12 antiques and collectibles to make a profit on

Jan asks:  I’ve been collecting for years, now I’m ready to start selling to make some money, what kinds of antiques are selling best right now?

AW says:  Wow, that is such a loaded question, that there’s no way to answer it thoroughly in this blog post. Yet, it’s an important question and one I get often, so I’ll do my best.

First, just as important as what you buy, is HOW you buy. Simply put if you pay too much for an item, you’ll find it impossible to sell it for a profit. But assuming your purchasing skills are up to snuff, here’s what I’m finding sells best right now.

• Sterling silver
• costume and fine jewelry
• US small town postcards
• Halloween collectibles before 1970
• American art pottery
• early buttons which are unusual
• old signs
• Americana (authentic only, stay away from repros)
• arts and crafts accessories such as lamps
• vintage clothing
• clocks
• guitars and stringed instruments

Of course in each genre, look for the unusual examples. There are a lot of old Coke signs out there, but this porcelain truck cab sign is very rare!

Don’t forget, the letters in the “sterling” stamp can be worn away or in a very inconspicuous place. Be diligent with your inspections!

Sometimes it’s best to go with a known name. This Seth Thomas Sun/Moon mantle clock has been a good seller for many years. Classics are a safe bet, but don’t forget rule #1. (Well bought is half sold)

 Art pottery is popular. Do a full tactile as well as visual inspection on ALL pieces.

All photos are courtesy of iCollector.com the online doorway into live auctions.