Lillian Thatcher is a professional archaeologist who has turned her passion for uncovering the past into a love for antiques. She enjoys writing about the cultural and historical context of different antique pieces.
Antiques and collectibles can hold immense value, both monetarily and historically. From unique antiques to military memorabilia, the world of collectibles is vast and diverse. Here's an in-depth look at some of the most valuable antiques and rare collectibles you might come across.
🔍 Unearthing the Charm of Unique Antiques
Unique antiques are those that stand out due to their rarity, historical importance, or exceptional craftsmanship. They often carry significant value, especially if they are in good condition. For instance, antique furniture from the 17th and 18th centuries can fetch high prices, especially if they come from renowned craftsmen or have a proven historical significance. Similarly, antique clocks, especially those from the 18th century, are highly sought after by collectors.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
🎖 The Intriguing World of Military Memorabilia
Military memorabilia is another category of highly valuable collectibles. This could include anything from war medals and uniforms to equipment and letters from soldiers. The value of these items often depends on their rarity and the historical events they are associated with. For instance, items from World War I and II can be quite valuable. You can learn more about this in our article on military antiques.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
💎 Cornerstone Antiques: Pioneers of Past Eras
Cornerstone antiques are those that have a significant impact on a particular era or field. For example, early editions of famous books, manuscripts of famous authors, or original works of prominent artists can be considered cornerstone antiques. These items often carry immense value due to their cultural and historical significance.
🚗 Route 66 Antiques: A Journey Through Time
The iconic Route 66 is not only famous for its historical significance but also for the unique antiques and collectibles one can find along its path. From vintage gas station signs to antique Route 66 memorabilia, these items hold a special place in the hearts of collectors. You can discover more about Route 66 antiques in our FAQ about the West end of Route 66.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Identifying Valuable Antiques Quiz
Test your knowledge about valuable antiques and collectibles.
Learn more about 🔍 Take the Identifying Valuable Antiques Quiz at Route 66 West 🔍 or discover other Route 66 West quizzes.
While these categories cover a broad spectrum, the true value of an antique or collectible often lies in its story and the emotional connection it creates. As an antique enthusiast, the joy of antique discovery often surpasses the monetary value of the item. So, whether you're collecting for passion, investment, or both, remember that each piece has its own unique story to tell.
Speaking of the joy of discovery, let's take a look at a recent find that perfectly illustrates this point.
This tweet by Charles Hanson, an antique enthusiast, highlights the discovery of a Southern Song Dynasty Chinese bowl in Staffordshire that fetched a whopping £56,000 at auction. It's a thousand years old and exquisite, a testament to the rich history and value that antiques can hold.
When looking for valuable antiques, it's essential to have a good understanding of what to look for. This includes knowing about the item's history, its condition, and its rarity. You can learn more about this in our FAQ on determining if an antique is an authentic collector's piece.
Take a look at this example of a rare antique find.
This private collection of unique antiques demonstrates the kind of treasures that can be found with a keen eye and a deep understanding of history and craftsmanship.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or a beginner, the world of antiques and collectibles is a fascinating one. Each piece carries with it a piece of history and a story waiting to be uncovered. So, the next time you come across an old item, take a moment to appreciate its story. You never know, it might just be a valuable antique!
🏁 Wrapping Up Your Antique Discovery Adventure
Recommended Products
Our Recommendation Skeleteen Military Combat Medal Ribbons - Pretend Army War Hero Costume Accessories Ribbon Medals Pins
$9.99 
Our Recommendation The Ultimate Cigar Book: 4th Edition The Ultimate Cigar Book: 4th Edition
$16.69
Our Recommendation Military Alphabet, 8.5 x 11.5 Inch Aluminum Sign with the American Flag, Military Terms, Acronyms, Nato Phonetic Alphabet, Patriotic and Americana Decor and Gifts, Made in the USA AL-0912-RK1020HP
$26.99
Our Recommendation Flybold Shadow Box Frame for Military Uniform, Wedding Dress, Jersey with 92% Clear View & UV Protection. Air Force, Navy, Police, Medals & Memorabilia - 36x27in - XL Black
$151.99
