Antique Trader Blog - Antiques, Atlantique City, Antiques Show, Antique Trader, Collectibles

The end is near ...

Karen — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:06:41 GMT

.. the end of the Antique Trader October Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes, that is.

You have until Midnight Oct. 31 to enter for your chance to win Woodstock: Peace, Music & Memories.

Make the most of the time that's left: come back and enter once each day! Visit http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com (or click on the banner above) and fill out the entry form for your chance to win the October Antique Trader sweepstakes.

Then, in November, come back and enter the Antique Trader sweepstakes for your chance to win Todd L. Shulman's Napa County from the Postcard History Series, as well as the companion Napa County postcards from Arcadia Publishing.(www.arcadiapublishing.com).

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Antique Trader covers: news, art or ... ?

Karen — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:34:57 GMT

Last week's issue (sorry, I neglected to post it but still feel compelled to do so).

Beautiful and suspenseful, isn't it?

And here's the newest issue.

For the cover story, Eric Bradley did an exclusive interview with KB Toys co-founder Donald Kaufman about his collecting passion and why he's selling every last piece of his amazing antique transportation toy collection.

As always, feel free to let us know what you think. Feel free to also share what you would like to see more (or less) of in Antique Trader.

— Posted by Karen

A little fall cleaning at Antique Trader ...

Karen — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 01:52:02 GMT

You’ll notice a few changes to your Antique Trader this week. Like every good dealer often does to their shop or booth, every once in a while we too like to take a step back and examine whether things could be better displayed.

The cover shows the most changes. Our covers will now highlight our main feature article. The right hand column on the front will sport a menu of items inside that week’s publication.

Speaking of inside, you’ll see easier to read feature headers at the top of select pages. Articles will have more informational boxes to help you quickly find additional information about events or auctions or where to turn to on the Internet for more information.

We will continue to provide you with complete coverage in the pages of Antique Trader. However, we will take advantage of the limitless space that can only be found on the Internet to provide you with even more at www.antiquetrader.com.

We’d love to hear what you think about the new look. Hopefully you’ll see the changes are modest and are intended to make the print edition easier to read. Send your comments to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or in care of Antique Trader, 700 E. State St. Iola, WI 54945.

Eric Bradley
Editor

Two corrections of note:

A shop featured in the Sept. 9 issue was incorrectly identified in a photo caption. The Roseville, Calif., shop is called The Tattered House.

A Stueben cire purdue plaque offered in a June 19-20 James D. Julia, Inc. auction and featured in the Aug. 19 issue was incorrectly identified. The featured plaque did not sell. The $9,200 sale price should have been attributed to a 1938 Frederick Carder cire perdue figure seen here.

F+W Media cancels March Atlantique City

Karen — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:31:18 GMT

IOLA, Wis. – Citing the opportunity to build its online collectors marketplace and launch a Midwest antiques event, F+W Media announced Aug. 19 the cancellation of its annual Atlantique City Antiques & Collectibles Show scheduled for March 27-28, 2010.

“Given the uncertainty surrounding the current economic environment, we believe it’s in our best interest not to produce the Atlantique City event next year and to notify the antiques and collectible community of our decision now,” said David Blansfield, President, F+W Media. “The resources within our Antiques & Collectibles team will instead focus on new opportunities within our changing marketplace, and we’ll engage with the community about these new initiatives immediately.”

All dealers who signed up in advance for Atlantique City will receive a full and complete refund of their deposit monies as soon as possible. Any questions regarding deposits should be addressed to Karen Thulien, Event Coordinator. She can be reached via e-mail at karen.thulien@fwmedia.com.

“There are immediate opportunities for us to produce events in the Midwest, closer to our core communities, as well as to continue to develop Collect.com and our Antiques & Collectibles Community online,” Blansfield added. “Our focus will shift to organically growing these new businesses.”

Key initiatives include:

• The launch of an antiques and collectibles show co-located at the Iola Old Car Show and Swap Meet, July 8-11, 2010. The Iola Old Car Show and Swap Meet regularly attracts nearly 100,000 attendees annually.

