvets and satins. Her name and the date are embroidered in one corner. She won a prize at the county fair for it and put it in a trunk, where it has stayed. I take it out and refold it in the white cotton sheet every so often and it looks like brand new. The material gives it away though.
In the 1970s my mother, who came of age during the Depression, thought she'd gotten one over on a local antique dealer when he bought from her 12 place settings (with serving pieces) of Carnival (Depression) glass for $15. She'd got them for free in the 1930s from boxes of detergent and gas station giveaways, had NO idea what a "hot" item Depression glass was 40 years later, and was thrilled that *anybody* would want to buy them, for any amount of money. To add insult to injury, the antique dealer was a member of her church and took advantage of the fact that Mother wasn't the sharpest pencil in the box. She wouldn't believe she'd been had until I took her to his shop a few days later and she saw her "free" Depression glass prominently displayed with a price tag of *$400*. Being a complete set in pristine condition, I've no doubt that's what it sold for.
Becky - the quilt sounds beautiful. What a wonderful piece to have, especially with your great grandmother's name and date on it. A real treasure. I too love Depression Glass. At Christmas, I place mine on a hutch, back-lit with those tiny Christmas lights. It looks so pretty! Thanks!
JamaGenee - well you have to know what you have. So many of us have stories like that. But if your mother got anything for it, it's better than giving it away to Good Will. I've seen some really nice pieces at thrift shops for next to nothing. But it does seem unfair. That's business for you! Thanks for sharing the story, a good warning for us all.
Great job on your page. I'll have to show this to my mom. She loves this kind of stuff. Have a great day.
Very comprehensive, well written and interesting article about how to value and sell antiques and collectibles. I don't collect or sell these items but have a close relative who buys them and enjoy going into antique stores with him because he usually knows the story behind many of the items that are on display.
Congratulations on the Hub of the Day award. Am voting this up across the board except for funny.
Well written hub. I'm sure lots of people are thinking of selling their antiques and collectibles in today's economy.
Well my mom too is fan of collecting antiques and she has so much in her collection . Great hub there by you and i understand the value of it as my mom has made me realize it million times
My husband used to college Andrea bird figurines by Sadek (sp?) I have probably 3 dozen in my attic that have been kept in boxes for 15 years because we have no place to display them. I'd love to sell them but can never find any info on them. I"ll keep looking though - would hate to just sell them at a garage sale without knowing what, if anything, they are worth.
My mother in law also gave us a number of antiques over the years which I have no intention of selling.
Nice hub, lots of good info here with personal stories and an information video.
Great hub! I sure didn't know the distinction between antique and collectible. Very interesting. I have lots of knicks-knacks I've inherited or picked up from flea markets over the years. I'm hoping one day that something is worth a good chunk--and could be my retirement nest egg! haha. I enjoyed your sense of humor that came out in this hub, too!
First, congratulations on Hub of the Day! Good job!
I watch such things as "Antiques Roadshow," and also "Pawn Stars." It amazes me how many people walk into the pawn shop and expect to sell their item to the shop for full retail!
I have a LOT of antiques--but I doubt much of it is worth anything at all. First, the majority of my items bear no maker's mark, so they are virtually impossible to look up in reference books. Second, I'm not all that personally interested in the antique market--I don't care to make a study of the subject, so I must rely on outside sources. Next, when I called the auction house (only one large, reputable firm is local), they wanted $300 PER HOUR to come and appraise, with a 2-HOUR MINIMUM!!! WTH??!! I don't have that kind of money to spend on having things appraised that may or may not end up worth anything at all.
So, my great-great-great grandmother's tea set will end up with one of my kids....and it's probably worthless, anyhow--again--no maker's mark, and it was obviously a set in use for daily service--pieces are missing; others have been glued back together, etc. The only thing going for it is a full provenance.
My husband and I did recently restore an old entry hall table....but, the damage had already been done to any value it may have had when my mother re-decorated and painted it white back in the 1960's...
But there are so many more items! Dump truck? Here I come!
Wonderful advice for all treasure collectors ;) Congrats on being Hub of the Day!!
