Days Gone

If you are a collector of antique toys, you will be in seventh heaven at the choices available today. These collections deserve to be shown off, where they can be admired by visitors and friends as well as your own family. There are thousands of antique toys for sale online at any one time. It's great to know that you can add to your collection, and also find out the worth of pieces you already have. What do you think is the number one collectible toy? If you said Barbie, well done! The popularity if this busty blonde shows no sign of diminishing, and keeping them in their original boxes will make them very valuable in the future. My sister is a Barbie nut, and has everyone ever made. When I was...

How do we know if a toy is considered an antique or vintage toy? There are no fixed regulations or rules that will grant the status of vintage on any toy, but there are some shared characteristics. Antique toys are usually out of production toys. But simply being out of production doesn't make them grant them the antique toy status. Rather, these toys have to be in demand as well. Sometimes, toys are put out of production simply because nobody wants them. So the toy manufacturers stopped manufacturing them. These are not the items that we are looking for. So what would be some desirable traits for an antique toy to possess? For one, antique toys should be in demand items. For example, toys that are...

One of the most attractive and interesting things that you can collect are antique toys. There are so many available at the minute that you could well be spoilt for choice. A great collection looks fabulous on display for visitors to admire. All toy collectors have particular favorite, and regularly scour the online sites to add to their collection. It's also a good way to find out how valuable pieces that you already have are. If you have a few old Barbie dolls knocking around that are still in their original boxes, you have some valuable pieces in your collection. The humble Barbie is still the number one collectible toy, and looking after them and keeping them in their boxes will make their value...

Barbie was first released by Mattel in 1959 and since the earliest Barbie doll had her hair pulled back in a Ponytail, she is referred to as the Ponytail Barbie by vintage Barbie collectors. There are six different incarnations of the Ponytail Barbie and so she is referred to by her number, i.e. #1 Ponytail Barbie or #2 Ponytail, etc. What follows is a brief guide to identifying each one as the differences between them are usually subtle, but hugely significant to value. #1 Ponytail Barbie The #1 Ponytail Barbie can be either blonde or brunette. More blonde dolls were made so the brunette is more valuable. Her hair is tied back in a ponytail and she has curled bangs. Her irises are white and her...

Making a stir in fashion world, antique jewelries are admired by almost everyone who loves to walk with the latest fashion trend. Flaunting beauty of the era, which is only in the pages of history or memories now, these jewelries are best example of elegance and perfect designing. Dealing with no attire-constraint, an antique jewelry looks perfect with almost every dress. Nowadays, when fashion world is altering its move with a rapid speed, antique ornaments are only stable accessories. Attracting people of almost every age, these jewelries can be matched with anything whether it is your denim or an ethnic evening gown. It is said that jewelry deals with a history of more than 5,000 years; hence, it...

  Most people imagine that the word “antique” speak about only older generations. And that, only oldies are fascinated in or have the required aptitude, knowledge, skill and expertise about antiques and everything related to it. But in realism, the scene is much different. Nearly every antique owner shows the signs of being attracted towards antique from quiet juvenile age. So, it’s not all fair to say that, only senior populace are antiques lover and devotee. Though, they may hold the majority. It’s evident that they’ve spent their whole life in becoming a classic antiques possessor. It’s on the part of this generation to inculcate the hobby and passion for such timeless legacy. As...

To some people, collectibles are nothing more than a set of useless items that serve no purpose; after all, who needs ten sets of salt and pepper shakers or fifty snow globes? But to those who do actually have an interest in them, antique collectibles especially can be very valuable. While many have no real purpose or usefulness, they have a special interest to those who do collect and keep them. If you are interested in buying or selling antique collectibles you may wonder just what type are most popular and which ones are the best sellers. After all, most who get involved with antiques are in it to make some money so why waste time on those that no one wants? It's important to remember that there...

In this article we're going to cover one of the rarest collectible dolls in history, the classic Mike Hazard Double Agent. During the 1960s, cloak and dagger and spy stuff was all the wave with shows like Mission Impossible, The Man From Uncle, I Spy and of course movies like James Bond. Well, the toy companies took care of their end as well. One of the most popular dolls of that era was Mike Hazard, Double Agent which was manufactured by Louis Mark Company in 1967. The doll was 12 inches in height and was solid as a rock. The body was made of very hard plastic. If you were to hit somebody over the head with this doll you would probably give them a concussion. This was the most solidly put...

