What’s hot and what’s not in the antique world
Collecting antiques is a fun and adventurous hobby. If you are doing it purely for pleasure, we always advise you to collect what you love. However, if you are collecting for value purposes, you should know what to be on the lookout for when you begin.
There are many significant trends that are hot in collecting but these trends change often. For right now, let’s take a look at what’s hot and what’s not in the antique collecting world.
What’s hot?
World War I memorabilia
Objects and memorabilia from the Great War are at the height of their popularity as they have reached their 100th anniversary. Look for unusual objects in good condition that were used during the war.
Travel posters
Travel posters featuring historic sites like Pompeii, fabulous cities like Monte Carlo, and quiet getaways like the Poconos are all the rage right now. Popular with collectors are cruise line posters featuring ocean liners and coastal maps from Holland America and other well-known lines. Likewise, railway and railroad posters advertising famous routes, new locomotives, and regional lines are bringing in big bucks from seasoned collectors. Look for posts of thick paper, quality prints, bright colors, Art Deco and Art Nouveau designs, and no creases, folds, or stains.
Mid-century modern
This trend is not going away. Accept no substitutes, knock-offs, and no contemporary versions of mid-century looks unless they are so high end and well crafted that you simply can’t refuse. If you are a mid-century modern lover, it is hot for 2019 and only getting hotter!
What’s not?
Stamps
Stamps were once considered a great investment and an even better collectible. General stamp collecting, however, has been on a downward trend for some time now. Younger generations just aren’t latching on to it. If you are lucky enough to own a very rare and valuable piece you can pretty much set your own price or let an auction house set it for you. If you are holding onto stamps for historic significance and not an investment, you have the right idea here.
Coins and currency
Ever since the financial crisis and eventual collapse in prices of silver and gold, interest in coins and currency (anything other than rare) has been down.
Cast-iron collectibles
Mechanical banks and most other cast-iron collectibles, with a few exceptions, continue to lag behind their record highs achieved years ago. Any of these items outside of the rarest of the rare are not doing well because there is just no interest.
As we always tell you here at Antique Allure, unless you are really into antiques to profit, buy what you like and enjoy your finds. The best part about antiquing is the thrill of the hunt. And you never know what that hunt is going to bring you! Enjoy your antique collecting no matter what it is that excites you.