Awesome Hub! There is something incredibly sexy about antiques. There are many antiques in my family but the only one I have is a Pearl Brooch which belonged to my Grand Mother. I would never sell it for any price.
My collectibles and antiques all are family pieces that I have inherited. I love watching Antiques Roadshow and your hub was very interesting. Congratulations on getting hub of the day! Well deserved!
hi, Dolores... you hub is simply addicting..detailed and interesting
I have a silver plate dish with a lid that I don't know what it is...I have looked all over the internet for something similar to it, but no luck. If I send you a picture, could you help me find out what it is called?
misterumbe - thank you!
Cathy - although I do love old silver and silver plate and have some little knowledge of it, the significant word is "little." I am not a professional appraiser and, if you sent me a picture, well, I'd have to do quite a search myself. If I were you, I'd Google a brief description of what I had, then look on images to see if you find something similar to what you have. Remember that silver plate will be less valuable than sterling silver.
I have a ironing board that was made in the 1800 would that be worth anything ?
Movie Man - not sure if they even made what we call ironing boards in 1800. The first US patent for a folding ironing board appeared in the middle of the century. Before that, people used a board between two chairs, or an ironing table.
You need to find someone who can look at your piece and date it correctly. Remember, if the ironing board has been refinished, or damaged, it will be of less value than one in its original condition.
This is a very useful and well-written hub Dolores Monet. I didn't know the fine distinction between an antique and a collectible until I stumbled on your hub. You also have a lot of very useful tips and advice here. I love going around yard sales and to flea markets during our travels or foreign posting to search for antiques and collectibles. Thank you for sharing your knowledge on this topic.
moiragallaga - thank you! I love the old stuff, both antiques and collectibles and hope to provide a brief introduction here.
Hello, I have boxes full of 30 years worth of "collectibles.' Lots of wind up toys in their original boxes. All different kinds of other things that I bought because I liked them. My husband and I are in the process of downsizing and I want to sell all of my collectibles. I do not want to spend the time selling them on ebay etc.. Do you know of someone in the Chicago area who may want to buy everything? Thanks so much for any advice you can provide.
Cally Ann - the problem is, I think a lot of people are in the same boat - downsizing all the stuff we've piled up over the years. I don't know one single person in Chicago! Maybe you could try Craigslist....Good luck!
Great ,I have some and I want to sell it..You can try ebay too
HI I AM FROM INDIA DELHI I HAVE SHANKAR THE GREAT CARTONIST NEWS PAPER CARTON COLATION OF 1932
I have a 1969 Grit news paper,wish i knew how much its worth???
I have a pristine 1965 firestone featherweight bike it is in almost mint condition anyone know the worth?
Bryan - I've seen a pristine 1965 featherweight bike appraised for between $1,000 - $3,000. But, of course, it all depends if someone wants to buy it and how much they are actually willing to spend. It's a beautiful bike! I wish you luck!
Cathy - hi! I am not sure what you are talking about. Is this a team paddle? A boat paddle? I've seen some old wooden Scandanavian paddles online, made in the early 1900's for between $40.00 and $80.00. But not sure what you mean.
Sorry that I denied your comment, but you listed your name and a phone number - not a good idea to do that in a public forum where anyone can see it.
This is such valuable information. I have many antiques and collectables. Now I am equipped to find their value.
I have 25 signed/hand painted Porcelain Garden Birds Thimbles with an information folder for each one. How do I value these/this?
tcarrithers - why don't you go to the Franklin Porcelain Garden Birds site (if they are the ones I think they are) or check them out on ebay?
Very good information here. will be sharing
I have an 100 year old German book, titled " Shelter in that that you learned." It's in complete German and is in fair condition. I think the book is more of a bible. I've done some translating and that would be my best guess. I was wondering how much would it's worth.
Gerald - I think your best bet would be to take it to a book appraiser or take it to a book store that specializes in older books. It sounds lovely, written in the old German script. Very cool.
Thank you for this very informative Hub.It is great for experienced folks to offer valuable information to new collectors dealers and down-sizers. I shared this post with the members.
