Last month, Estate Sales Expert Judy Johnson of Unexpected Treasures gave us the rundown on what isn’t selling in the market. This month, she gives us the update on things that collectors may be interested in. It’s important to remember that collectors are picky. They know what they’re looking for, and it’s a small subset of what people want to sell. In all cases, an item’s value is highly dependent on its condition. Here is Part 2 of Judy’s report.
Vinyl is making a comeback.
Vinyl is making a comeback among young audiophiles. Pre-1970s rock-and-roll and jazz records are in demand. (Classical doesn’t make the cut.) Buyers are looking for high-quality turntables and speakers, too; so if you’re selling a stereo system from that era, you may be surprised!
Score with local team memorabilia.
If you have well-preserved Giants, 49ers, Stanford or Berkeley sports memorabilia, including game tickets, programs, pins, buttons or photographs, you may find an interested collector. Pieces from important games and/or highlighting famous players garner the most interest.
Photographic memories.
High-quality cameras and lenses — i.e. Pentax, Leica, Hasselblad — are being snapped up by collectors who want to go back to shooting film. Unused black-and-white film may be worth something, too. The demand for interesting vintage photography is also growing.
Sew on and sew forth.
With the emphasis on maker-culture, sewing is becoming popular again. Today’s fashionistas are looking for old buttons, vintage fabrics, 50’s patterns, and classic sewing machines that are in top working order.
Where were you in WW II?
Military collectors are interested in getting the complete story. If you have a soldier’s uniform, dog tags, medals, books, correspondence, etc. you can probably find a buyer. If you have a only an item or two, there may still be interest if the items are unusual or have special significance.
Money talks.
Both US and foreign coins are moving up on the collectibles list. Again, condition is a critical consideration.
Transportation and travel.
Transportation is a hot topic to collectors. Anything that relates to air travel, ocean liners, boats, railroads or automobiles will draw buyers’ attention. Road maps, travel souvenirs, even old license plates are on collectors’ search lists.
And a few other things…
- Local and western US historical memorabilia — photos, maps, books.
- Toys and dolls through the 1970s, 19th c. handmade toys, old games in original boxes.
- Pocket watches. Men’s wristwatches. Watch parts.
- Antique Native American pottery, baskets, jewelry, rugs, artwork.
Remember: No one can put a value on your memories.
People want things for all kinds of reasons. The question you should ask yourself is not “What is this item worth?” but “What is it worth to me?” If you’re not using something, it’s costing you time, money and energy to hold on to it. In that case, it’s best to let it go.
At On The Move our aim is to help you create an environment that supports the way you want to live now. Whether you’re downsizing the home you live in or you’re moving to a new one, we’ll make sure you move through the process with ease.
In addition to working with estate sales experts like Judy Johnson we work with a range of professionals — from movers to painters and computer technicians — who can address any and every need Drop a note to Maria@onthemovenow.com or call 650-740-4911 to find out more.