• Expanding Collect.com as a worldwide collectors’ marketplace including its comprehensive prices and research database powered by the Warman’s series price guides.

• Developing Collect.com Auctions as the premier source of sports, antiques, collectibles, entertainment and music memorabilia online auctions.

• Expanding Antique Trader magazine and AntiqueTrader.com through regional reports and market analysis while providing the latest prices and auction news.

Atlantique City, sponsored by Antique Trader magazine, was started in 1986 and quickly grew as one of the nation’s most diverse and largest indoor antiques and collectibles shows. Hundreds of the nation’s top dealers exhibited toys, advertising, fine porcelain, glass and lighting, jewelry and various collectibles.

Krause Publications purchased the show from founder Norman Schaut in 2001. The shows consistently offered as much in entertainment value as in buying and selling opportunities. Special features have included the Kennedy Collection, Miss America and Treasures from the Titanic.

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Antique Trader 09-09-09

Karen — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 21:41:57 GMT

That's some cover date, isn't it?

Here's a look at our newest cover:

Whaddya think?

And more recent antiques-related headlines:

Karen — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:32:05 GMT

On Pawn Stars it’s all business (my favorite!)

Regional Roundup: East

NY State malls helping shoppers justify purchases

French doll shatters world auction record (still hot news)

Collector selling Archie #1 as marriage proposal looms - Tom Michael analyzes Archie through the years ... fascinating, in-depth analysis of the development of "The Mirth of a Nation."

AT Inbox: Reader seeks help identifying father's jardiniere

Ask Antique Trader: Driftwood furniture first popular in the ’40s

To pawn or not to pawn

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Antique headline shortcuts anyone?

Karen — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 22:24:44 GMT

Antiques trade mourns icon’s passing

Springfield Antiques Show turns great finds

Dealers show rare and unusual items at Nashville glass show

Antique show fund raiser earns nearly $4,000 for animal shelter- (I thought this was a great idea!)

All Saints Show highly praised by dealers

Baltimore Summer Show: Designed to dazzle

Guyette & Schmidt, Inc. summer decoy auction grosses $1.3 million

Hal Hunt to auction the contents of famous Alabama antebellum home Sept. 5

Historic rifle from the Battle of Little Big Horn offered at Kaminski’s August auction

Seldom-seen antique maps, atlases offered in Old World Auctions’ online sale

Pawn Stars makes an impression

Karen — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 22:01:04 GMT

We had a great time talking with Rick Harrison of HISTORY's Pawn Stars last week. He gave us a new-found respect for the pawn business. Here's part I of our interview with one of the co-owners of the Gold & Silver Pawn shop.

To pawn or not to pawn ...

Karen — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:35:19 GMT

Before the credit card explosion in the 1950s, pawnshops were a neighborhood’s answer to easy credit with few questions. Pawnshops and pawn brokering have been around for thousands of years and it was an important aspect of the economic foundations of Chinese, Ancient Greek and Roman Empires.

So if pawn broking has been around so long, why is HISTORY’s new show Pawn Stars so popular?

Like the PBS smash hit Antiques Roadshow, average folks haul their treasures or investments to the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in an effort to find their value and sell them at a respectable price. A pawn transaction gives the seller an cash advance on the value of their antique and sets a time limit on when they must pay it back, usually at a double digit interest rate. If the seller doesn’t return the pawnshop legally claims ownership and may sell the item at whatever market price the new owner may set. The shop owner’s goal is to accurately describe the item and get the seller to agree on a sale price that is fair but also leaves room for him to make a profit.

Maybe it’s the rare chance to be a fly on the wall as a sale price is haggled back and forth. This is my favorite part. I have always believed that when you’re buying an antique, the first person that offers a price loses something in the negotiation. This belief is reinforced every time I watch this show. It’s fascinating to watch sellers learn the history behind their item and quickly realize factors such as condition, scarcity and market conditions also influence the value of an antique.

Another reason the show is popular has to be because of its timing. The problems pulling down our economy have touched off a new era of frugality and resourcefulness. People want to tap the cash value in their antiques and collectibles. What could be more entertaining than watching someone negotiate a sale?