In this series of articles on collectible dolls we're going to start by reviewing one of the most famous collectible dolls of all time, the Cabbage Patch Kids. If you're old, or maybe even not that old, you remember the Cabbage Patch Kids. What you probably don't know is what happened to these once hot items that have all but disappeared. The first Cabbage Patch Kids were created by a man by the name of Xavier Roberts. He began making his dolls through his very own Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland, Georgia in the year 1979. His "sales" pitch was to display the dolls in kind of a hospital like setting and putting up a sign saying that they were "up for adoption". He made these dolls look...

The term "collectible" is a very broad one and can include almost anything you can imagine. However, collectible dolls are collected more frequently than any other type of collectible. Because of this, dolls are often what people associate with the word "collectibles". If you collect dolls or are interested in collecting them, it is important that you educate yourself about them as much as possible. One thing you should learn is how to protect your investment by caring properly for your collectible dolls. This will allow you to keep your doll in perfect condition, and possibly sell it for a profit at a later date. When you buy your doll and bring it home, you should not remove it by tearing the...

Almost every little girl loves dolls, but many of us carry the love of dolls into adulthood. Collectible dolls are for those of us that still love dolls, despite our age. Dolls come in all shapes and sizes, and a good many of them aren't for little girls. In fact, some of the most collectible dolls are not made for children at all. Every little detail makes the doll special, and one of a kind. If you have depleted your local source of collectible dolls, you can turn to the Internet and find some fabulous limited edition, one of a kind, and simply beautiful dolls. Porcelain Dolls Porcelain dolls are one of the most widely collected dolls. The reason for this is that real human characteristics can be...

In this article we're going to review one of the most unique collectible dolls that was ever made, or not made depending on how you look at it. The one and only Mr. Potato Head. Most collectible dolls come put together. That is pretty much the way of the world. But Mr. Potato Head was a collectible doll of a completely different breed. This was a doll that you put together any way that you liked and could make him look just about any way you wanted. This was a truly unique concept, Mr. Potato Head was patented in 1952. That's right, patented. That's how unique the concept was at the time and even to this day. The doll was invented by a George Lerner in New York City (where else?) which was...

The Byzantine Empire, also popular as the Eastern Roman Empire, lasted for 2000 years approximately. People also called it as 'Constantine's city' after the Emperor made it the capital of the Roman Empire. Later, it became one of the world's most cultured and richest cities. During this period, art and architecture flourished and a wide range of Byzantine antiquities were made. Byzantine art retained its inheritance even after it was conquered by the Turks in 1453. However, a mass destruction of the allegorical art works disrupted these artistic activities during the Iconoclastic controversy. In 1204, the Frankish Crusaders looted the city of its charm. It was under the Paleologus dynasty, and later...

Just recently, I got this idea of selling antiquities (particularly Asian) when I had the chance to travel to four Asian tourist hot spots - Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore. Whenever I looked for a souvenir, antiquities never failed to show up. It came upon me that maybe it was something that is in demand. Everywhere I looked there was an antique shop or stall that popped out in front of me. So I guess I can draw upon the idea of selling antiquities. I was amazed how local cultures have preserved the antiques. There were many galleries, artists on the sidewalk and many local stores that have displayed collections of antiques. I have noticed that many foreigners, especially Americans, spend...

  Once the home of Princess Chumphot, the Suan Pakkad Palace is situated on Si Ayutthaya Road, near the Phayathai intersection. Princess Chumbhot was one of the prominent art collectors in Thailand. Here, there are five traditionally built Thai houses that oversee a well maintained beautiful park, and display a huge collection of Thai antiquities. These houses were first constructed in 1952 by Prince and Princess Chumphot of Nagor Svarga. Some of the exhibits are from the ancestors of Prince Chumphot and are over a few centuries ancient. The Lacquer pavilion is located on the southern end of the park, while the Ban-Chiang and Marsi galleries are on the Chumphot Pantip collection of pre-historic...

