Whether intentional or not, most people have a tendency to collect things and to ‘hold on’ to older items. Sometimes the items are inherited, other times they are things that have a special meaning or memory attached to them. Either way, the average homeowner has at least a few vintage items hidden away in a closet or stored under the bed. The luckier ones will even have a true antique or two tucked away.
Antique or Vintage
There seems to be quite a debate over the definitions of antique and vintage. Some people say that an item has to be 100 years old to be considered an antique. However, in recent times that requirement has been criticized. Nowadays, most things that are 50 to 75 years old are considered antiques. In comparison, the word ‘vintage’ is used to described items that are at least 20 years old.
As you can see, these definitions are rather fluid, but obviously, true antiques are generally more valuable than vintage items. Of course, the condition of the item and other issues must also be considered when determining its worth. This is very true when discussing things like coins, stamps and old sports cards. Visit CollectorsCorner.com to get an idea of the value of these types of items. This site and other resources will help you learn how coin dates, mint marks, wear, and other criteria are used to determine the grade and actual worth of coins.
A trip to a quality online vintage shop can help you determine the value of old clothing and accessory items. The condition of vintage clothing plays a huge role in determining its value. Brand names are also an important factor. In addition to everyday clothing and vintage formal wear, there is a strong market for older military attire.
The Internet is a great place to find references and advice regarding vintage items and antiques. Whether you have a room full of furniture, a single piece of jewelry, or your childhood collection of baseball cards, start your research online.
Trash or Treasure
Most people are confused about what to do with ‘all the stuff’ they have. This becomes a real issue when moving or when dealing with an estate liquidation. The primary concerns are determining what ‘stuff’ to keep, what things are valuable and what is nothing more than trash.
From pennies to dimes and silver dollars, American coins will always have value. Quality Asian items like vases, jade, silk paintings, and ivory and stone carvings are in demand. But those are just examples of some of the things that are valuable. When it comes to older items you should always keep in mind the saying ‘One man’s junk is another man’s treasure’. Always have an open mind about the worth of those ‘old things’ you’ve been keeping!
