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Classic arcade games from the 1980s and 1990s evoke a sense of nostalgia in many people. Arcades were an exciting hang-out spot, and the bright lights and flashy colors came to signify a fun Friday or Saturday night.

Over the years, the arcade game industry has evolved. While going to the arcade may not have the same level of popularity as it did back in the day, arcade games have come to be viewed as a popular collectible item. Many people are starting at-home game rooms and loading them with classic arcade games.

Collecting classic arcade games isn’t for everyone. Not only are the arcade games quite expensive to procure, but an arcade cabinet also takes up a lot of space. If you want to invest your time and effort into classic arcade game collecting, it’s important to make sure that you are willing to make the investment of money and space.

Game On! The Ultimate Guide to Collecting Arcade Games

Are you interested in starting your own extensive collection of classic arcade games? You may have a lot of questions! Where should you buy arcade games? How do you take care of them? And perhaps the most pressing question: where will you display your arcade games?

Where to Find Arcade Games

When considering the hobby of arcade collecting, one question that springs to mind is where exactly one should purchase a game. There are plenty of reputable sellers online, such as The Pinball Company, Arcade1Up, and Game Room Shop, among others. You may also consider buying from an individual. Keep in mind that you may need to invest in repairs when buying from an individual as opposed to a shop. You can score arcade games on Craig’s List or on Facebook marketplace. Be sure that you are educated on arcade games so that you can easily assess the condition of the machine you are buying.

Maintenance of Arcade Games

When investing in arcade games, keep in mind that these machines will occasionally require maintenance. You will need to keep your machine clean and free of dust. It’s important to give the machine a dusting and cleanse with a mild cleanser that is safe to use on your machine. You may also sometimes require the assistance of a professional in the event of a mechanical failure. You can find experts near you by searching online.

Display Space for Arcade Games

Arcade games take up a lot of space, so make sure you have adequate room in your home before leaping into this hobby. A game room, spare bedroom, or finished basement (that doesn’t flood) may be the perfect spot to stash these oversized collectibles.

Collecting 101: Four Cardinal Rules for Every Arcade Game Collector

If you are considering taking up this hobby of classic arcade game collecting, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are five expectations that you should set for yourself before you dive in!

Expect to pay big bucks for classic arcade games

Collectors have noticed that over the years, this hobby has gotten pricier. Having your own game room in your house is considered super-cool, and perhaps with the advent of COVID, people have decided that a personal game room is better than playing arcade games in public.

Rare arcade games are worth more money

As with many a collectible item, classic arcade games that are hard to come by tend to be worth more money than the ones that are plentiful and easy to find. This should motivate you to devote extra time to the hunt, which many people find to be thrilling. Your diligent efforts to add unique games to your collection will be rewarded.

There are so many games to choose from – and you may need to be selective

Over the years there have been many different arcade games introduced to players across the country. From PacMan to Knights of Valour, there are lots of games to choose from. Since they take up a lot of space, you’ll want to be choosy when adding to your collection. Focus on a niche that you especially enjoy – this will make the money and space investment worthwhile.

You might find yourself addicted to collecting classic arcade games

Arcade collecting can be quite addictive – so don’t be surprised if you find yourself surrounded by your very own personal game room. Be sure to enjoy the process of finding the items, designing your game room, and of course, playing the games!

Playing for Keeps: Assessing the Investment Value of Arcade Games

Could collecting classic arcade games be a more exciting way of funding your retirement? Despite their high value, most arcade games are unlikely to see a significant increase in value over time, so you may not end up with a huge return on investment. If you plan to play with your arcade games, you will actually be putting a lot of wear and tear on them and possibly find you need to pay for repairs or maintenance.

Collecting classic arcade games should be more for the fun and excitement of it, rather than a viable investment. While there are a few rare games that increase in value, not every arcade cabinet plays by those rules.

High-Score Collectibles: Identifying the Most Valuable Arcade Games

Looking to score some of the most valuable arcade games? Here is a list of the top eight most valuable arcade games available today. Some of them are quite rare, so you’ll need a bit of luck scoring one for your collection.

Atari Quantum – Worth $10,000

This vector-based video game was based on real-world physics. Today, this is one of the most expensive arcade games available, with a cost around $10,000.

Sinistar (Duramold) – Worth Between $5,000 and $10,000

In this game, one pilots a spaceship and extracts crystals from different small planets. How many of these games still exist today is unknown, but gamers are willing to shell out thousands to acquire one.

Atari Star Wars Cockpit – Worth Between $3,000 and $7,000

This extra-large cabinet takes up a lot of space and is one of Atari’s most expensive cabinets. Because of how much space it took up, many arcade owners opted for other games, which makes this a super rare find today.

Blaster (Cockpit) – Worth $5,000

This arcade game features a cabinet that players can sit in for an immersive experience. Just five were produced, making this enormous arcade game very valuable and rare.

Cosmic Chasm – Worth $5,000

This game was one of Cinematronics’ final games in 1983, with the arcade cabinet being developed just as the company was going bankrupt. This rare item is in high demand, which gives it a high value as a collectible.

Aztarac – Worth $5,000

Created by Centuri in 1983, Aztarac is a game set in outer space. It’s unique design adds to its value as a collectible item.

Splat! – Worth $5,000

This 1982 game was a cabinet game designed for two players. In the game, the objective is to pick up food and toss it at your rival player. There are three characters to choose from.

Blaster (Upright) – Worth Between $3,500 and $4,000

In this game, the objective is to kill opponents and overcome various hurdles to free astronauts that have become stranded in deep space.

The Space Equation: How Much Room You’ll Need for Your Arcade Haven

If you plan to begin collecting classic arcade games, a key consideration is how much space you have available for your collection. Most arcade games take up significant space, and starting a collection in your home will require some dedicated real estate.

Many classic arcade game collectors have a special game room set aside that is filled with their vintage arcade games. This can be an exciting way to both display your collection and make it easy for yourself and guests to actually play with the games. Check out your local arcades for inspiration on both the layout and the décor that you can include in the space.

Besides having plenty of space, you’ll also want to make sure that you have enough electrical outlets in the designated space to accommodate your games. If your room only has a few outlets, consider hiring an electrician to outfit the space with the needed electrical setup.

Before You Insert Coin: Factors to Consider When Buying an Arcade Game

Are you looking into buying arcade games for your burgeoning game room? Be sure to consider these factors before you buy!

Price: Before you purchase an arcade game, you’ll want to consider the price. Do a little research online and see what that particular game has been selling for. This should help you determine whether what you’re paying is fair.

Rarity: Rarity tends to impact the price when it comes to classic arcade game collecting. It also makes the item more desirable for your collection.

Space: As we mentioned before, arcade games tend to take up a lot of space in your home. Before purchasing one, make sure you actually have room to add to your collection!

Vendor: Are you buying from a reputable vendor? Purchasing a refurbished game from a reputable vendor is less risky that buying from an individual who is unknown. You may find you need to shell out more money for repairs when buying from an individual, so make sure that the price you pay is lower and reflects this.

Condition: When buying arcade games, the condition is an important factor. A game in poor condition may require more money for repairs. Consider this when making a purchase!