Doll collectors of all kinds are always on the look out for antique dolls for sale so that they can add more to their collection. They are always on the know about the history of the antique dolls for sale. They believe that each doll has a story to tell, thus the fascination to collect these. The history of their seamstresses, manufacturers, and creators are quite appealing. Even how children play with these antique dolls for sale is a reason why collectors continue this hobby. In fact, doll collecting is now second to stamp collecting as the most popular hobby in the United States. Despite expensive antique dolls for sale, this does not stop the collectors to invest. That is why they think before...

There are so many things you can learn about antique porcelain dolls. There is a lot of history behind these toys which are collections for some people. The history of their seamstresses, manufactures, and creators are very interesting. Even how children played with antique porcelain dolls are worth reading about. The prices of antique porcelain dolls depend on their history. Nowadays, antique porcelain dolls are quite expensive, that's why collectors only get what they think are worth their money. It seems like they are alright with a couple of antique porcelain dolls instead of getting the current fashion dolls. However, a student would invest a lot of time and money to collect both. But there are...

The Cadillac of antique porcelain decoration is that which is hand decorated, either with or without benefit of an outline transfer. With this method, the pattern is usually painted individually by hand. Under magnification you will clearly see brush strokes and the surface will look somewhat higher than the body of the piece. The care and precision of the painting indicates whether you are looking at a high quality item painted with intense care and attention to detail, or whether it is a slapdash slopping on of color with the intention of finishing as many pieces in one day as possible. The quality of many of these pieces also probably tells the story as to whether the artisans involved were being...

How to clean your vintage jewelry? The methods should vary according to the piece. If it consists entirely of metal (such as a gold chain or silver brooch) - then I would highly recommend purchasing an ultrasonic cleaner. There are many different models out there and most recommend using their cleaning solution which of course provides the manufacturer a never ending income. We found a very nice unit that can be used with distilled or tap water and or distilled/tap water with a drop or two of dish washing liquid. It does a wonderful job! But beware! This type of cleaning is not suitable for all jewelry. If your jewelry has stones attached then you must carefully evaluate the stones, settings and...

There are numerous places that the consumer can find affordable costume jewelry necklaces and other costume accessories, for the fraction of the price that it would cost to purchase the real thing. Many major online stores have an accessory section that has much different costume jewelry. With the economy being slow, many of us are trying to find ways to cut our costs and be more aware of spending. When it comes to gift giving, we want to be able to give a beautiful gift, without having to go over our budget, especially with the Christmas holidays approaching. Many times we need to purchase gifts, not just for the family, but also for co-workers, hairdresser and other unexpected people that we...

The popularity of vintage jewellery will continue to remain and because of its unique look and design it adds more value. People are ready to spend their money in getting the best design in order to gift their loved ones. There are certain important things that you need to consider when you buy this type of jewellery. For example you should always get one for you from a reliable source. You should always but it with care and make sure that you the get the best one and that too at the best price. You can also buy vintage furniture online without having to go out in the scorching heat of the sun. There is a variety of such furniture that looks very beautiful and also stylish. You would become proud to...

Over the years, I have acquired many pieces of vintage jewellery that has some wear to the enamel. Many of these pieces were relegated to my jewellery box, where I could not bring myself to throw away or wear. It wasn't until I purchased an interesting vintage Christmas brooch that someone had already repainted but in quite a gaudy green, that the idea of re-enameling came to mind. So off I went to the large craft shop in town and edged my way through the men buying small pots of enamel paint for their model soldiers and vehicles. I now buy my little pots from a local model shop and so far I have been the only woman in there! But do not let this put you off. The enamel pots are not just available in...

Old books are out of date, obsolete and boring - right? While you may think so, there are plenty of antique books floating around that many people will pay up to thousands of dollars to buy from you. Not any old book, mind you. These are rare historical books that have a market of collectors wishing to buy them. Many people have old and antique books at their house and have no idea how much they are worth. Below you will find some helpful tips in trying to appraise how much an antique book is valued in the market place. As with other types of antiques, there are no hard and fast rules about how much an antique book is worth. However, there are some guidelines that will help you in determining how...

