Books, Posters, Magazines, Stamps, Postcards, Fine Art & Paper Ephemera
The history of human beings has been drawn on cave walls, stone and paper of all sorts. Books, Posters, Magazines, Postage Stamps, Postcards, Fine Art, Newspaper, Photographs and many more. Whilst the internet is currently the most frequently used and convenient resource, the information on the humble paper or canvas remains supreme. As with all antique items, the carbon footprint to produce them has long since passed into history. The paper books, postage stamps, postcards, fine art and paper ephemera are all relics of days gone by that we may have to rely upon in the future for our knowledge and history. What makes a paper item valuable? The author, painter, subject, date, binding, framing, distinctive illustrations, provenance, rarity, edition, printing, usefulness – or any combination of these – are all factors in determining the value of a paper item, but above all, the item must be complete and in good condition.
Subcategories
Books Article Count: 5
What makes a book valuable? The author, subject, date, binding, distinctive illustrations, provenance, rarity, edition, printing, usefulness – or any combination of these – are all factors in determining the value of a volume, but above all, the book and its dust jacket must be complete and in good condition. From modern first editions to tales of discovery, the scope for the book collector is enormous. Whatever your interest or depth of pocket, there are sure to be books that fit.
Fine Art & Artists Article Count: 2
Pleasure should always be the deciding factor when buying a picture. It is only by satisfying this purely subjective need, and having to live with the result, that you can build up a really interesting collection. It is for this reason that collectors will constantly rehang or sell part of their collection in exchange for new acquisitions. For an individuals taste is constantly developing, this development should be based upon the attitude that all pictures are interesting, but some are more interesting than others. As the eye becomes more experienced it should be constantly appreciating good quality in mediocre paintings whilst marvelling at, when possible buying, paintings which fulfil all expectations.
Post Cards, Trade Cards, Visit Cards Article Count: 0
One collecting area that is underrated is postcard, visit and trade card collecting. Collecting these items, especially vintage cards or those from a well known person, can be fun, and financially rewarding. The most valuable postcards are those that were made before 1930 which are called “pre-linen”. Cards from that time to the mid 1940s are also in demand. Unless one is very well versed and trained in the art of collecting postcards they may have no idea of how valuable the items may be and in the case of buying them at art auctions they are usually not even announced as part of the available items for sale. This is great for you if you are knowledgeable since you will be able to reap the benefits of knowing what the postcards are actually worth and potentially pick up a great collection relatively cheaply. If you want to get into a fun and very educational hobby then collecting postcards may be for you and if you have children they may find it fun as well. Post cards are relatively cheap to buy, most starting around a pound or so. You can pick up collections at auction and never know what you might find there! Some sell for hundreds but they are rare, but in your search you may find one. Beware of reproductions, obviously, a used and stamped postcard is the best guarantee of authenticity.