FAQ

How do I get started in collecting arcade games?

First, be sure that you have space in your home for these sizeable collectable items. Second, make sure that you have some extra money that you are willing to sink into this hobby. Look for reputable sellers to purchase from, and do your research to figure out which games you want to add to your collection, whether it be Donkey Kong or Pac Man.

Are there online communities where arcade game collectors congregate?

You can find various forums or threads on Reddit where you can meet other arcade game collectors and ask questions about the hobby.

What are the most common mistakes people make when collecting arcade games?

It’s important to recognize that arcade games are not necessarily the best investment opportunity. The cost of entering this hobby is high, and the value of the games is not likely to increase further, especially if you are putting wear and tear on the games. Be sure to enter this hobby for the love of the games, rather than viewing it as an investment.

Sources

https://www.therichest.com/luxury/these-are-the-8-most-expensive-arcade-games-of-all-time/

Mini Brands went viral on TikTok in 2019, gaining popularity with kids and adults alike. What exactly are Mini Brands? They are tiny, realistic models of a variety of branded food and grocery items, including Breyer’s ice cream tubs, Spam, Skippy peanut butter, Dove lotion, TRESemme shampoo and conditioner, and much more!

These capsules loaded with miniatures create a lot of excitement for recipients, who enjoy the process of finding the best ones. Read on as we discuss these tiny collectibles and what makes them so appealing!

How Many Mini Brands Are There?

Right now, there are three different series of Mini Brands and one Toy Mini Brands series that has miniature versions of popular toys. In series two, there are over 70 brands that you can collect, including mini grocery carts and bags that go with the products.

What You Should Know About Collecting Mini Brands

When you receive a Mini Brands capsule egg, the egg contains five mini objects. One of the mini accessories that comes with each egg is a shopping cart or basket, and the other four are the miniatures of the various brands. Each capsule also contains a checklist that lists all of the available items and how hard they are to find.

The Mini Brands items are all 1/6 scale. They are usually under 2 inches tall. One 5 Surprise Mini Brands ball costs between $7 and $11.

Why Are Mini Brands so Popular with Influencers?

One of the exciting aspects of Mini Brands is the unboxing. It’s fun to open a capsule because you never know what you’re going to get! Some people really enjoy the excitement of the reveal.

This has contributed to their popularity on TikTok. Influencers can open their capsule online and reveal what’s inside, which is a popular trend with many other collectible items.

How to Expand Your Collection

The best way to expand your collection of Mini Brands is to keep buying the capsule eggs to acquire as much of the collection as you can! You can purchase these capsules online at Target, Walmart, Amazon, and more.

Keep in mind that you may end up with duplicates, as some items are more common to find than others. You can trade with other collectors to help you acquire as many of the available brands as possible!

FAQs

What to know before you buy a Mini Brands toy?

Each Mini Brands toy contains five miniature items. Depending on which series you purchase, they could be miniature versions of popular grocery items or miniature toys. Some items are more rare to find in a Mini Brands capsule, while others are more common. Each capsule contains a list of all available items in that series and their rarity.

How many Mini Brand series are there?

There are three different series of mini brands. Two of them are based on grocery store items, while one is based on popular toy brands.

What year did Mini Brands come out?

Mini Brands was launched in 2019 and became a TikTok sensation. The unboxing aspect of this toy is what contributed to its popularity.

Sources

https://geekmom.com/2019/08/5-surprise-mini-brands/

https://kdvr.com/reviews/br/toys-games-br/pretend-play-br/best-mini-brands-toy/amp/

Family heirlooms are special items that are passed down in a family. They could be anything from a special wedding dress, to a prized piece of jewelry, to a handmade quilt. These precious items are passed from one generation to the next, and preserving these items is like preserving a special piece of family history.

Family heirlooms are among the most treasured collectible items. They are often proudly put on display and meticulously cared for by their owners. Beyond preserving the piece itself, there is often a story that goes with the item, and memorializing that story by writing it down is often an important way to ensure that family history is passed on to the next generation.

Perhaps you are looking to create your own heirlooms. You want to pass something on, and you’re not sure which items will work the best as an heirloom. In this blog post, we will discuss a variety of different items that could be passed on as family heirlooms, as well as our tips for preserving them.

Family Heirloom Jewelry Ideas

Jewelry is one of the most common heirlooms that gets passed down through the family, perhaps due to its high value. Here are some items you could pass on to your children:

Engagement Rings & Wedding Bands:

Engagement rings often make a great family heirloom! Often, a mother’s or grandmother’s ring is passed on to the next generation. Sometimes the entire ring is passed on and simply resized to fit its new owner. Other times, the gemstones and metal may be used to create a ring in a more current style for its new recipient. Either way, passing on your engagement ring is a good way to preserve some family history. If you don’t want the ring to be altered, be sure to make those wishes known to the new owners of the ring.

Rings, Brooches, Necklaces, or Pins:

Any type of jewelry that you treasure can be passed down in your family. Special rings, brooches, necklaces, and even pins can be a treasure trove of sentimental value. They don’t always have to be extremely valuable – if you have costume jewelry that is special to you, you can pass it on to your family members.

Pieces with Monetary Value:

If you own any extremely valuable pieces of jewelry, these can be passed down in your family as both an heirloom and a simple way of preserving family wealth. If you have invested a significant amount of money into a piece, be sure to make that known to your next of kin, so that the piece isn’t parted with for a low amount of money when you pass on. If you have any documentation that goes with your jewelry, be sure to keep that stored in a safe place and let family members know where to find it.

Historical Pieces of Jewelry:

You may already own a family heirloom that has historical significance, or perhaps you simply love antique jewelry and own some pieces that you would like to pass on. What makes these pieces special is the story behind them, so be sure to document anything that you know about the piece by writing it down!

Other Pieces with Emotional Value:

You may have other pieces of jewelry that have special emotional value, such as items given to you by a spouse or by another family member. Save these pieces to pass along, and be sure to share the story that goes with them!

Family Heirloom Clothing and Accessory Ideas

Clothing and other accessories can make great family heirlooms. Here are some of our favorite items to pass down:

Wedding Dresses:

Vintage wedding dresses can be a special item to pass down to the next generation. The tricky part about this is that styles change over the years, so your dress may not be in fashion by the time a special wedding rolls around. If you aren’t too attached, you might allow the new bride to alter the dress to suit her style. If you can’t stand to see your dress altered, then perhaps you could pass on a veil or another wedding accessory.

Fur Coats:

Fur coats can be incredibly valuable, beyond being a precious family heirloom. You can pass a fur coat on as an heirloom to be worn for special occasions. They also make great accessories for a winter wedding! Be sure to care for them properly. There are services available that will help you clean and care for your furs, so take advantage of them.

Vintage Clothing:

Wearing vintage clothing has become quite popular! Passing on your clothing to the next generation gives it a new lease on life. As with anything you pass on, be sure to provide instructions to the recipient about whether or not you mind seeing the clothing altered to suit their taste. If you have photos of yourself wearing the outfits you are passing down, be sure to share those when you pass on the clothing. It can be exciting to see how the same item was worn by people of multiple generations.

