Surprisingly inexpensive, with the potential for being a very sound investment value. Miniature original or limited edition art work. Can also be known as SFA (small format art). Miniatures, including ACEO - ATC * Usually purchased direct from the artist who have such fun creating such tiny works. * Usually accompanied with a COA (certificate of authenticity), so you can sell-on with confidence. Miniature art can be used, framed and displayed in typical dollhouse or roombox displays. (See 'paintings' under dolls & bears, miniatures, contemporary, artists offerings.) Did you know one miniature sold for 1.3 million in 2003?

But even more exciting is the new phenomenon of collecting the 'miniature' artworks ACEOs (Art Card Editions and Originals), also known as Art Trading Cards. ATCs are the 'traded' version of the same and came into vogue in the mid 1990s with thousands world-wide participating.

Each is 2.5x3.5" This is the important constraint with these artworks that make them so collectible. Artists range from beginners to well known artists and illustrators, using all manner of mediums. The collectibility is in the size, as these are the same size as trading cards, and will fit easily into albums and other supplies usually used for sports, etc cards. Frames this size are easily obtained, as well as magnetic pockets. They can be put into books, and mass displayed at home or work. It is totally addictive - you can collect by theme or artist, for instance.

Search 'ACEO' under art, also SFA.