Melanie C. Thomas provides a history lesson on Christmas ornaments, including the trend-setting role the British royal family played during the 19th century.
Articles
Original ‘Star Wars’ screenplay may score $5K in Dec. 5-6 auction
A robust selection of Star Wars movie memorabilia, including Starship designs and an original 1975 'Star Wars' screenplay, from the personal collection of science fiction movie pioneer Colin Cantwell, will lead a Dec. 5-6 sale being offered by Julien's Auctions.
Classic beauties and gems of 19th century jewelry
This article is written by renowned jewelry expert and author, C. Jeanenne Bell, G.G., and is an excerpt from the just-published new edition of Answers to Questions About Old Jewelry, 8th Ed. One of my favorite sections in the article appears near the beginning, where Bell states: “The jewelry of the 1860s and ’70s is...
Digging for Information: 10 things to consider before collecting fine minerals
Fine mineral collector Bryan Swoboda offers up an intriguing examination of key factors to consider before becoming a collector of fine minerals, in this Antique Trader special feature.
De-Mystifying American Fire Marks: Insurance company plaques boost confidence
Did you know at one point in the mid-19th century there were more than 40,000 Fire Association fire marks in Philadelphia? That's just one fascinating fact about fire marks you'll walk away with upon reviewing this fifth of sixth installments in the "De-Mystifying Fire Marks" series.
Early expo postcards may generate bidding battles Oct. 25-26
Early souvenir postcards, including World's Fair pocstcards and those featuring iconic athletes, are heading to market during Oct. 25-26 auction offered by Morphy Auctions.
Striking a nostalgic chord with vintage cowboy guitars
At a time when cowboys were the heroes of 1930s radio programs and later westerns on television, children and adults alike dreamed of the charms of the idolized cowboy life, represented by many things, including cowboy guitars.
Five things you might not know about Native American lithic artifacts
Did you know not all Native American stone tools with a point are arrowheads? Scott Antique Markets’ Jessica Munday-McGee explains what to look for with lithic artifacts.
Eclectic Currents: Collectibles hobby enjoying a resurgence of new buyers
In the Sept. 3, 2014 cover story, Eric Bradley reveals the hottest collecting trends for 2015 in his newest edition of Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide.
Soldier rescues rag doll from abandoned German school
Enjoy an endearing story about the life of a humble German rag doll, as told by Kathy Gregg, administrator of the Spencer Doll and Toy Museum in Spencer, North Carolina.