Baby Clothes:

Baby clothes can be great family heirlooms! When it comes to baby clothes, focus on clothing that was worn for special occasions or has a special meaning to you. Styles change, so you may not be able to pass on these clothes to be worn by a new baby. However, you may want to preserve items such as a christening gown or an outfit worn for a baby dedication.

Quilts or Blankets:

Handmade quilts or knitted blankets can be a great item to pass down! They are practical, and if kept in good condition they can easily be put to use by the new recipient.

Family Heirloom Recipe Ideas

Recipes are often handed down to other family members, and there are some unique ways to preserve these special recipes. Here are some of our ideas:

Handwritten Recipes:

Handwritten family recipes can be a special thing to pass on to future generations. If they are on the older side, be sure to store them in such a way that they are protected. You may consider an album sleeve, or even laminating the recipe, so that it doesn’t get destroyed.

Notated Recipe Books:

If you have a lot of family recipes, you might consider creating your own recipe book and having it printed. The great thing about this is that you can include any family stories or history that go along with the recipes.

Vintage Cooking Items:

You might consider passing on vintage kitchen utensils. An even more popular heirloom is when you pass down a special set of dishes or china. It can be exciting to see these special items given a new life when a younger generation puts them to use.

Other Family Heirloom Keepsake Ideas

There are a plethora of items that can be passed down to younger family members. Here are some that fit into the “miscellaneous” category:

Books:

If you have a special copy of a book, this can be handed down to the next generation. Make it extra special by writing an inscription on the inside of the front or back cover. Date it and sign your name so that they remember where it came from!

Photographs and Albums:

Family photos are always an exciting thing to browse through. Take good care of yours by preserving them in photo albums. You can also make memory books online using services such as Shutterfly.

Letters and Correspondence:

What better way to learn family history than by reading family letters written by the older generation? These days letter writing is a lost art, but consider saving birthday and holiday cards, as well as thank you notes that were written by someone special. You can also consider saving journals and diaries – as long as you don’t mind them being read by someone else!

Furniture and Home Décor:

Furniture and home décor are great items to pass on to the next generation. If the piece isn’t too valuable, it can even be revamped to suit the style of the recipient. If the piece is valuable, be sure to pass on instructions so that the person using it knows that altering the design will affect the value.

Memorabilia and Collectibles:

If you have a special collection, you may consider passing it on to the next generation. If you do this, it’s important to find out if the person you are passing it on to has an interest in the collection. Taking care of a collection can be a lot of work, and storing it can be tricky. You’ll want to make sure that the next generation genuinely wants the responsibility of caring for such items.

Preserving, Documenting, and Passing Down Heirlooms

Once you’ve chosen an item to pass on as an heirloom, it’s important that the item is preserved, well-documented, and passed down to someone who genuinely is interested in the piece. Here are some tips for accomplishing this:

Preservation Techniques:

With any family heirloom, you’ll want to take special care of it to preserve it. The technique you use depends on the type of item. Pass on care and proper storage instructions along with the item to make things easier for the new recipient.

Documentation and Storytelling:

With any heirloom, knowing the story behind the item provides additional context that truly adds to the item’s sentimental value. Be sure to document any important stories that go along with your items and pass this documentation along with the item.

Passing Down Heirlooms:

If you are planning on passing down an heirloom to a specific family member, it’s important to talk to them about it and make sure it is an item that they are interested in and plan to take care of. Some items, especially larger items or ones that require a lot of care, may present a bit of a burden to the recipient if they aren’t very interested in it. If the person you want to pass something on to isn’t interested in the item, consider passing it along to someone else or selling it.

Digital Heirlooms:

With items such as family photos, a great way to share them is to digitize them. There are photo sharing apps you can use to ensure that all family members have access to this library of digital photos, and this can ensure that they are enjoyed by everyone in your family.

FAQs

Why are family heirlooms important?

Family heirlooms are important because they are a tangible way to preserve family histories. They often have stories that go along with them, and retelling these stories is an exciting way to keep a family’s history alive.

Online auction houses are a great place to score new items to grow your collection! The great thing about an online auction house versus an in-person auction is that you can bid on items that are being sold around the world, which gives you access to things that normally you might have to travel to purchase. They can be a great way to grow your collection and find unique items that would be difficult to locate in person.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the various online auction platforms that are available, plus our best auction tips for scoring big at online auctions.

The Online Auction Process

In an online auction, the auction item is put up for sale with a minimum bid and has a deadline of when the auction will come to an end. People can then place bids on that item and the highest bidder at the end of the auction will be able to purchase the item. That item is then shipped to the person with the highest final bid.

Best Online Auction Houses

Looking to buy collectibles online but not sure where to get started? Here are some of the most popular online auction houses where you can add to your collection:

eBay

eBay is the most popular online auction site of all. You can bid on a wide variety of items in multiple categories. They are well-established and they have tools to measure the reputations of buyers and sellers to instill confidence in both buyers and sellers.

ShopGoodwill

ShopGoodwill is an online auction site where you can bid on popular items from Goodwill stores. You can opt to have your items shipped, or you can do local pickup on select items. The proceeds benefit a good cause, and the platform is very easy to use.

Webstore

Webstore is a great auction site for purchasing collectible items. There are no fees or memberships required, and it is free to use. Auctions span a wide variety of categories, including art, music, sports memorabilia, books, magazines, clothing, movies, jewelry, pottery, and much more!

Auction Zip

AuctionZip provides live auctions where users can bid in real time. You can find out if you’ve won pretty quickly. This site charges a $20 sellers fee per listing, but you can access auctions from all around the world.

Catawiki

Catawiki specializes in selling unique items for online auctions. All items are shipped within three business days. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this site charges fees, which are not included in the purchase price.

Heritage Auctions

The world’s largest collectibles auctioneer is Heritage Auctions. Here, you can bid on a wide variety of collectible categories. They are well-established and trusted among collectors.

Online Auction Registration and Account Setup Tips

Before you can make your first bid, you need to create an account with the online auction website where you plan to bid. These sites typically allow you to store payment options, as well as set bidding preferences. You’ll most likely need to verify your identity and payment information during the account creation process.

Once you have an account setup, you can visit pages for various auctions until you find something you’d like to place a bid on.

Proven Tips for Successful Bidding

Once you’ve got your account setup and determined an item you would like to bid on, it’s important to follow these tips for successful bidding:

Understand the Rules of the Auction

Before you start bidding, familiarize yourself with the rules of the auction. Each bidding website will have different rules. Be sure to review the terms and conditions so that you are aware of them and can avoid being penalized.

Add Desired Items to a Watchlist

On auction sites such as eBay, you can add items to your Watchlist. This will give you updates on the current status of the auction, which can help you make good bidding decisions and be aware when an item’s auction is coming to an end.

Be Aware of the Bid Clock

The bid clock is the time period during which you can bid on an item. Many sites have auctions that run for a set number of days. Be sure to be aware of when the last day to bid is, so that you can bid on items you really want before the clock runs out.

