How to Start Collecting Antiques on a Budget

Collecting antiques can be a rewarding hobby that enriches your home and knowledge. If you're just starting out and have a small budget, the key is to focus on items you love, are readily available, and don't break the bank. In this article, we will explore various options for building an affordable collection while providing tips for beginners.

Choosing the Right Collection

One of the best ways to start collecting antiques is to opt for items that aren't overly expensive. Some popular, budget-friendly categories include:

Ephemera: Paper items like vintage advertising envelopes, souvenir programs, train schedules, brochures, event programs, checks, bills, deeds, and indentures. These items not only add a fun touch to your collection but are generally affordable. Political Collectibles: Buttons, pins, and flyers. They can be found at good prices, especially if you’re into nostalgia or political history. Miniature Cars: Diecast miniature cars are another good choice. They are often available at affordable prices and can be enjoyed as display items or part of a larger collection. Vintage Jewelry Accessories: Consider accessories like necklaces, bracelets, and brooches that are not the most expensive but have a unique charm. Stamps, Coins, Paper Money: Non-U.S. stamps, coins, and paper money can be fascinating and diverse. Starting with common denominations can be a great way to get started without breaking the budget. Fast Food Giveaways: Objects like Happy Meal toys from McDonald’s can become valuable over time, especially if they are from certain years or tied to special promotions. Record Albums, 45s, and 33s: These records are often available at thrift stores and can be a fun addition to your collection if you enjoy music or vinyl. First Edition Books: Many first editions can be found at thrift stores or online for a reasonable price. They are often easy to spot and can add value to your collection. Travel Souvenirs: Shot glasses, charms, and spoons from various locations can make for delightful and personal additions.

While some items may be more expensive than others, it's important to note that you can build a collection of meaningful items without spending more than $20 on each piece.

Personal Experience: Depression Glass

My better half and I got started in antiques by collecting Depression Glass, which has been a wonderful journey. We loved the many colors and patterns, and the items were easily found and usually affordable. In fact, the most expensive pieces in our collection are the cabinets we store them in, and we sometimes use them for dinner parties. The skills we developed in remembering designs, manufacturers' values, and spotting fakes have stood us in good stead for many other collectible fields.

Starting Your Collection

Many people ask me how to start their collection, and here are a few key points to consider:

Interest: Think about what you truly want to collect. Passion is crucial, as you might focus on this field for a long time. Study Appraising: Learn how to appraise antiques. Knowledge is key for collectors. Don't buy extensively at the beginning. Instead, visit museums or collectors to see original antiques before purchasing. This will help you avoid common pitfalls like counterfeit items. Educate Yourself: The more you learn about your chosen field, the better prepared you will be to make informed purchases.

Remember, the most important thing is to start with something you love and have fun with the process. Over time, you'll find additional items that complement your collection and bring joy to your home.