My husband was given a Danbury Mint Life of Jesus medal collection when his dad died. He told me he remembered him looking at them and would only take them out with a glove on. So they would have no oil's or dirt of any kind on them. I can't seem to find any information on them any where. We were wanting to know the release date and the value. And yes I have contacted the Danbury mint and they have no information to offer. So if anyone can help I'd sure appreciate it. Thanks, Belinda
Belinda - have you checked Franklin mint? They posted some info on your medals, but without dates. Information can be hard to obtain and you just gotta stick with it. Good luck!
i have an ancient armoire from china it is between 300 and 700 yrs old =, not quite surre. It was two of them one over 700 and the other over 300yrs old. Some one took one not sure which was which. Also a rosewood corner from korea over 300yrs old also. Finally i have two prints 300 yrs old (chineese) can someone points me to a source that specialize in such art. I have no clue, also what the estimated values would be.
congoman - I find it odd that someone could own something that old and not know anything about it. Usually people who own very old things have some idea of the age and value. Check your local antique appraisers and see if you can find someone who specializes in Oriental antiques. Of course you would have to pay a fee for this service. You can also google a description of each item and see what comes up in images, then follow the image. There are tons of reproductions out there too, so a real appraiser may be your best bet as they will know if your piece is actually what you think it is.
My mother left me with a 48" by 24" original painting of RueDeChevalier purchased in the 50s. It is signed DeCurtis. I originally thought it was Linda DeCurtis but after speaking to her found out that it was actually her brother Ernesto. Any ideas of how to market this piece would be appreciated
nclady - the only Ernesto De Curtis I ever heard of was an Italian composer so no help there. If you speak to Linda DeCurtis why don't you ask her for more information or where you could find more information. Perhaps you could email her. Since it's the work of her own brother, seems like she wouldn't mind pointing you in the right direction. Otherwise, contact an art appraiser who specializes in paintings of the style and time. Thanks and good luck!
hi dolores so interesting reading all these comments, i have a lot of antique furniture which was my nans she recently died,i have also come across 2 tape measures one is small and one great big one they are round wooden tape measures dated 1853 and also a very old looking wooden ruler in a case and just wondered if u have any idea if they are antique thankyou greatful for any information that u may know
I have a chinese ornament nit sure if lady or man carrying sonething i was given it by a chinese family for good luck but i am wondering what if anything if it could be of any value
kerry - anything over 100 years old is an antique.
maxine - check it out on Google - describe the ornament and look in images, an easy way to find something similar.
I had to smile when I saw the Egyptian-themed lamp above. I purchased my two in 1999 and they were about $400 each!! I was relatively young and money was scarce so this was like a huge purchase for me. I love those lamps to this day! LOL. They are very well-crafted with stain glass and not mass produced so hopefully they will mean something to someone else when I am gone.
kath - I feel like anything that is well crafted has staying power and will hold it's value. Besides, value is what an item is worth to you, not to someone else, expert or not. I got mine at TJMaxx!
I have recently begun antiquing and I had no idea that anything older than 100 years old was an antique but anything less is a collectible. Thanks for your tips!
An informative and helpful hub! You spoke like an antique expert! The points and views presented by you are extremely detailed and clearly explained! Your antiques are beautiful! This hub of yours is comprehensive and insightful! Belated congrats on the hub of the day! Well-done!
Thanks for SHARING. Pressed all the buttons. Voted up and Socially Shared.
tyler - thank you. Anything less than 100 years old is considered a collectible and can be quite valuable in itself.
ishwaryaa22 - thank you! Took a look above and have decided that there are not enough pix! Need more! And I am no expert. An expert has real knowledge of many types of items and periods and knows how to date things quickly.
Whenever I find something that I think could be a collector's item, I just google it on my phone. It usually pulls up ebay listings and gives you a good idea of what they usually go for. Great hub here!
Pinkchic18 - yes. I like to put in a brief description and check out Google images. That way, you have access to articles as well as Ebay. Thank you!
Bohemian rhapsody 20 months ago
What a useful hub, I must admit I'm not the expert on antiques in the family; my mother is, but this opened my eyes to the many ins an outs of buying ,selling and appraisal. Thanks much.