Coins and Paper Money -> Paper Money: US -> Colonial Currency

If you are interested in collecting paper money, Colonial money is one of the hottest tickets going right now. When the first US colonies were formed, the nation and its currency system were still in their infancy. It was decided that paper money would be used, and gradually, currency was printed and distributed for use. Today, colonial money is usually worth much more than its face value, provided that it is original and not a reproduction. Here are some tips on how to tell whether or not you have an authentic piece of colonial history.

1. Check the Signature

Colonial money was always designed to have at least one signature on the note. You may need to look carefully to determine whether or not a signature is present, but if you can’t find even one, chances are you may be dealing with a reproduction. The color of the signature should be in red ink.

2. Is it Numbered?

Colonial money was always numbered to help them keep track of how many bills were in circulation. Once again, if you are dealing with an authentic note the ink color will be red and the number will be very noticeable. Age made have faded the note slightly, but you should be able to tell that the ink was once a red color.

3. Look at the Writing

Typically, colonial money featured a handwritten signature, and some bills may have other handwriting on them as well. This is actually quite important, and is a big clue to the authenticity of the note. If the handwriting is the in the same color as the rest of the bill, there is a very high chance that you are in fact dealing with a reproduction.

4. Look for the Stamp

In most cases, reproductions that are intended merely for home use will carry a stamp that says “facsimile.” This is done to help people get a better idea of the colonial money that was used, but they are not intended to be collector items. While some reproductions may not have this stamp, the majority should.

5. Find the Watermark

Even in the height of the colonial period, when technology still was struggling, watermarks were added to bills to help determine whether or not they were authentic. You can use that same watermark to help you determine whether or not you have authentic colonial money on hand. Hold the bill up to a light source to see if you can spot the watermark. If you can’t chances are you have a reproduction.

6. Take it to an Expert

If you plan on investing in a colonial money note, it is best to have it examined by an expert to determine the authenticity of the note. They will be well versed in the different types of ink, the different plates that were used, as well as how real colonial money should look. There is no substitute for getting an expert’s opinion, especially if you will be investing in colonial money.

Photo Credits: woody1778a

Originally posted 2008-09-11 14:00:01. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Collectibles -> Radio, Phonograph, TV, Phone Collectibles

Gramophones are a truly unique collectible and when they are in good condition, they offer not only enhanced value, but you may actually be able to use it. When you are shopping for a gramophone, there are a few things that you need to be aware of before putting your money down. Reproductions are a big business and it is always disappointing to find out that the antique you paid so much money for is actually a fake. Here are some tips to help you avoid that experience.

1. Does the gramophone actually work?
A working gramophone is worth more than one that is no longer functioning. However, you can find a great deal on a broken model that just needs a little TLC. If possible, ask the seller to let you listen to the gramophone if it is in working order. The quality of the tone should tell you a lot about the age of the item and whether or not it is a reproduction. Older models usually have a distinctive “old” sound just cannot be duplicated.

2. Will the seller allow you to look inside?
While you may be able to duplicate the exterior look of a gramophone, it is much easier to replicate the innards. Take a look inside and see how new the parts work. Granted, if it has been completely restored the parts will look very clean, but you should be able to tell if they are at least original. Ask the seller how much work has been done on the gramophone and then compare their response with what you find inside.

3. Do they have any recordings that will go with the gramophone?
This adds to the value of the item, especially if the recordings are in good shape. You can also learn a lot about the history of the gramophone if the original recordings come with it. Finding these can be difficult, but many times, especially with private collections, the old recordings will go with the machine. Try to find a gramophone that has at least one original recording that will come with it.

4. Is the case cracked?
This can make a big difference in the sound and how well the gramophone will work. It is best to try to find one that is in good condition, unless you have experience in restoring these machines. Trying to find someone that does can also be difficult, so if you are inexperienced, stick with the models that are still in good working order and cosmetically sound.

