Need to do a Little Antique Research?Need to do a little antique research on your own before you go to that antique appraiser?
Perhaps you have some old documents tucked away in a drawer. Do they hold any antique value? Who knows? Those old documents could even be historical documents. Perhaps, like us, antique collecting is just a hobby of yours. So how do you know if any of those vintage collectables have any antique value?
We'll give you a few places to help you get started. Once you get your feet wet, you'll find all kinds of information, all by yourself! We have discovered that researching your "new-found" treasure can be fun and rewarding in itself! We have learned a great deal on many topics, by doing so. Chances are, you might even become drawn into a whole new area of antique collecting. At the very least, you will be educating yourself and increasing your knowledge. That can pay off in the long run! Let's go "Old School" First!Libraries - It sounds so simple, but why not start out by visiting your local library? Been there lately? Libraries have a wealth of information...and, they have something even better than that! Librarians!
Librarians are trained professionals in helping you find what you're looking for! Ask them! Challenge them! And then, make sure to thank them! You can do a little research on your own too! Type in your specific topic on one of their computers! Go find a few interesting books, find a "comfy" spot, and "dig-in"! NOTHING replaces product knowledge! Learning more about your attic treasure will help you to better understand its value! And, it might even be interesting! Here's a few good books on antiques for your consideration... Price GuidesPrice Guides - While you're at the library, don't forget to look up your paper keepsake in an antique price guide. Most libraries will have one or more to chose from.Kovels' is a famous name when it comes to antique research and prices. Check out Kovels' Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide. Miller's Antiques Price Guide is another excellent source. Either way, you are sure to find some helpful information. Keep in mind one very important fact. Do not expect to sell your item for the same exact price as is listed in any price guide! These guides are intended to be used as a reference only. Find a similar item to the one you have, and use that price as a guide only in making your final decision! Museums, Colleges, and Historical SocietiesMuseums - Museums are great! We absolutely love them! (Most kids do too!) But can you research your paper collectible at a museum? Sure!
Let's say you have an old map that Uncle Charlie gave you last year at the family reunion. (He knows you like that stuff!) But little did you know...Uncle Charlie got that map from his grandfather, who in turn, got it from his grandfather! This is an old map! Perhaps, it is even a valuable map! Most museums will have a Preservation Officer in charge of this sort of thing! Call ahead to find out! Set up an appointment to meet with them and discuss your collectible. Keep in mind, however, they are not going to give you a specific value! Nonetheless, it is a great place to add to your antique research search...so to speak. But, what did we say earlier? Nothing replaces product knowledge! Colleges - Same as above! Make a couple of phone calls, find the right person, and try to set up an appointment. Most major Colleges and Universities should be able to help you with some valuable information and/or additional ideas for you to investigate! Historical Societies - Most states and larger cities have historical societies. Visit one, or many! Once again, if your paper treasure is vintage, then you may be able to gather some valuable antique research information. Plus, while you're there, take a close look at how they are displaying their paper treasures. Ask them for tips on how to preserve them, too! All of information adds to your product knowledge! Antique Appraiser'sWe won't spend a lot of time on this topic...here! Why? Because we have dedicated an entire page to this topic. Go check it out!Needless to say, an antique appraiser. is an excellent source of information, and, they can give you a value! Original SourceWhy not go to the original source of your collectible? While this is not always possible, you may be surprised at how far you can go!Where did you get your collectible? From a family member? Ask them what they know about it! Perhaps, that is all the antique research that you need, if your item is a personal family treasure! Is your collectible marked in any way? Look it over closely! Is there a manufacture name stamped anywhere? Contact the manufacture, or do some research on them, if they have went out of business. Knowledge!
Random Notes...Antique research sounds intimidating! It sounds like a lot of work, doesn't it? But, with the help of a few books, and a few new friends, you will be well on your way to finding the value of your attic treasures. Our Advice? Make it fun! Trying to track down information on one of your favorite collectibles can be a challenge; but it can also be fun! Go check out one of your local museums, or even make it into a family vacation. Return From Antique Research to Antique Appraisal
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