Our Recommendation Bernhard Products Analog Alarm Clock Twin Bell Retro Copper Metal 4" Extra Loud Quartz Battery Operated with Backlight for Bedside Table Vintage Silent Non-Ticking Old fashioned Decorative Desk Clocks
$15.99
Our Recommendation Iheipye Large Medals Display Shadow Box - 6 Medal Display case - Perfect Medal Display for War Military, Runners, Marathon, Race Winner, Football, Gymnastics & All Sports (Black, 12x12)
$37.99
Our Recommendation NUOBESTY 3pcs Costume Military Badge Medal, Combat Hero Medal Alloy Military Medal Accessory for Women Men, Military Toys for Kids
$8.49
Our Recommendation The First American Cookbook: A Facsimile of "American Cookery," 1796 The First American Cookbook: A Facsimile of "American Cookery," 1796
$5.95
Our Recommendation Battle of Iwo Jima Now All Together Military Sign,Recruitment Poster 8"x12" Home Bar Pub Decorative Metal Tin Sign Wall Poster NY-21
$8.98
Our Recommendation 1897 Sears, Roebuck & Co. Catalogue 1897 Sears, Roebuck & Co. Catalogue
$14.79
Our Recommendation The Motor Camping Book (Legacy Edition): A Manual on Early Car Camping and Classic Recreational Travel (Library of American Outdoors Classics)
$16.99
Our Recommendation HZDHCLH Vintage Table Clocks for Living Room Bedroom Office Shelf Decor, Silent Non-Ticking Farmhouse Table Clock Battery Operated, Small Rustic Metal Clock with Roman Numerals (Copper,11 inch)
$29.99
Our Recommendation Vintage Style Alarm Clock Silent Antique Retro Table Clock Decorative Quiet Non-Ticking Clock Classic Retro Clock Desk Alarm Clock(Without Battery)
$21.99
Our Recommendation Verani Pin Display Case - 11x14 Pin Collection Display with 98% Uv Protection Acrylic Door for Military Medals, Beach Tags, Jewelry Pins, Pin Gift, Insignia Ribbons, Pin Enthusiast Collectibles, Black
$33.99
Our Recommendation Zthread 3pcs/Pack Military Hero Medals Blazer Suit Stripe Navy Military Badge Brooch Pin
$9.90
Our Recommendation French Eighteenth-Century Clocks and Barometers in the Wallace Collection French Eighteenth-Century Clocks and Barometers in the Wallace Collection
Our Recommendation Tasse Verre 12x15 White Display Shadowbox Frame w/Linen Background - Ready to Hang Large Shadow Box Picture Frame - Easy to Use - Box Display Sports Memorabilia, Uniforms, Military Medals, Wedding.
$19.99
Our Recommendation Veterans Day Decor U.S Army Veteran Tin Sign for Backyard Garage Man Cave Shed Office Craft Room Living Room Coffee & Bar Wall Decor Home Sign Gift 8x12 inch
$9.99
Our Recommendation Oath of Enlistment. Hand-Crafted in Tennessee, This Custom Wood Block Sign Measures 4X12 Inches. an Authentic, American Made Gift for Family or Friend.
$18.88
Our Recommendation Forum Novelties Standard Costume Accessory Military Medals, Set of 3, As Shown, One Size
$8.69
Our Recommendation A Surviving Legacy in Spanish America: Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century Furniture from the Viceroyalty of Peru by María Campos (2014-04-07) A Surviving Legacy in Spanish America: Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century Furniture from the Viceroyalty of Peru by María Campos (2014-04-07)
$141.90
Our Recommendation MEDALS OF AMERICA EST. 1976 Honorable Discharge Commemorative Medal
$26.99
Our Recommendation NIKKY HOME Vintage Table Clock, French Turquoise Color Rococo Style Desk Clock Battery Operated Rustic Design, Home Décor for Living Room, Bedroom, Bedside, Desk, Gift Clock - Gold
$32.99
Our Recommendation Soldiers Don't Brag Proud Army Grandma Military Grandmother Pullover Hoodie
$34.55
Our Recommendation American Art Decor Vintage LED Marquee Wall Decor - Battery Operated Metal Wall Art With LED Light Bulbs - Retro Sign for Bar, Man Cave, Garage, Game Room & More (Historic Route 66, 30" x 9"x 4")
$79.99
Our Recommendation Patriotic Military American Flag Wall Art Home Decor, Room Decoration - Gift for Soldiers, Veterans, Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, Coast Guard, Vets, Men, Women - Unframed Poster Sign Plaque
$12.95
Our Recommendation Stratton Home Decor Dorothy Vintage White Metal Table Clock
$26.28
Our Recommendation Furniture Making In Seventeenth And Eighteenth Century England An Outline for Collectors Furniture Making In Seventeenth And Eighteenth Century England An Outline for Collectors
Our Recommendation Collector's Guide to Early Photographs (Collectors Guide Series) Collector's Guide to Early Photographs (Collectors Guide Series)
$57.53
Our Recommendation Forum Novelties Military Medal (Bars)-Standard
$11.99
Our Recommendation World War II Victory Medal Full Size
$17.50
Our Recommendation Classical Piano Sheet Music | 60 Famous Solos | Composed By: Mozart, Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, Schubert, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, Debussy, ... Scriabin, Liszt, Vivaldi, Grieg and More Classical Piano Sheet Music | 60 Famous Solos | Composed By: Mozart, Chopin, Beethoven, Bach, Schubert, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, Debussy, ... Scriabin, Liszt, Vivaldi, Grieg and More
$14.47
People also asked
Route 66 West Articles
All Rights Reserved © 2024