5. What material is the horn made out of?
Old gramophone are actually quite heavy, due to the fact that the metal horns were made of brass, or other heavy metals. A light gramophone may be an indication that either the item is not authentic, or the horn was replaced with inferior materials.

Gramophones are a delightful collectible, and can provide hours of amusement. It is best however to make sure that you are getting an authentic model, especially if you would like to be able to resell it someday.

Originally posted 2008-08-16 05:00:52. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Dealers -> Furniture -> Desks

When you’re shopping for antique desks, a secretary desk is just one of the many different styles of furniture you’ll find. There are standard desks, of course, elaborate (and now amazingly expensive) Wooten desks, old rolltop desks and variations on all of those. How do you tell the difference between these types of desks and secretary desks?

A secretary desk is distinctive from all these, even though it does have similarities to them all, because of the way the writing area is disguised when the desk is not in use. When the area is covered and the desk is closed, it’s closed off by a piece of flat wood that usually sit an angle when it’s closed. Sometimes this angle is as much as 45 degrees. The rolltop desk has the cover that actually rolls up into the desk, and the Wooten desk very rarely has a flat front, the front is usually curved, carved and very elaborate.

The size of a secretary desk can vary a great deal. The more modern reproductions or even less antique secretary desks tend to be smaller than the ones a hundred years old or more. Many of these desk are quite tall and very heavy. Newer ones might even be built in such a way that they can easily be taken apart, but antique desks were built solidly as a single piece of furniture meant to stay together for hundreds of years.

The hinged panel that hides the open area within the desk actually creates the actual writing surface. There are typically wide drawers on a secretary desk, and sometimes small drawers and small cubbies on the piece of furniture as well, to allow storage for a variety of different items. Older secretary desks might have a tall bookcase above the writing area or even a glassed-in bookcase or set of shelves. The top of these desks often look more like a china cabinet or a curio cabinet than anything belonging on a desk, and when the desk area is closed, it does often look like nothing more than a piece of display furniture.

Unlike a rolltop desk or other type of desk where the panel slides into the desk, everything must be removed from the writing area in order to close the desk, which makes the needs for the drawers and cubbies apparent. While a Wooten desk is similar to a secretary desk, a secretary desk has a more plain appearance. It will look more like a nice curio cabinet, china cabinet or even armoire or dresser on top, with drawers and the hidden work surface below.

Wooten desks are similar to these desks but they simply have a more fancy appearance—and typically sell for thousands of dollars. Secretary desks are the most prevalent type of antique desk available today, a type of desk once so popular it was commonly referred to as simply “a secretary.” You can find an antique secretary desk in antique shops, at flea markets and in online auctions like eBay.

Originally posted 2008-11-15 05:00:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Antiques -> Decorative Arts

Tiffany lamps offer collectors a chance not only to find something valuable but also a collector’s piece that is functional and beautiful. If you are looking for a piece that will enhance your home as well as your bottom line, then this is definitely a collectible to consider. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you purchase a Tiffany lamp.

1. Don’t be Fooled by Fakes
Reproductions are incredibly common. The term Tiffany lamp refers to two very different things. The first means that it was a design made by the actual Louis C. Tiffany. The second refers to the general style of these lamps, in that they have stained glass shades and sturdy bases. The first is incredibly valuable, the second may be expensive, but is not an actual collector’s item.

2. Look for the Mark
A genuine Tiffany lamp that was designed by Louis C. Tiffany will contain his mark, which was LCT. Look for this on the lamp’s base, or possibly on the shade, depending on which year it was made. Some authentic Tiffany lamps will actually have a small paper label, while others will contain his full name and a reference number. These are the most desirable. However, this is usually not enough to tell if a Tiffany lamp is genuine.

3. Solder Matters
Pay attention to the solder on the shade of a Tiffany lamp. A brand new reproduction will often have solder that is either incredibly perfect, or poorly done, depending on the origin of the piece. A real Tiffany lamp will usually have solder that has a few mistakes, making it a bit imperfect. That is actually part of its charm, and part of Louis C. Tiffany’s philosophy, where the look of the glass mattered more to him than the technical part of putting it together.

