Categories of affordable antiques to hunt for:
For beginners, it is best to focus on items that are relatively affordable and plentiful. Look for these specific categories:
Vintage kitchenware: Collectible brands like Fiesta Tableware are popular for their colorful, iconic designs, while vintage CorningWare, especially with popular patterns, is a durable and beloved find. Cast iron cookware, particularly older pieces, is valued for its superior quality and restoration potential.
Antique ceramics and pottery: Look for decorative transferware pieces featuring classic patterns like the "Blue Willow" design. Collectible American Art Pottery from brands like Roseville and Rookwood can also be found. Pieces of Cornishware with its distinct blue and white stripes can date back to 1920.
Vintage postcards: Known as deltiology, collecting postcards is an affordable way to own small pieces of history. Topographical cards featuring specific locations or thematic cards centered on topics like National Parks or animals are popular. Look for cards from the "Golden Age" (1900–1915) for potential value.
Vintage jewelry: While some pieces are expensive, many beautiful and affordable items are available. Victorian mourning jewelry and vintage costume jewelry, especially designer pieces with a clear signature, are excellent entry points.
Vintage advertising signs: This category is great for fans of pop culture and historical graphics. Signs from well-known products like Coca-Cola or nostalgic gas station and oil signs are popular, though their value varies widely by condition and brand.
How to spot valuable items:
Look for signatures and marks: On porcelain, pottery, and silver, a maker's mark or signature can identify a valuable manufacturer. Use a magnifying device to read small or faded marks.
Examine craftsmanship: Genuine antiques often show signs of being handmade. On furniture, look for irregular dovetail joints, which indicate hand-cut work rather than machine production. In glass, search for tiny bubbles or imperfections, as modern glass is typically flawless.
Check for natural aging:
Patina on metals: A soft, greenish patina on brass or bronze suggests age. Be wary of uniform tarnish, which might indicate an artificial aging process.
Wear and tear: Antique wooden furniture will have natural, irregular wear on common touchpoints like handles and table edges. Uniform or symmetrical wear is a red flag for a reproduction.
Use technology: The eBay app allows you to search for similar "sold items" by taking a photo, showing what people have actually paid. Google Lens can visually identify items without obvious markings.
Negotiating and buying tips:
Be polite and respectful: Always approach negotiations with a friendly attitude. Start by politely asking, "Would you consider a lower price?".
Use research to back up your offer: If the seller hesitates, calmly mention any flaws or factors that justify a lower price based on your research.
Know when to walk away: If the seller's price is too high, it's okay to thank them and politely move on. Sometimes, a seller may reconsider and offer a better price later.
Bring cash: Many sellers are more willing to negotiate for cash, and it simplifies the transaction.