Set a Budget

Determine ahead of time what is the highest bid you will make for a specific item and stick to it! This will help you avoid overpaying.

Research the Item

Research the item you are thinking of bidding on and find out what it is selling for online. Knowing the current market value can help you know what is a reasonable price to pay for the item, and can help you avoid overpaying.

Pay Promptly

Be sure to pay for your item as soon as possible if your bid is accepted. This can help you avoid additional fees, and it’s also the more polite and courteous thing to do for the seller.

Consider Financing Options for Expensive Items

If you are buying an expensive item, the website might offer financing options to allow you to pay over a period of time. Take advantage of this for higher ticket items!

Use Automated Bidding

With automated bidding, you can set your maximum bid and the system will automatically place bids for you up to the price that you determine. This saves you a lot of time if you don’t have the time to heavily monitor the auction for the item you are buying.

Start With a Higher Bid

A low bid can easily turn into a bidding war. Starting the bidding at a slightly higher price can help you eliminate some of the competition and make the bidding process run more smoothly.

Bid on Less Active Items

If an item isn’t active, you have a much better chance of winning that item than if the listing is very active. You could win the item for a lower bid.

Bid at the Last Minute

One strategy for bidding involves watching the auction clock and placing your bid at the very last minute. This is a great option for less active auctions, but if you try this with a very active auction, it might not work, as others might be trying the same tactic.

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Auctions

Before you get involved in the auction process, it’s important to take steps to avoid common mistakes that people make when bidding on an item. Here are three common mistakes to watch out for before you place bids:

Overbidding and Getting Carried Away

Before you bid on an item, determine how much is the maximum cost that you are willing to pay, and then stick to it! This will help you avoid getting carried away during the bidding process and bidding too much on an item.

Failing to Read Item Descriptions Carefully

Be sure to read the item description carefully and review all photos of the item. It’s important that you know what you are buying and any flaws that the item has before you make a commitment to purchase. A good seller will note any flaws and other characteristics in the listing and photos.

Not Factoring in Shipping Costs

Always remember to check the shipping cost and add this to the overall price of the item. Sometimes, the shipping cost can be expensive – especially for larger items – and it’s important to include this as part of the purchase price.

FAQs

What is a good auction strategy?

There are a variety of good auction strategies that you can employ to help you win! They are discussed at length earlier in this post.

How do I win more auctions?

You can win more auctions in a variety of ways. Some tactics you can try are bidding later in the auction, bidding on less active items, or starting with a higher bid.

Is it better to bid early or late?

The earlier you bid, the more likely someone else is going to come along and beat your offer. Bidding later reduces the chances of this happening.

What not to do at an auction?

Don’t bid more than you are willing to pay for an item, and be sure to pay for any items that you win promptly. This is courteous to the seller, but it also ensures you don’t get hit with any late fees.

Sources

https://www.bidequip.com/blog/11-tips-for-bidding-at-an-online-auction/

https://www.lifewire.com/online-auction-website-3482641

Collectible dolls can be both beautiful and valuable! There are many types of antique dolls, from bisque dolls to Chinese porcelain dolls, and the oldest and rarest of them can be worth quite a bit of money. Antique doll collectors may focus on dolls from different time periods or made of specific materials.

When identifying the most valuable antique dolls, it’s important to have a bit of knowledge under your belt. You’ll want to be able to identify a porcelain doll from a bisque doll. You’ll want to be able to figure out which dollmaker manufactured the doll and its approximate age. You’ll also want to examine the doll’s condition to determine how much it is worth.

Read on as we explore the world of antique dolls and how to determine their value!

How to Identify Antique Dolls and Their Value

Interested in learning more about your antique porcelain dolls? From Chinese porcelain dolls to bisque dolls, we’ve compiled a complete guide to antique doll identification. Read on for our best tips on how to identify the origin of your antique doll and its value.

Identify the type of doll

The first step in determining the value of an antique doll is to determine what type of doll it is. Some of the earliest dolls fell into these popular antique doll categories:

China Porcelain Dolls

Between 1840 and 1880, Chinese porcelain dolls had china heads, while the body was made out of wood. Only the rarest of dolls were made entirely from porcelain. The porcelain was glazed to give the dolls a nice, shiny appearance. In the 1850s, German, Japan, and US dollmakers switched their technique to give these china dolls a more realistic skin tone.

Bisque Dolls

Bisque is an unglazed porcelain that has a matte finish. It was used to make dolls’ heads and achieve a realistic skin tone. Bisque doll production started by French and German doll manufacturers in the late 1860s. Usually, the rest of the body of a bisque doll was manufactured from lighter materials. There were three primary types of bisque dolls:

• Adult fashion dolls: These valuable antique dolls were fashioned after adult women and wore stylish clothing.
• Baby dolls: These childlike dolls became popular in the late 19th century. They were made for playing with and they wore contemporary clothing.
• Character dolls: These dolls wore costumes and were designed to imitate a specific personality.

Parian Dolls

Parian dolls are white and unglazed bisque dolls. Made from porcelain, these dolls did not have any added color. They were expensive to produce, so they were often used for display rather than for playing with. They lost their popularity in the 1880s.

Look for the maker’s mark to identify the manufacturer

Most dolls have a mark on them that will help you figure out who manufactured them. Check out your doll’s head, neck, shoulder, or foot for a manufacturer’s mark. This will help you identify where the doll came from. This marking is usually a drawing, letter, number, or a combination of letters and numbers.

Some popular doll manufacturers include:

• Armand Marseille: Armand Marseille dolls are among the most common antique dolls. The German company made dolls with bisque heads between 1885 and 1930.
• Bertha Alexander: The Bertha Alexander Doll Company was started in 1923. These dolls, which became known as Madame Alexander dolls, were popular for their fashionable clothing.
• The Ideal Novelty and Toy Company: Created in 1907, they were known for their “unbreakable” composition dolls and character dolls.

Identify the materials the doll is made of

An important way to evaluate your antique doll is to examine the materials the doll is made from. The materials will give you a hint about the time period that the doll is from! Materials, as mentioned previously, can include china porcelain and bisque.

Identify the doll’s condition

When it comes to antique dolls, there are six labels that can help identify condition:

• Mint
• Near Mint
• Very Fine
• Fine
• Good
• Poor

The best dolls are in mint condition, and if they have their original packaging, the value will be even higher. To determine condition, examine your doll carefully with a magnifying glass to spot imperfections such as cracks and chips.

Look for similar dolls

A great way to determine the value of your doll and even to get clues about its origins is to find dolls that are comparable and examine those. You may be able to find similar dolls selling online and use the description and the price that the doll is selling for to assess the value and origins of your doll.

Examine all parts of the doll

It’s important to evaluate all parts of the doll. You may find that certain parts have been repaired, which extends the life of the doll, but may lower the value.

• Doll body: Antique dolls often had bodies made of wood, porcelain, or bisque. Later dolls had bodies made of cloth.
• Doll eyes: Painted glass eyes indicate that a doll is antique. They typically can’t move in older dolls.
• Doll hair: Older dolls had molded hair that was painted with color. Some dolls from the 1800s had hair that more closely resembled human hair.
• Doll clothing: Dolls from the 1800s to 1900s wore clothing that was often made from leather. After this period of time, manufacturers began making clothing from synthetic materials. If clothing is clean and free of stains, the doll will have more value.