4. Look for surface decorations
Many of Louis C. Tiffany’s lamps were devoid of surface decorations, again because he preferred to let the beauty of the glass speak for the lamp. The bases for these Tiffany lamps may not be as intricate as today’s models, and were generally more functional.

5. Buyer Beware
Thanks to today’s technology it is very easy to produce a fake Tiffany lamp. Above all, collectors should remember that if a price appears to be too good to be true, it usually is. In fact, some of the best designs that were made by Tiffany were never actually marked and were intended to be gifts for his friends and employees. While you can use the above criteria to assist you, it should not be the final word on whether or not a lamp is authentic.

The best solution is to shop for a Tiffany lamp from a reputable dealer that has built up a solid reputation of providing original Tiffany lamps. Avoid overly low prices and remember, that sometimes, it’s all about the beauty of the glass – just like Tiffany believed. If you like a lamp and find that it is beautiful, not being able to authenticate it shouldn’t keep you from enjoying it, just as long as you understand that it may not have value beyond it’s actual beauty.

Photo Credits: Beesnest McClain

Originally posted 2008-08-15 05:00:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Collectibles -> Memorabilia -> Movie Memorabilia -> Autographs – Original: Autographs – Reprints

If you are looking for a great collector’s item that is in high demand, one of the hottest items you can find are Marilyn Monroe pictures. These photographs are always popular, but you may not always be getting the real thing. Here are some tips to help you get the best Marilyn Monroe pictures that are authentic. Make a smart investment be an informed buyer.

1. Certified Authentication

   Ask for a certificate. A reliable seller that has an actual photo of Marilyn Monroe will typically be willing to provide you with at least some form of authentication. Unless they are the original owner of the picture or took it on their own, somewhere along the line there should have been a certificate issued. While not having a certificate does not mean that the item is fake, it should give you pause and make you rethink the purchase a bit.

2. Reasearch

   See how many identical Marilyn Monroe pictures there are. Many times, someone will claim to have an authentic, only of it’s kind of photo, but with a little research you can determine on your own if that claim is valid. Do a photo search on Google, and see if you can find an identical picture. If you can, chances are the picture being sold is not authentic or at the very least, is not an original.

3. Color Over Black and White

   Look for color Marilyn Monroe pictures. By far, the pictures that are the most valuable for Marilyn are the ones that are in full color. They are more expensive, but you are getting more value for your money. However, black and white photos can also bring in a high asking price, especially if they are originals or from a private collection.

4. Careful With Sigantures

   Be wary of signatures. While there are many authentic Marilyn Monroe photos out there that are indeed signed, there are a lot more reproductions. If you do find a seller with one of these and a certificate, definitely take advantage of the deal. These are incredibly rare. Most likely however, you will be dealing with a reproduction and the picture may actually be worthless.

5. Buyer Beware

   If the deal seems to good to be true, it probably is. If someone is claiming to have an authentic Marilyn Monroe picture and they are selling it for a pittance, chances are it is not an authentic original. Steer clear of these deals and save your money for the collectibles that are truly valuable.

   There is nothing wrong with buying a reproduction of a Marilyn Monroe picture, especially if you are aware of it. In most cases, a photo like this is bought only to enhance a private collection and not for an investment. However, if you are looking for a picture as an investment, you do need to do plenty of research to make sure that you are getting a good deal before you put your money on the table.

With care and effort, you can find a great original Marilyn Monroe picture that will enhance your personal collection and provide you with a nice little investment.

Originally posted 2008-08-11 05:00:24. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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Memorabilia -> Movie Memorabilia -> Movie Props : Originals, Reproductions

If you have a favorite movie that you will never forget, or if you are a collector of memorabilia, finding movie props can be an amazing experience. There are numerous studios that release special movie props after filming and you can also find some truly remarkable props at auction. However, if you are looking for originals, there are a few things to keep in mind before you turn over your cash.

