Want to become a collector? Then keep reading! Here you’ll know what you can start collecting, how to care for your collectables, how to protect them and so much more! These are essential things to know as a collector to be aware of how to properly handle your collector items and keep them valuable.
There is an endless list of what people can collect. This can range from bottle caps, books, shoes, fast food toys, vintage make-up, ceramic dolls and so on. There are also advantages as a collector, not only do you get to enjoy it but you also get to make money out of it! Depending on what you’re collecting, its price value may differ.
There are two kinds of collectors, one who collects for fun and the other who collects for profit. Either one, these tips can help you out a lot! Check out the list of things you should know as a starting collector down below:
What collection can I start?
If you still haven’t thought of what you’d like to collect, you can start collecting popularly collected small items. These are usually items that are easy to find and affordable. This is also a great idea to test if collecting is the right hobby for you. You wouldn’t want to splurge on an expensive collectible and then not continue your journey as a collector. So start out small.
Here are great items to start collecting:
- Souvenir magnets – This has got to be one of the most common, fun and sentimental things to start collecting. This is a great option to consider since they’re small, abundant and affordable plus each one is connected to a memory.
- Toys – Another common collector’s item is toys. Depending on the kind of toy you’re collecting, there are some you can even invest in since selected toys increase in value over time. This is also a fun item to consider especially if you’re into movie, comic or series characters.
- Stamps – By far the most popular and oldest collectable items are stamps. This also holds an insanely huge variety since countries around the world have different stamps in different timelines. This makes a great starting item since stamps can be quite cheap and fun to collect.
- Coins – Similar to stamps, coin collecting is also quite popular and old. This also has a huge variety and is a great option to consider as a starting collector.
- Shoes – A new addition to the world of collectables is shoes. More specifically sneakers. Various people nowadays collect Nike Jordans, vintage sneakers, limited edition pairs and so on. This is a great option if you’re fond of sneakers but then again as a starting collector, it can be quite pricey.
What are rare items worth money?
Collectible items can be seen as an investment as much as a hobby. And there are certain kinds of collectable items that are either worth so much or so little. So if you’re a collector who is in it for the profit or simply love to have valuable items, here’s a list of valuable collectables to consider:
- Vintage furniture – Before throwing out an old sofa, coffee table, cabinet or any sort of ‘old furniture’ make sure to do a little digging and know more about it like where it’s from, what timeline was it made, who it was made by and what it’s made of. Who knows the old rocking chair you have in your grandmother’s old room could be worth more than your house?
- Coins and notes – Not only are these the most popular and old form of collectible, but it’s also one of the most valuable. Depending on what timeline it was made and where it’s from, coins and notes can value so much more than their worth. This can mean a rare 5-cent coin could be worth thousands of dollars.
- Old china – Another form of vintage collectable is old china. You might notice that old homes fancy displacing and collecting plates, cups, teapots and so on. That’s because these were sophisticated collectable items back in the day that are worth so much today. So if you pass by a garage sale or a surplus, try skimming through old china.
How do I protect my collectables?
A great way to protect your collectables is by insuring them. There are various collectable insurances around so you’ll surely have a vast amount of options. Keeping them insured can save you from financial damage. Most collectable insurance offers coverage of accidental breakage, theft, loss and so on.
To get the perfect insurance for your collectables, it’s best to consult with an insurance advisor. They’ll be able to help you figure out what coverage will best suit your needs. Even if you’re careful, the chances of disasters and accidents are unpredictable so it’s wise to get your valuables protected!
