After many postponements, winter has officially arrived in Central Indiana, sending collectors scurrying to find a source to feed their need to acquire. Fortunately for we Hoosiers, winter time in Indy offers a wide array of options, from the scheduled of shows at the State Fairgrounds, to pop-up shops, resale stores, and indoor flea markets. So, what makes the difference between a great find and a “what was I thinking” item? Here are my top picks for the collectibles to watch as you brave the cold in search of treasures this winter.
Jadeite — That wonderful opaque glass from the 1930s and 40s is back and hotter than ever for 2016. From table settings to egg cups and mixing bowls values are on the rise, but still available at flea markets and auctions if you keep on the lookout. Names to watch for include McKee, Anchor Hocking {Fire King} and Jeannette Glass. Condition is a big determinate in value so avoid any pieces with scuffs and scratches.
Pocket knives — While not the oldest of the U.S. manufactured knives, Case knives are one of the most widely collected and one of the easiest to find. These abound at antique malls, but if you are willing to do a little digging, the best deals are to be had at area flea markets. The bulk of the knives offered in these settings will be of the Chinese import variety, but check closely as they sometimes have a few older knives laying around, and often at a fraction of their value. Do your research before you go and always watch for the words “Case XX” or “Case XX Tested” as these will be the older knives from 1889-1905.
Vintage world globes — As a collectible or a decorative art, world globes are gaining in popularity. Nouveau era globes are a great find, as are pre-WW II examples from the 1930s. Minimal wear is acceptable on older globes, but make certain it is minimal. The value of 20th Century globes is highly based on their aesthetic appeal, and while some wear adds to the “look,” too much and you are stuck. Recent top sellers on eBay include: a 1930s Cram lighted glass globe mounted on the shoulders of Atlas $475, a 1940 advertising globe, also from Cram $449 and an Art Nouveau (1914-1917) Weber Costello/Petrograd for $365. Other brands to watch for include Replogle and Globemaster
Baseball cards — Sometimes the joys of our childhood translate into our favorite collectible as an adult. A great example of this is found in the passion many men have for baseball cards. These are found by the hundreds at flea markets and good ones do turn up if you are patient. According to Pat Adair, co-owner of Lowell Avenue Vintage and Antiques, and one of the area’s leading experts on baseball cards, “You need to watch for cards prior to 1980 and remember that condition is everything. A $100 card with a crease is a $10 card”
Pyrex — Watch for bright colored Pyrex in turquoise, blue, orange and yellow as it is more popular than the muted tones. Currently trending patterns include Gooseberry and Butterprint, both of which debuted in 1957, Rainbow Striped from 1965-1968, New Dot 1968-1972, Terra 1964-1965 and Snowflakes which first hit the market in 1956 in white on turquoise, turquoise on opal and white on charcoal. Pyrex was manufactured for everyday use and much of it will have heavy wear. Take your time, examine each piece and walk away from those that are not in mint condition.
Trophies — Most of the trophies you find are of the MVP high school basketball variety. But occasionally one will surface that has more than sentimental value. Take a second look at older loving cups and tall vase two-handled trophies, as they were often made of sterling silver. They can be sold for scrap and might just finance your treasuring hunting for the rest of the winter! Until next time………Linda
Irvington resident Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com