Browse Antique Doll Price Guides & Sold Values

Browse the internet and you will find access to plenty of doll price guides and doll reference books. These can help you identify your antique doll’s value. Check out sites such as Amazon to view their guides. You can also look at doll auctions and find out what the final selling price was for similar dolls to yours.

Resources for Doll Collectors

Get connected with experts and fellow antique doll collectors for access to resources that will help you identify your doll’s value. Here are some resources that can help:

• The National Antique Dolls Dealers Association (NADDA): This organization was founded in 1986 to help dealers of antique dolls create a sense of confidence and trust with doll collectors.
• The United Federation of Doll Clubs, Inc.: This international organization is completely dedicated to doll collecting.
• Antique Doll Collector Magazine: Subscribe to this magazine and be sure to check out their digital back issues to learn as much as you can about doll collecting and the doll community.

FAQs

Is there an app to identify dolls?

There is not an app to identify dolls, but there are resources available. The National Antique Dolls Dealers Association (NADDA) and The United Federation of Doll Clubs, Inc. are two groups dedicated to antique dolls. You can also subscribe to Antique Doll Collector Magazine to learn more about antique dolls.

Are very old dolls worth money?

An antique doll can be worth a lot of money on the doll market. Examine similar old dolls on the internet to help you determine your doll’s value!

Are there any porcelain dolls worth money?

Yes, your antique porcelain doll could be worth a lot of money. Its value greatly depends on the doll’s age – is it an antique doll or a contemporary doll? The value is also impacted by the condition of the doll, the doll’s manufacturer, and the condition of the accessories and doll clothing.

Sources

https://www.nonamehiding.com/old-dolls-worth-money/

https://www.invaluable.com/blog/antique-porcelain-dolls/

https://www.lovetoknow.com/home/antiques-collectibles/antique-doll-value

If you are a collector, one of the top things on your mind is likely how to display your carefully curated collection. Whether you collect vintage Fenton glassware, comic books, or superhero action figures, a well-thought-out display is sure to take your collection from “clutter” to “museum-worthy”!

To help you as you build your display, we’ve put together some great ideas to help you display your prized collection. We hope that these collection display ideas help you as you design a beautiful display for your favorite things!

5 Beautiful Ways to Display Collections

Looking for some more inspiration on how to display your prized collection? Here are five display ideas that are popular with collectors everywhere!

Shelving displays

A popular way to showcase a curated collection is by creating shelving especially for your display. You can find prebuilt shelving at stores such as Ikea or Walmart. Cube shelves or bookshelves can work beautifully for this purpose. If the pre-fabricated shelving options don’t suit your needs, you could also consider having your shelves custom built for your collection. Shelves are a great display option for vintage lunchboxes, apothecary jars, vintage cameras, and more.

Wall displays

If you are displaying an art collection, prints, beautiful pictures, or movie posters, a stunning gallery wall display is a great way to make a big statement with your collection. You can give everything a cohesive look by placing your artwork in matching frames on your walls. Cover an entire wall or display them in clusters throughout various areas in your home, such as your living room, dining room, hallways, bedrooms, or even your bathroom. If your collection consists of small objects (such as vintage vanity mirrors, teacups, etc.), you can also hang them on the wall for a cool display.

Curio displays

Curio cabinets, or display cabinets covered in glass, are a very popular choice for displaying eye catching collections. The glass front of the cabinet keeps fragile collections, such as Blue Willow plates or Fenton glassware, safe from accidental breakage. Another huge benefit of curio cabinets is that they protect your precious collection from dust, which offers additional protection for older items that must be preserved, and makes things easier for you!

Surface Displays

You can display a collection throughout your home on surfaces that include dressers, end tables, your coffee table, and more. Group like items together, and collect smaller items in glass jars or containers.

Floor Displays

If your items are large enough, you could display them on your floor. For example, vintage clothing could be displayed on mannequins that you group together in various areas of your home, or all in one place.

How to Organize Collections at Home

If you have a large collection, keeping it well-organized is a huge part of creating a successful display. Good organization can elevate your collection and give it a museum quality. Here are some tips for how you could organize your collected items.

Group by theme

You can group like items together for a more curated feel! For example, if you have a vintage toy collection, group items by production year, by brand, or by character.

Use clear containers for your collections

If you must store your items away, use clear storage containers (unless of course, they need to be kept away from direct sunlight). This will also help you locate them more easily.

Curate objects by color and type

If it makes sense for your collection, you can group by color or by shape or size to create an impressive display. This is a stunning way to display collections of vintage glassware! Many collectors like to create a rainbow with their collectible pieces.

Show off everyday favorites

Some collectors find that choosing a favorite among their individual pieces is difficult! But if you have favorites in your collection, display those pieces more prominently. This will maximize the joy you get from looking at your collectibles.

Rotate your collectibles

You don’t need to keep your displays the same all the time! A few times a year, consider rotating your collectibles so that different items can take turns having center stage. This is also a great idea if you don’t have room to display your entire collection at once. It ensures that each item has a time to shine!

FAQs

What are the hot collectible items?

Some popular collectible items to display in your home include glassware (such as Fenton or Blue Willow china), comic books, movie posters, framed artwork, antique and vintage toys, and much more! Collecting is a great way to fill your home with unique decor and add personality – and you can even give your home a museum-like quality to it, depending on how you display your collection!

How do you display a vase collection?

You could display a vase collection by placing it around your home with your other decor, or you could display it all in one place using shelves or curio cabinets.

How do you display small porcelain figurines?

The safest way to display small porcelain figures it to place them in a curio cabinet. This protects them from accidental breakage, as well as from dust.

Pokémon card collecting is an extremely popular pastime! The Pokémon franchise has been around since the 1990s, first gaining popularity overseas before making its way to the United States. It has remained steadily popular, and it even experienced a resurgence in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, when collectors stuck at home took a renewed interest in organizing and growing their existing collections.

Over the years, some of the most in-demand and rarest Pokémon cards have shot up significantly in value. In this blog post, we’ll be listing some of the rarest and most valuable Pokémon cards of all time, plus exploring the reason behind the buzz for each valuable card.

The Most Expensive and Rarest Pokémon Cards

Identifying rare Pokémon cards requires some skill and knowledge. You may be wondering, which cards are the most valuable in the Pokémon world? What are the best Pokémon cards to invest in?

Read on as we uncover some of the most valuable Pokémon cards in the Pokémon franchise – and uncover the reasons why they are the most valuable and rarest Pokémon cards.

Black Triangle Base Set Booster Pack – $2,700

At one point, Wizards of the Coast printed too many Base Set booster packs that contained the 1st edition logo. They covered this logo with a small black triangle. This has created a valuable collector’s item, the Black Triangle Base Set Booster pack. If you happen to find one of these, avoid the temptation to open the pack, as the packaging is what gives this set its value of $2,700.

