Vintage collectibles are in demand right now for a variety of reasons, and the interest in vintage items goes well beyond just those who consider themselves collectors. Many non-collectors have shown an interest in buying vintage as well, and nostalgia is one of the driving forces behind this trend, leading to popularity with both the older and younger generations. As millennials age, items from their childhood are edging ever closer to the “vintage” category, creating demand for those items. Gen Z is even getting in on the action, with an interest in vintage clothing styles and thrift shopping.


Thrift and vintage shopping are also seen as a sustainable and unique alternative to buying things brand new. With so many more unique options to choose from, vintage shopping allows people to have nearly one-of-a-kind finds in their home, in lieu of shopping the same brand-new décor that everyone else is buying. It’s also a great way to conserve valuable resources by giving items that already exist a new life.


The term “vintage” can be used quite loosely, so let’s take a moment to define the word. Items at least 40 years old are considered “vintage,” while items at least 100 years old would be considered “antique.”  The term “retro” refers to items at least 20 years old but not yet 40 years old, items from the recent past. Often, items that should be considered “retro” are grouped in with vintage items.


What exactly are vintage buyers on the lookout for? Here, you’ll find a list of the most popular vintage items that are currently in demand.

Records

Records are a popular collectible item among various age groups. Those aged 25-34 tend to purchase contemporary releases, while the older generations are the ones on the lookout for original vintage records.

Vintage Advertising Signage

Vintage advertising signage is popular for the variety of colorful designs and gorgeous typography.

Vintage Books

Vintage books are another in-demand collectible item. These are popular both for their contents and for their stunning appearance.

Automobilia/Petroliana

Vintage dealers are seeing an uptick in sales of signage, oil cans, auto posters, chrome grills, emblems, and anything related to the automotive world.

Vintage Toys

Vintage toys are among the most highly popular collectible items. For many, toys bring a welcome connection to their childhood, which is often the motivation behind acquiring them.

Jewelry

Jewelry has always been a popular collectible item, and vintage styles are in high-demand. Art deco and period jewelry are popular with buyers.

Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern has been buzzed about in the design world for years. This style is broadly defined by architecture, furniture, and graphic design from the middle of the 20th century (about 1933 – 1965). This design style is incredibly popular right now, and anything that can be described as “mid-century modern” seems to sell like crazy.

Art Deco

Another design style that’s in demand right now? Art deco. This style is more lavish and over the top compared to the sleek design of mid-century modern. It was popularized in the 1920s and fell out of style during the Great Depression and World War II.

Art Nouveau

Another in-demand design style, art nouveau, is characterized by its asymmetrical, curvy forms, often inspired by the curves of plants and flowers. The style was at its most popular between 1890 and 1910.

Lamps/Lighting

And last but not least, gorgeous vintage lamps in a variety of styles are another in-demand item. If not already in working order, vintage lamps can be rewired and given a new life!


Sources:


https://www.farmantiques.net/blog/whats-the-difference-between-antique-vintage#/


https://www.antiquetrader.com/antiques-news/asheford-institute-of-antiques-reports-top-trends


http://www.antiquesage.com/8-antique-investing-trends-next-decade/


https://www.homesandgardens.com/news/antique-home-decor-trends


https://fashionista.com/2022/01/gen-z-vintage-resellers-market


https://archive.curbed.com/2017/11/22/16690454/midcentury-modern-design-mad-men-eames

https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/art-deco-design-style-101


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Nouveau

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Collectibles Insurance Services has been protecting collections since 1966 and all coverage is provided by a carrier with a group rating of “A” (Excellent) by AM Best, the leading rating agency for the insurance industry.

Comprehensive coverage includes, but is not limited to: accidental breakage, burglary, fire, flood, loss in the mail, theft, natural disasters, and other causes of loss unless specifically excluded from the policy. Deductibles start at $0 for collector policies and we provide coverage for the market value of your collection for losses in excess of $50.

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