Questioning the authenticity of your Blenko glass? Uncertain if your typewriter is from the 1970s or the 1920s? Wondering if your vinyl records are of any value? You are not alone!
After nearly 30 years of working with antiques and collectibles, there is one thing I know for certain. The more you learn, the more there is to learn. The study of antiques can take a lifetime, but don’t be discouraged. There are some wonderful research and identification guides available to assist you and there is no better time to hit the books than now, before the spring sale season starts.
Ralph and Terry Kovel (rhymes with “oh well”) are considered by many to be the foremost authorities on antiques and collectibles. Their first book, Dictionary of Marks: Pottery and Porcelain 1650-1850, written in 1952, is a favorite among collectors, along with its sister publication, Kovel’s Dictionary of Marks: Pottery and Porcelain 1850-Present.
In 1967 the Kovel’s wrote Know Your Antiques. This easy to read book is as valuable to the seasoned pro as it is to the novice. Their Complete Antiques Price List (renamed Kovel’s Antiques and Collectible Pricing Guide in 2005) has been published each year for over 50 years. In this incredible book you will find color photographs, information on marks, an index and tips on how to care for your collectibles. In addition to their general guide, the Kovel’s have written dozens of books on specific categories of collecting.
If you are looking for information on a particular category of collecting, check out the beautifully illustrated books from Warman’s. For over 65 years their books have been widely used by those in the antiques and collectibles community. From Native American artifacts to Roseville Pottery to Pepsi collectibles, the information contained in these books will provide you with an in-depth understanding that can help you spend your antiquing money wisely.
Since the early 1990s, experienced dealers and collectors have relied on Schroeder’s to assist them in the identification of antiques and collectibles. Over 50,000 listings are included with expert information. Hundreds of photographs accompany the 600+ categories, which include glass and porcelain, match holders, purses, cookie jars, jewelry, advertising, furniture, dolls, records. Company histories and other pertinent facts are contained in the highly descriptive listings. Schroeder’s Guides are also considered a good source of current market and developing trends.
Miller’s Antiques Handbook and Pricing Guide by Judith Millers, former host of the BBC Antiques Roadshow, offers a comprehensive guide to knowing your antiques. Assembled from the expertise of two dozen experts from the U.K. and the U.S., Miller has also written a number of specialty books. Those of you who love jewelry may want to pick up a copy of her award-winning Costume Jewelry Guide which is updated annually and considered by many to be the most comprehensive jewelry guide on the market.
Reference books will often include values for the items they list. It is important to note that these values are derived from top “realized pricing” on a national scale. They are helpful if you are planning to insure your items, but can be very deceiving if you are trying to liquidate a collection. Values will vary based on your location and the method of liquidation you choose. To make certain you are obtaining an accurate assessment of the value of your antiques it is always best to consult a professional appraiser. Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com