Topps Chrome Charizard Tekno #06 – $23,000

This card is valuable for both its age and its rarity. In the early 2000s, Topps had a license to produce Pokémon cards. While you can’t use them in the Pokémon Trading Card Game, these early Topps cards have become very valuable. The Topps Chrome Charizard Tekno sold in March 2022 for $23,000 in an eBay auction.

Master Scroll – $25,000

This 2010 Master Scroll Trophy card, which is not available in English, was awarded to anyone who earned 8,600 points in the Japanese Pokémon fan club called the Daisuki Club. A grade 9 version of this rare card sold on eBay for $25,000.

Gold Pikachu – $29,520

The Gold Pikachu Pokémon card was introduced in 2018 for the 20th anniversary of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Although it’s a relatively new card, it is among the rarest and most valuable cards. It is made with 11 grams of 24-karat gold and replicates the original design of the Japanese Pikachu card.

Holographic Crystal Charizard 1st edition – $40,800

This card originated from the Mysterious Mountains e-card Pokémon TCG expansion pack. It was the last expansion created by Wizards of the Coast before their license to print Pokémon cards ran out. You can put this card through an e-reader for additional content, such as games or Pokedex info. One of these Pokémon cards sold in an October 2022 auction for $40,800.

Holographic Gold Star Rayquaza – $45,100

This card is the biggest chase card from one of the rarest Pokémon Booster Boxes in history. This card has a shiny holographic sparkle to it, and the shiny Rayquaza is very popular with collectors. One of these Pokémon cards sold for $45,100 in 2020.

Holographic Gold Star Torchic – $50,000

Gold star Pokémon cards are popular with collectors because of how rare they are, as well as for their stunning artwork. This card shows Torchic popping out of the frame and winking. A grade 10 version of this card sold for $50,000 in October of 2021.

No. 2 Trainer – $50,300

This Pokémon card is a rare promo card that was made for the Tropical Mega Battle tournament, an annual competition that occurred from 1999-2001. The top three players in each region were awarded a card. In 2020, this card sold for $50,300.

Base Set No Rarity Venusaur – $55,000

This card is a 1st edition, and 1st edition Pokémon cards can fetch a pretty penny. This particular card had a printing issue that contributes to its value. The black star that is supposed to note the rarity of the card is missing. In 2021, this card sold for $55,000 at a PWCC auction.

2005 Summer Battle Road Mew Victory Orb – $60,000

This Pokémon card was awarded as a prize in the 2005 Summer Battle Road tournament, which had nine regional competitions. The top three players in each region received this card. It is quite rare, and a PSA 10 version sold in 2020 for $60,000.

64 Mario Stadium Chansey – $63,000

Nintendo hosted two contests while promoting the 1999 Nintendo 64 game, Pokémon Snap. For these contests, pictures taken in the videogame were made into Pokémon cards. Ten winners were chosen from each contest, and they received 20 copies each of their personalized Pokémon card. In December of 2022, one of these rare cards sold for $63,000.

1999 Tropical Mega Battle: Tropical Wind – $65,100

This card was a rare promo card that was made to celebrate the 1999 Tropical Mega Battle tournament. A PSA 10 version of this Pokémon card sold for $65,100 in October of 2020.

Master’s Key – $66,000

This rare Pokémon card was a prize given to those who competed in the 2019 Pokémon World Championships. In total, 36 participants were given this Pokémon card, which was auctioned for $66,000 by PWCC in May of 2023.

Magikarp Tamamushi University Promo – $66,100

These rare Pokémon cards were given to the winners of the 1998 Tamamushi University Hyper Text Campaign. There were most likely about 1,000 copies of this card originally made. One sold on eBay in February of 2021 for $66,100.

2005 Play Promo Holo Umbreon – $70,000

This rare Pokémon card was given to members of the Pokémon Players Club who earned 70,000 EXP points. Members start out with only 1,000 points, so this was quite an accomplishment. This card had a holographic version which was never produced in English. A holo version of the card sold for $70,000 in a 2021 PWCC auction.

No.1 Trainer – $90,000

This rare Pokémon card, which may be the rarest Pokémon card in existence, was given to finalists in the 1999 Secret Super Battle Tournament. Only seven copies of this Pokémon card are believed to have been made. There are six in PSA 10 condition known to exist, and one of them sold in 2020 for $90,000 at auction.

Holographic Lugia Neo Genesis 1st edition – $144,300

Lugia is a popular Pokémon character with fans, so it’s no wonder that this 1st edition holographic Lugia card is in demand with collectors. A grade 10 version of this Neo Genesis 1st edition Lugia sold for $144,300 in May 2021.

Kangaskhan Family Event Trophy – $150,100

This trophy Pokémon card was awarded to participants of the 1998 Pokémon TCG Battle Tournament. Each team in this tournament was comprised of a parent and a child. Teams that reached a certain spot in the contest were given this rare Pokémon card. It was never printed except for the tournament, and its rarity contributed to its sale price of $150,100 on eBay in October 2020.

Ishihara GX Promo – $247,230

Rather than featuring a Pokémon, this card actually highlights the president and founder of The Pokémon Company, Tsunekazu Ishihara. This Pokémon card was created to honor his 60th birthday and was given to employees who attended his party. In April of 2021, an autographed version of this Pokémon card sold for a whopping $247,230.

Trophy Pikachu No. 3 Trainer – $300,000

This Pokémon card came from June 1997, from the first ever Pokémon TCG tournament. All of the competitors that participated were children selected by a lottery. The Pikachu No. 3 trainer cards were awarded to the third and fourth place competitors in each of the tournaments. A copy of this ultra rare Pokémon card sold for $300,000 in April of 2023.

Presentation Blastoise – $360,000

The Presentation Blastoise Pokémon card was printed by Wizards of the Coast as a demonstration card, which was used to pitch the English version of the card game to Nintendo. This Pokémon card features some variations that make it more valuable, including different fonts, a missing energy symbol, and misspellings. In January 2021, a copy sold for $360,000 at auction.

Shadowless Charizard – $420,000

This 1st edition Pokémon card is a shiny Charizard that is prized for its rarity and for the printing error – a missing shadow from around the card’s image box. A PSA 10 mint condition version of this card sold for $420,000 in 2022.

Topsun Charizard Blue Back – $493,230

This very rare Pokémon card may not even be considered a true Pokémon card. This is actually a prototype card printed by Topsun, before Creatures Inc. created the current version of the Pokémon TCG. The card has a blue back and no numbering, which places it among the rarest Pokémon cards. There are estimated to be about 31 of them in existence. In January 2021, a PSA 10 version of this card sold for $493,230.

Pikachu Illustrator – $5.28 million

This legendarily rare Pokémon card was a promo card that was given to winners of a 1998 illustration competition that was hosted by CoroCoro, a Japanese magazine. Just 39 copies were made of this card, whose artwork was drawn by Atusko Nishida, the creator of Pikachu. Influencer Logan Paul spent $4 million, plus traded in another card worth $1,275,000, in order to obtain this card.

FAQs

Who owns the most expensive Pokémon card ever?