The value of antique books (also known an 'antiquarian books') is no different than any other antique in one sense - how much something is worth depends on how much someone else is willing to pay for it. You have to consider things like the demand for a particular book, the condition that it's in, and also how rare it is. Here is some practical information that can help you determine whether or not your antique book is Goodwill material, or something special. So you've been to a garage sale, an estate sale or an auction, and you've hit the mother lode. Boxes of very old books that are obviously antiques. Since they're so old they must be worth something, right? Even though collecting antique books...

What can increase your sales volume and make you more productive day in and day out? You've probably heard this three word statement that seperates those who wish they could do better,from those whoreally do. Knowledge is power! This three word statement is more than just a great philosophy. The more knowledge you have about antiques, the higher the increase in your overall profitability...as long as you use that knowledge. Knowledge can literally make or break your antique business. Here's a difficult lesson that was taught to a high-minded museum by a shrewd, savvy antique buyer with knowledge. I love this story! It vividly illustrates the difference between knowing and being in the dark about...

There is simply something so adorable about identical vintage salt and pepper shakers. So many of the amazing collectible vintage salt and pepper shakers are figurines designed to match or be pairs like a farmer and wife, cat and mouse, or mustard and ketchup. Animal Salt and Pepper Shakers Since the dining table was usually the only occasion a family came together in the past, and often still is, it is not shocking that what was on the dinner table has been often folksy and artistic including every part of the table setting. Tablecloths, table mats, candlesticks, silverware, and salt and pepper shakers all combined to set-up a homey, caring atmosphere after the rigors of a tough working day in the...

p>Antiques and collectibles are two hot categories on eBay. Collectibles by themselves represent billions of dollars in sales every year. This boom has been fueled by an ever-expanding e-commerce market place. No longer confined to only a local interest base, antique and collectible sellers now have a huge opportunity to cash in on their unique finds. And buyers can shop the world for the items they crave. Whether online or offline, buying and selling is the same - namely, people will continue to seek the same type of info and ask the same basic questions. If antiques and collectibles interest you there are numerous online resources you can refer to in order to better understand the opportunities...

There are multiple things to consider when you are looking for antique silverware. If you have decided that you want nice eating utensils that you can pass down to your kids and keep in the family, then you will want to find a nice set to purchase. There are literally hundreds of different places that sell this kind of silverware, and they are truly beautiful sets. Although you may end up spending quite a bit of money on them, you will have an heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation in your family over the course of many years. It is an investment that will pay off for many lifetimes after you make the initial purchase. You will want to take your time and decide exactly what...

There are many different toys that children love to play with. For girls the number one play item is that of dolls and in particular Barbie dolls. While girls love to play with these many different Barbie dolls there are many different people who have other reasons for buying Barbie dolls. The dolls which they buy are the Barbie collector dolls. These dolls are ones that have been manufactured at one time or another for purposes that are different from the rest of the Barbie dolls. You will find many different examples of Barbie collector dolls. These are for examples dolls like the Holiday Barbie dolls. When you first look at these dolls you will see nothing too different from the other Barbie...

Antique Prints plays a very important role in beautifying home and office. Decoration gives the special impact of home and the office. If it is decorated properly with antique decorator art you feel good and you like the atmosphere where you work or live. The purpose of decorating house or the office is to look attractive, welcoming and to convey certain message or the style or the feel from the home and from the office. If you decorate your home or the office with antique prints they will compliment with the art decorator and the prints like wall color, furniture, wallpaper, designs, lightings and so on. But both of them should compliment to each other. Antique Prints considered being the most...

The early 1900's made Bakelite, a castable plastic, quite a popular item. Bakelite first appeared in the construction of radios. Later on jewelers realized the lightweight feature of it was ideal for cheaper jewelry. It became popular after many colors were available for Bakelite. One noted user is Coco Chanel. There many classes offered on how to make hand made jewelry the inexpensive way. There are other plastics which look like Bakelite, including Lucite. Take caution if buying Bakelite jewelry since other materials are similiar. Bakelite feels heavier than Lucite. See how opaque the item is. If you can see through the piece of jewelry, I would bet that it's a Catalin, even though it may be...