Inside the June 2025 Issue of Kovels Antique Trader

In this issue, we embrace the idea that collectors aren’t just sentimental; they’re full-on time travelers (with storage units, closets, and attics as their portals). Our editor kicks things off by cleaning out a storage space and finding more than just dust bunnies—like memories of her past, her eBay glory days, and at least one questionable ceramic piece from the 1960s.

You’ll meet Mosep, a mask-wearing alien from the original Star Wars cantina scene who fetched over $75K at auction (take that, Greedo). We also shine a spotlight on McClelland Barclay, the illustrator-turned-jewelry-designer-turned-Navy man whose brooches packed as much punch as his propaganda posters.

Our feature on collecting vintage trading cards takes you from tobacco tins to bubblegum packs because who knew that a little cardboard rectangle could be worth more than your car? Whether you're in it for the sports legends or the pop culture pull, this piece proves that nostalgia pays off.

If you’ve ever wanted to see neon signs valued like fine art, we’ve got that too because, apparently, everything glows brighter with provenance. Our auction roundups prove the market is hot, the finds are fresh, and collectors are still willing to pay top dollar for things that plug in and light up.

And don’t miss Wayne Jordan’s Laramie, Wyoming, travelogue, where the antiques are charming, the shops are plentiful, and the history comes with a side of frontier grit. We also preview the upcoming Antique Advertising convention. Yes, it includes an ice cream social, and no, you don’t have to bring your own sprinkles.

In short, this month’s issue is a delicious sundae of nostalgia, knowledge, and a little bit of weird (just the way we like it).

Dig in.