Collectibles are objects from popular culture that people consider rare, unusual, or fun to own. A collectible’s commercial origin separates it from fine arts objects, such as paintings, sculptures, and antiques, which also attract collectors. Some people acquire collectibles as investments, but most collectors gather the objects because of the fascination or pleasure they provide.
The number and variety of collectibles are limitless. Items that some people consider junk may be prized by others. Baseball cards and comic books rank among the most familiar items sought by collectors. Some collectors specialize in toys and puzzles, items connected with a motion-picture star, a movie, a historical period, or varieties of one specific object, such as radios, teddy bears, or cookie jars. Some people collect unusual items, such as barbed wire or candle molds.
Collectors can obtain collectibles from several sources. They can buy objects from dealers, buy or trade with other collectors, or bid for items at auction. They may visit garage sales and flea markets, hoping to discover a prized item. They may also purchase collectibles over the Internet, either at online auctions or websites.
Some collectible objects can be purchased at small cost, while highly desired items may sell for thousands of dollars. The key to an item’s value centers on its rarity, its condition, and how much it is prized by a collector. The rarer the item, the greater its worth. Collectors try to find objects in good condition. If an item is extremely rare, it may sell for a high figure even if it is in relatively poor condition.
Beginning collectors should learn as much as possible about the field that interests them before spending much money. Books, magazines, auctions, catalogs, and Internet websites can provide valuable information. Often, dealers and more experienced collectors will share their knowledge with beginners. New collectors should attend gallery and museum exhibits and visit museums devoted to a particular collectible. An informed collector can better determine if an item is fairly priced and whether or not the article is authentic or as valuable as the seller claims.
See also Hobby .