The most valuable Pokémon card is a Pikachu Illustrator Card. This valuable Pokémon card was purchased by Logan Paul for $5.28 million.

When did the Pokémon Trading Card Game gain popularity in the United States?

The Pokémon TCG arrived in the United States in 1998, and Pokémon cards have been popular there ever since.

Sources

https://www.wargamer.com/pokemon-trading-card-game/rare-pokemon-cards

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Pokemon-electronic-game

Negotiating the price on eBay can be a great tactic for saving money and getting a better deal on the item you are looking to buy. By effectively negotiating the price, you can save money and get more bang for your buck.

eBay typically sells items through auctions, but sellers have the option of including a “Best Offer” option. This is your opening for negotiation. The “Best Offer” option allows you to make an offer of what you are willing to pay and see if the buyer will accept that offer. The offer expires after a set amount of time, or when someone bids on the item.

Note that the “Best Offer” option is different from the “Buy it Now” feature. The “Buy it Now” feature allows you to buy the item right away for a fixed price determined by the seller, while the “Best Offer” allows you to offer any amount for payment. The “Buy it Now” is an offer to buyers to purchase the item upfront and skip the auction altogether.

Negotiating via the “Best Offer” option can be a great way to get the item for a lower price than it would fetch at auction. But before you make your offer, there are some important things to keep in mind. Read on as we explore some tactics for making successful negotiations on eBay.

Essential Tactics for Successful Negotiations on eBay

When making negotiations on eBay, there are many tactics that you can incorporate into your strategy. Here, we’ll discuss a number of essential tactics to keep in mind when negotiating on this selling platform.

Conduct Research

Before you start negotiating the item price, it’s important to conduct some background research. You don’t want to lowball your offer too much, and you’ll want to make sure that what you are offering is a fair price. Research the item in question and determine what it is selling for online. Be sure to keep your offer close to the determined value, or else your offer may get rejected.

Craft a Compelling Offer

Now that you’ve done your research, be sure to make an offer that will catch the seller’s attention. You don’t want to lowball them too much (this can even get you blocked!), but you do want to get a good deal. Keep all this in mind when deciding on an amount to offer.

Build Rapport with Sellers

If you know a seller personally or have purchased from them in the past, you may have a better chance of scoring a deal with them. You may also have better luck negotiating if you are buying multiple items from one seller.

Consider Contacting the Seller Directly

It is perfectly acceptable to message the seller directly and ask them questions. You can ask them specifically what their best price is on the item. This can help you to make an offer that they will be likely to accept.

Make a Counteroffer

If the seller rejects your offer, you have three chances on eBay to make a counteroffer. Try offering slightly more for the item and see if the seller accepts.

Understand What Makes a Seller Likely to Accept an Offer

If the listing has been on eBay for a long time (check the date of the listing), or if the buyer needs to offload the item to make space for additional inventory, they are more likely to accept your offer. Understanding this can help you figure out when a lower offer might be accepted.

Offer Immediate Payment

Some sellers are hesitant to accept offers because the buyers don’t always pay immediately after making the offer. Message them and let them know that you are very interested and offer immediate payment. This can incentivize them to accept your offer.

Showcase Your Positive Seller Feedback

If you have positive feedback from other eBay sellers, make a note of that when messaging the seller about your offer. Positive feedback means there is a better chance that you will pay promptly for your item, which might cause them to accept your offer.

Don’t Include Any Additional Terms

It is against eBay’s policy to include additional terms with your offer, such as requesting to drop the shipping costs or adding other items to your purchase for the same price. This can get you kicked off eBay, so avoid doing this!

Handling Potential Issues and Avoiding Scams

When buying on eBay, it’s important to keep a vigilant eye for counterfeit items and scams. Here are some tips for spotting potential red flags:

• The item is listed for way lower than the market value
• The seller has negative or no feedback on their profile
• The seller responds and pressures you to make a purchase
• The photo has poor quality photos – or none at all
• The seller wants to take the transaction off of eBay and asks for your payment and shipping information
• The auction has a short time frame

eBay has an authentication service that takes some of the guesswork away from buyers and instills more confidence in the purchase. With this service, the seller sends the item to eBay for authentication before it is passed on to the buyer. This is a great way to avoid scams and counterfeit items!

FAQs

Can you negotiate an eBay price?

You can negotiate the cost of buying an item on eBay by using the “Best Offer” option. You can make an offer to the seller to purchase the item for a lower price, and see if they accept your offer.

How do I politely counteroffer on eBay?

Once you’ve made your first offer and the buyer rejects it, you can make a counteroffer of a slightly higher amount. eBay allows you three chances to make a counteroffer.

Can I make purchases on the eBay app?

eBay’s app is a great tool that can help you make purchases and track auctions with ease.

Sources

https://techboomers.com/ebay-best-offers-tips-for-buyers

https://bestlifeonline.com/ebay-shopping-red-flags-news/

Sports memorabilia is a popular and ever-growing collectibles market. The interest in collecting sports cards, game-worn memorabilia, and autographs from famous athletes never seems to die down! With the popularity of such items, there are sure to be some fakes in the mix. It’s important to be on the lookout for forged autographs and fake memorabilia.

But how does one tell the difference between a fake signature versus an authentic one? How can you guarantee that your item is the real deal? Fortunately, there are some tried and true tips that you can follow to authenticate a signature. There are also companies that will authenticate your autographs and your memorabilia, issuing certificates of authenticity that guarantee that your collectibles are genuine – and add to their resale value. Read on as we discuss how to authenticate sports memorabilia!

What Makes a Signature Authentic?

An authentic signature is created by the hand of the person autographing the item. An autograph represents their identity. It should be consistent with that person’s previous signatures. It’s also important that the signature is on the correct document and was done with the signer’s consent.

Factors That Affect Signature Authentication

There are certain factors that can impact the process of authenticating autographs. Some people might have different signatures for different things, or their signature might change over time. This is something to be kept in mind when authenticating an autograph.

Step-by-Step Process of Authentication

How does one go about authenticating an autograph? Here are some steps to follow if you are looking to assess whether a signature is real or a forgery.

Compare the signature to a known example

A great way to determine if a signature is legitimate is to compare it to a known example. Look over a previous document that was autographed by that person and compare the signatures to each other. Examine similarities in style, stroke patterns, and the signature’s overall appearance.

Look for distinctive characteristics

Autographs always have distinctive characteristics that set them apart from others. Examine the individual letters for things such as loops, curves, and angles that the signer uses in their autograph. You can also examine the size and shape of the letters, the flow of the signature, and the amount of pressure applied while writing.

Check for alterations or additions

Signatures that appear to have been changed or added to are not authentic. Examine the signature for signs of tampering or for corrections. Look for eraser marks, whiteouts, or additional writing that was added later. These could indicate a forgery.

Examine the item as a whole

Finally, it’s important to examine the item as a whole to see if there are any other inconsistencies that would raise suspicion that this is not an authentic signature. For example, if the autographed item is an older item, examine the type of writing utensil used for the autograph and determine if it was consistent with that time period.

Advanced Technologies for Authentication

Besides examining the signature with the naked eye, there are some advanced technologies that can be applied when authenticating a signature. These will help you identify stamped signatures and other signs of forgery.

