The message over the past few decades has been that the art market is open for business – and that everyone can be a collector. A stunning art collection doesn’t have to be worth millions – art is an intensely personal thing, and affordable art is available for every taste.
The murky world of art forgery has played a role in the story of art for thousands of years. In fact, some famous artists began their careers copying art by others.
Pop and sport memorabilia collecting has rocketed in popularity over the past half century, but more unusual choices have attracted interest, and hence value, in the collectibles market.
Since being popularised with the 1977 release of the Atari 2600, the market for video games has been steadily growing to the point where it is now one of the most important industries in the world of entertainment, valued at an estimated $75bn worldwide.
Over the past few years vinyl record sales have been booming, with the vinyl industry set to enjoy its seventh consecutive year of double-digit growth in 2017.
When we think of money, we typically think of it in terms of the value it has been prescribed when printed – a £5 note is worth just that; no more, no less.
The New Year has arrived, bringing everybody thoughts of starting afresh and doing everything they’ve been putting off for the previous year. And what better way to begin 2018 than by starting a brand-new collection?
Everyone is proud of their collections, we put a lot of work in to hunting down the perfect new additions and take great pride in watching the collection grow and develop.
Technological change has swept from one sector to another, engulfing everything in its path, and the antiques trade has been no exception.
Used every day around the world to send letters and parcels, the humble stamp is also the quintessential collector’s item. Appreciated for the incredible art found on them as well as their historical value, philately is a hobby which will never go out of style.
Sculptures are traditionally some of the most expensive items in the world of collections, with works by the masters regularly being sold for millions of pounds at auction.
Started by Susan Williams-Ellis, the Stoke-based company takes its name from the Italian-style village designed by the eccentric architect Sir Clough Williams- Ellis on the coast of North Wales, best known as the setting for the cult 1960s TV series The Prisoner.
The first ever adhesive postage stamp was released on 1st May 1840 by Sir Rowland Hill and Henry Cole in the United Kingdom. This stamp, known as the Penny Black, was designed to make postage cheaper and simpler and was a method quickly embraced around the world.
Collecting children's books can be a real joy, but can also bring a lot of frustration. Collecting children's books is not like hunting for fiction or non-fiction for adults because of their former owners. Unfortunately, little readers have no understanding of the term 'mint condition', and many priceless first editions have stains, tears and damage.
The so-called ‘vinyl revival’ shows no signs of slowing down, with the British Phonographic Industry announcing a 63% rise in vinyl sales (external link) at the beginning of 2016.
It takes all sorts. Not many link the hobby of collecting with the glamour of celebrity, but lots of famous people are also collectors. Here are ten big celebrities and their very surprising collections!
A range of 175 comic books which show the very first images of Superman, Batman and Flash are set to go up for auction in the US. The rare comic books are being sold by American John Wise who built up the collection over 30 years.
We talked to Bill Steely from the Christmas collectors' club The Golden Glow of Christmas Past, an active group who specialise in collecting pre-1976 vintage Christmas ornaments.
2017 is hurtling towards a close, with Christmas nearly upon us and New Year not far behind. Although the season can get stressful, with worries about finances, family and fresh starts at the top of the mind, a good fair can be the best place to distract yourself.
The market for militaria has changed in recent years. It’s never been easier to get hold of that sought after piece – with the internet, geographical boundaries are no longer a hindrance.
