Finding the Value of Old DollsA lot of people write on here wondering about the value of their old dolls, so I wanted to post a small guide that may or may not prove helpful.
Selling Record AlbumsSome of your old records could be worth quite a chunk of change. Sadly, it can be a little time consuming, but it's fun and worth it if you have a little time. Often, if it's a rare record in great shape, you will get the best return by putting it up for auction on eBay
Look for Early Editions of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThe basic guideline is that the 1st up until the 8th Editions have great collector values, defined by condition. The 9th and 10th Editions are so numerous that they are of small value. Anything after 1928 is basically worthless.
Indian with Head Dress FigurineWe have had this in the family for over 80 years. It is an Indian laying on his side. On the back it has a copyright of 1910, by Boston Plastic Art Co. Boston, Mass. Is it worth anything? I think it is like plaster of Paris.
Selling Old EncyclopediasFor over a year I have tried selling an encyclopedia set that is in pristine condition on Craigslist. I have even seen ads where people are giving away their encyclopedias for FREE. Due to the internet there is nothing that you can't find that isn't in the encyclopedia except the photos.
Determining the Value of Comic BooksThe comic book market has experienced quite a bit of decline in recent years, but there still are comics that are going up in value or have retained a great deal of value. You don't have to be an expert to determine if you might have a valuable comic book.
Reselling Antiques and CollectiblesSeveral of my friends are now making good, extra money re-selling used items and/or antiques and collectibles. Two of them are working an eBay store called Hollywood Junque.
Join Yahoo Groups for Desired ItemsIf you can't find an item on ebay, or can't afford to bid on ebay for the item, try searching the yahoo groups in the appropriate category for the item you are looking for; i.e. toy collectors groups, etc.
Research Silver and Silverplate MarksDo you know that there are marks on the bottom of silver and silverplate items that tell you who made it and if it's sterling or silverplate? Did you know that all this information is on the internet if you do a google search for silverplate marks?
Research Before Shopping Estate SalesIt is often the case at estate sales and garage sales that those hosting the sale overlook some hidden treasure in their inventory. Go to a jeweler or a pawn shop and see if the proprietor would teach you some fundamentals.
Vintage Items as an InvestmentWay before vintage was such a big "industry" I have loved old clothes, jewelry, furniture, and other collectibles! There are many advantages to buying/using vintage items.
Caring For Depression Era GlasswareTo prevent cracking, I never place it in a dishwasher, as the water is generally too hot. If you have hard water, a dishwasher will permanently etch your glassware, if washed in it.