Ultraviolet Light Analysis: This involves shining an ultraviolet light on the signature to detect any discrepancies in the ink that was used. This can help identify if a signature was altered because it can detect if there were two or more different inks used.

Infrared Analysis: This involves using infrared light to examine any variations in the ink used. Similar to ultraviolet light, it can determine whether more than one type of ink was used to create the signature.

Chemical Analysis: Chemical analysis involves testing the ink that was used to find out the composition of it. This can then be compared to samples of known ink that was used in the same time period as the autograph. It can also detect if the ink was added at a later time.

Magnifying Analysis: This involves looking at the signature under a magnifying glass or microscope to look for any discrepancies. It can show you whether a signature has been altered, traced, or copied.

Reputable Companies for Authenticating Sports Memorabilia

If you are looking to get your sports memorabilia authenticated, there are several reputable companies that you can look to as a resource. Read on for a discussion of each company!

Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA)

Founded in 1991, PSA is a trusted company with expertise in authenticating sports memorabilia. They are the largest third-party grading and authentication company in the world, with offices in California, New Jersey, Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Tokyo. You can submit trading cards, photographs, memorabilia, or autographs for authentication (they even offer grading services for Funko Pops!).

PSA grades items on a 10-point scale. Their experts have graded over 40 million collectibles and valued over $1 billion worth of collectibles.

James Spence Authentication (JSA)

Established in 1997, James Spence Authentication is an autograph authentication service for sports memorabilia. They have an autograph exemplar library and a database of around 700,000 files which are used by their authenticators to assess autograph submissions. Their team of experts visit auction houses, attend trade shows, and constantly research to provide the best service possible.

Beckett Authentication Services (BAS)

Established in November of 2016, Beckett Authentication Services (BAS) provides top notch price guides for sports memorabilia, card grading, and autograph authentication. For six years, Card Trade readers have named Beckett as the “Best Grading Service” in the entire world.

The Thriving Market for Sports Memorabilia

Sports memorabilia is a popular collectible market – and it includes everything from sports cards, to memorabilia such as jerseys or game-played balls, to autographed items. With such a high demand for sports memorabilia, there are sure to be some fakes out there. This means that authentication of these prized possessions is very important.

Many grading companies will issue a certificate of authenticity for an item. This is a registration card that comes with a piece of memorabilia. It includes a statement about the item’s authenticity, plus the signature of the company that certified the item. It also has a hologram that is meant to thwart fake certificates from being made.

Having a certificate of authenticity makes the item more valuable! This is especially important if you are looking to sell an item. This certificate can verify to the buyer that what they are purchasing is the real deal.

If you have a genuine interest in sports memorabilia, learning more about it can help you assess yourself whether or not something is legitimate. Get involved in the world of sports memorabilia by attending hobby shows and conventions. There, you can meet with other collectors and dealers, ask questions, and learn from their expertise.

Another great tool is PSA’s “Quick Opinion” tool. If you are looking to bid on a memorabilia item, you may want to get an expert opinion before you bid – and that’s where this tool comes in handy! Simply submit the form and provide a link to the eBay item you are looking to purchase. For as little as $10, they will give you a quick review of the item so that you can have peace of mind before you make a purchase.

FAQs

How do you authenticate a collectible?

The best way to authenticate a collectible item is to send it to an authentication company and request a certificate of authenticity. They have advanced technology and expert teams who will assess your item and issue the certificate.

Where can I get an item authenticated?

Among the top authenticating services for sports memorabilia are Beckett, PSA, and James Spence Authentication.

How much does it cost to get a signature authenticated?

The price depends on the item and on the company you use. Check out the websites of Beckett, PSA, or James Spence for more details on pricing.

Sources

https://artlogo.co/blogs/signature-design/how-to-authenticate-a-signature

https://authena.io/sports-memorabilia-authenticity/

John Babula’s collection of vintage action figures and comic books started in the late 90s. John was inspired by a friend of his who was just starting his collection at the time. It began with Star Wars action figures. “My first purchase was a Star Wars item from Toys R’ Us,” shares John. “It was a scout trooper on a speeder bike. I remember getting that and thinking it looked really cool on my shelf.”

From there, a passion for collecting was born – but it has since evolved significantly. John eventually developed an interest in Spider-Man comics and vintage toys from the 80s, which included Masters of the Universe, Transformers, G.I. Joes, Thundercats, GoBots, and Voltron. Eventually, he sold off his Star Wars collection to fund these new purchases.

When John started his collection, he immediately considered himself to be a collector, but the idea of what being a collector entails has since changed for John. Looking back, he wouldn’t consider himself a true collector at first. “To me, being a collector means that someone is really invested in their genre, buys a lot of items, and has a lot of rare finds.” It wasn’t until COVID hit that John started collecting according to his sense of the term. During the pandemic, he connected with other collectors online, who commented that his collection was one of the best they’ve ever seen. “I started to realize that my collection could be considered one of the best around!” shares John.

What sets John’s collection apart is that many of his items are graded, and they have relatively high grades. He has his action figures graded by AFA (Action Figure Authority), and most of them are graded 80-85 or higher.

John’s collection is also unique for its depth. He considers himself lucky to have access to some of the items he now owns. Very early on in his collecting journey, John encountered someone who lived in California and worked for Mattel. This person had cases and cases of Mattel toys that were still mint in box, and he was selling them very affordably on eBay. John reached out and let this person know which genres he was interested in, and he sold John the items for very cheap prices. John considers that his collection today wouldn’t be so impressive had he not found these items at such low prices.

Most of John’s collection has appreciated in value over the years and is now worth much more than what he originally paid. For example, he bought a Skeletor gift set for about $100. Today, that item is worth around $2,000.

Many of his Masters of the Universe figures were purchased for around $20 each. Today, it’s impossible to find even ungraded items for so low.

John’s favorite piece from his collection is his original Masters of the Universe He-Man action figure. “I never had one as a kid, but I always wanted one,” shares John. As an adult, John now has a sealed and graded version of the action figure on display. “It’s a centerpiece of my collection, and one of my more expensive pieces.”

Overall, John’s collection has between 1,500 and 2,000 pieces. The bulk of his collection is Masters of the Universe figures, of which he owns around 900. John has some other interesting items in his collection, which include a graded Boulder Hill Playset which comes from a series called Mask. This playset has a grade of 80 and is worth between $5,000 and $7,000. John also owns all but 20 vintage G.I. Joe action figures, of which there are about 150 total. In terms of comics, he has the first appearance of Venom and the first appearance of Hobgoblin, both of which are very valuable with their 9.8 grade.

John’s collection is stored in his finished basement. When he purchased his home, he built a room in the basement that is completely covered in slatwall and enables him to add shelves anywhere he wants. The collection has grown over the years and is spilling out into the other areas of the basement. Everything is organized by genre, and the collection continues to grow! “I’m very close to finishing certain lines of action figures. I need 12 more items for Masters of the Universe and 20 more G.I. Joes. I hope to finish up those lines so that I can sit back and admire them.”