There is quite a business in reproduction movie props and although the average person may not be able to tell them apart, there is a great difference in value when compared to an original. If you are collecting for investment purchases, it is vital to make sure that you are dealing with an original and authentic movie prop. Otherwise, you are just wasting your money. While sentimental value does count for something, no one likes ending up with something that they thought was authentic, only to find out is was worthless.

Since movie props are so popular, there is a large demand for these items. For example, following the release of the movie Titanic in 1997, there was a scramble not only for the original sapphire necklace worn by the lead actress, but numerous fakes and reproductions popped up. While the reproductions were stunning to look at it, they were worth much less than the original.

It is not easy to find authentic and original movie props, but those that live in Hollywood or near filming locations can usually end up with some amazing finds. The best place to find these props is usually at a studio sanctioned auction, but you may be able to find a rare deal from a private collector. Before you do however, here’s what you need to look for.

1. Certificate of Authenticity

The movie props that are released by the studio will generally come with a certificate. Now, there is an exception to this rule, mainly due to stars that took home props, added them to their private collection and they later ended up at auction. These usually have a story that goes along with them however to supply authentication.

2. Who is the Dealer?

If you are dealing with a known provider of authentic movie props, you can usually be assured that you will be getting originals. Steer clear of sellers that have no reputation or feedback in the industry since the chances of getting stuck with a reproduction are very high in these cases. This is particularly true if they cannot produce a certificate of authenticity.

With care, you can purchase original movie props from your favorite films. Pay attention to auctions because you never know when something rare may pop up. Original movie props offer you the ability to take part in something that may have touched you, made you laugh or made you cry. You owe it to yourself to make sure that it is an authentic prop. With a little effort, you can easily make sure you are buying the real thing.

Originally posted 2008-08-21 05:00:14. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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If you’re looking for something unique to adorn the rooms of your home, then a hobby that you may want to delve into is buying and selling antiques. There are a couple of different things that you are going to need to consider when it comes to buying and selling antiques in order to get the most out of the experience. Before you go out and buy those rare items that you have been hunting down, consider the following guide.

Antiques can be described as absolutely collectible item that has 100 years under its belt and some level of aesthetic value to the beholder. Examples of antiques that you can buy and sell include grandfather clocks, jewelry items, pianos, vintage fashion items, silverware, Ivory items, Faberge eggs and the list goes on. When it comes to buying and selling antiques, people tend to have their own unique preferences for different items, and it is up to you to decide what types of items you are personally interested in.

The first thing that you are going to want to consider with buying and selling antiques is the history and the originality of whatever antique you are set on buying. Rare antiques tend to come at higher prices than those that are not as original, and you want to make sure that you are buying the real deal rather than a fake or a replica. Many people that are buying and selling antiques out there are putting retouched items up on the auction block, but you are actually going to want an antique that has not been refurbished or repaired in order to get the best possible experience.

Before you go about buying and selling antiques of any kind, you are going to want to do a proper level of research on the item in question. A great place for you to conduct this research is online, which is where you can find some truly valuable information about any antiques that you are planning in dealing in. Learn how to spot reproductions and refurbished items. Learn how to tell whether or not the antique in question is actually authentic. The more that you prepare for buying and selling antiques, the more successful you will end up being in the grand scheme of things. Once you have done a proper amount of research, you will have the necessary confidence to go out there and buy and sell with the best of them.

You can get into buying and selling antiques in your local area or online, depending on your comfort zone. You can buy from reputable auction houses in your local vicinity and this will help you guarantee the authenticity of anything that you buy. You can also buy online from many sources, but buying and selling antiques online is a little trickier because proving authenticity takes more work and more trust.

Photo Credits: StephenMitchell

Originally posted 2009-10-24 03:42:50. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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