Antiques have long been a part of our culture. Items are handed down through generations, some with special emotional meaning, some as heirlooms, some as valuable investments. They can be bought and sold at garage sales, on eBay, or at auctions.
Some antiques are only valuable to those who are in possession of them. This should not detract any meaning from the possession or collection of antiques for the individual though. One might go so far as to say that every antique or collectible possesses its own intrinsic value, and that in fact the show has had a detrimental effect on the collection of antiques. Collecting should be a passion first, and the idea that it should be for profit somewhat cheapens it.
If you are thinking about starting to collect antiques, there is a whole world out there for you to explore and enjoy. You will probably find it hard to believe the abundant opportunities open to the antique collector. Antiques can be found at garage sales, on eBay, at auctions, and at special collector’s shows. A great place to look for antiques is the home of older relatives, and more often than not they are pleased to show you around!
Before you go out and start gathering anything that is older than Law & Order, however, you should decide on what it is that you would like to collect. Perhaps you are only looking for a grandfather clock to add a little oomph as the centerpiece in your sitting room. Maybe you have decided that you would like to look for old military badges and awards. A great place to find an idea is collector’s shows. At these shows, there are often varied displays of the collections of people who have been practicing the hobby for years, and you just might find an idea that is so appealing that you will want to start right away. Odds are you are in the right spot, as most of the collectors also have items for sale or trade.
Collecting antiques is a great hobby that never gets old. You should not begin with ideas in your head about discovering riches along the way. Antiques often have to be in peak condition, and collections must include every piece, before they are appraised at any real value. Most expensive antiques are not a surprise to their owners, as they were usually expensive to get in the first place. Begin your antique collecting experience because it is something fun and new for you to do. Any dreams of windfalls should be a distant thought, and never the driving force, behind your new pursuit.
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Are you collecting for investment purposes? Just because something is old does not mean it will hold its value over time. In the recent recession lots of collectibles lost 50 percent or more of their value.
Collect because you like the pieces you are collecting. Antiques generally are 50 years or older so you may collect something 20 years old simply because you like it.
Own it because you want to own it and not because it is old.
Lladro