Anyone can have a great collection ,if they remember not to form an accumulation !!

      The majority of people on this planet do not realize that we are living in one of the most open environments ever available to collectors. This will be known to future generations as, "the marvelous collecting era".

       Multiple, new, media opportunities offer fine antiques ,art and collectibles to those who have an interest .

        How do you as an individual take advantage of this opportunity.Stick with me for a few minutes and we will explore the possibilities.

          If your area of interest has only developed recently, great,  there are many people who handle what you collect, avail yourself of these persons and glean as much knowledge from them as possible.

          I myself have been in the Antiques business for nearly 40 years and know that sharing my knowledge with new collectors is one of the most important jobs I have.Guiding collectors ,even when they are not your customer, is a service,and most dealers freely give this service to the public.

                Visiting shows is paramount , talk to the dealers ,they are fountains of information. Go to auctions ,handle the items that you are interested in and become familiar with them .Visit museums, if possible, that specialize in your area of interest.

                 If you watch , you will learn. Start with the computer, if that is the tool most familiar to you.  Ask questions , read everything that is available concerning your field of collecting. You do not have to buy or bid to learn.

             Register for live auctions (soon to be ending as a service for collectors) and watch , you are not required to participate or bid ,the knowledge is free and available at the touch of a keyboard. 

            Try to specialize your interest , but don't ignore good opportunities, that will present themselves along the way ,as your expand your collecting horizon. Purchase things when you see the chance to make money on them. These extra funds will help you improve your collection , and help you attain your final goal.

             Always buy the best you can afford . Sell as you collect , to upgrade your collection . Liquidity will provide you more capital to pursue better pieces as they become available.

Whether you collect Tiffany , dolls, porcelain, paintings, or pez dispensers.

   BE SELECT , a few good pieces outweigh a slew of middle of the road ,  or just plain bad. If you have a choice to own the most of something, or the best , always choose the best.

Future Museums will want your pieces ,  if you are careful when you collect the things that you love.

If you have found this guide helpful check yes to keep it alive. Thanks Peg