Keys to Antique Collecting

Answer 1

Finding a great hobby is an individual venture. Anyone who enjoys the art, style, class and feel of older items might consider antique collecting as an option for a new hobby. Antiques are defined as items that are at least 100 years old or older. It can include any object such as books, jewelry, furniture or artwork. Before starting a new antique collection, understanding the keys to determining if an object is an antique, the value of the item and the likely future value will make it easier to find great deals and avoid getting ripped off.

Focus on the Type of Antique:

Antiques are widely variable in the type of items available. The definition of an antique is anything older than 100 years and it includes any item. One key to collecting antiques is the selection of a specific type of antique. For example, someone who enjoys reading and books might collect antique books while those with an interest in classic furniture might start a collection with antique furniture pieces.

The reason selecting one type of antique is a key to collecting is due to finding the value of the item. Different types of antiques are valued in a different manner. For example, the value of an antique coin depends on legitimacy, the condition of the coin, the age of the coin and the country of origin. Antique artwork would obviously differ because the artist who created the piece is usually a key factor in valuing older art. A beginning collector should always focus on one area, learn the methods of valuing the antiques and become an expert in the type of antique before adding a second category to the collection.

Asking for Help:

Like any other type of hobby collection, antique collecting might require taking the time to ask others for advice or help. Books on antiques will only give the basics. Sometimes, an expert eye is necessary to pick out antique items that are currently valuable or that will have future value that makes the item worth buying.

Any new antique collector should ask questions of older collectors before starting their search for great items. Find out what the experts suggest and get advice on the items that are personally appealing. For example, someone who wants to collect furniture might ask about which pieces retain the most value or go up in value and which antiques pieces of furniture might go down in value.

Conclusion:

Antique collecting is an interesting hobby that results in beautiful old collectibles that usually go up in value as they get older. Anyone looking for a fun new hobby that loves history or older styles of furniture, coins or art will enjoy collecting antiques.