Although it is entertaining for a spectator to watch, it’s important to remember a few caveats when selling antiques and collectibles through pawnshops:

• Research the value range of your antiques before you sell. I use the words “value range” because sellers should know enough about the market conditions to negotiate a sale price based on current demand, scarcity and condition.

• Not every pawnshop will accept antiques or collectibles. What makes Rick Harrison’s Las Vegas pawn shop so unique is that he has experience in appraising art and antiques and has built a customer base for that merchandise. Call ahead to see if your local pawnshop accepts such items.

• Leave some room for the pawnbroker to make a profit in the transaction. After all, it’s still a business transaction and only the successful deals leave room on both sides to make a profit.

Eric Bradley
Editor

CLICK HERE to read a partial excerpt from the exclusive interview Antique Trader had with Rick Harrison, co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawnshop.

P.S. Elsewhere in this week’s issue, you will find an ad for the Butter Pat Patter Association. The association has provided three Buffalo Pottery butter pats as prizes for three lucky winners of the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt for August and September. The Art Deco-inspired designs are valued at $25 each. To enter, visit www.antiquetrader.com/sweepstakes.

New Antique Trader is in the mail

Karen — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:59:31 GMT

Here's a peek at the cover:

Click on the cover to visit www.antiquetrader.com.

What do you think of it?

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

Have you entered the Treasure Hunt this month

Karen — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 18:20:00 GMT

The end of July is almost here, meaning the end of the July Antique Trader sweepstakes.

In case you missed it, the July Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes is featuring Dames, Dolls & Delinquents and the Antique Trader® Collectible Paperback Price Guide as prizes.

AND, in addition to those books, we're giving away some beautiful blank note cards (graciously provided by Heritage Auction Galleries) that feature illustration art from the Charles Martignette collection.

Make sure you visit http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com today and enter for your chance to win ... you'll be glad you did!

If you haven't already done so, you want to sign up on the Antique Trader home page (http://www.antiquetrader.com) for the free e-newsletters so you get fresh news and notifications delivered right to your in-box ... including when we launch new sweepstakes and contests.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.

Here they are: more article links

Karen — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:33:57 GMT

Newest articles:

Pixie-flair: Holt-Howard’s Pixieware ‘fad’ survives 50 years

Served up fresh: splendid salmon labels ... check these out! They are truly marketing ART for can-side display. Beautiful & colorful!

Collecting without cash - we'd love to hear your swap stories - successful or not. What works? What doesn't?

Can labels brought art to the aisles

Ask Antique Trader: Gargoyle hitching post finials are unusual

Milk’s letters making big news - Harvey Milk, that is ...

Antiques & Collectibles National Association announces New Orleans convention dates for 2010

Let us know what you like - and what you don't!

You can post a reply here on the blog or e-mail us: eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or karen.knapstein@fwmedia.com.

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads HERE.
• Find us on Twitter HERE.

And off it goes! Antique Trader 7/22/09

Karen — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 22:15:06 GMT

The newest edition of Antique Trader just headed off to the printer.

This week's cover features: those adorable Holt-Howard collectibles and vintage canning labels.

Oh, by the way: we change the cover to say "Pixie-flair" ...

What do you think of it?

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

The newest issue of Antique Trader is in the mail

Karen — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:47:21 GMT

Here's a look at the cover:

What do you think of it?

Any press is good press, right?

Karen — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:44:16 GMT

Can you remember a week where antiques and collectibles dominated the headlines as they did the week of June 21-27?

Television, newspapers, blogs and the Internet were buzzing about major news stories that involved the value – or perceived value – of antiques and collectibles. First, Michael Jackson’s untimely death took his fan base and the rest of the world by surprise. Talk quickly changed from what killed the King of Pop to what will become of his estate – including his three children and millions of dollars worth of investments he made in antiques and collectibles. Jackson was a well-known collector and accumulator of fine antiques and show biz memorabilia. Scenes of Jackson practically emptying a Las Vegas antiques shop in a seven-figure shopping spree was rehashed in news reports following his death. The Associated Press reported Jackson’s estate owns about $20 million worth of antiques, old cars and “other property.”

Does even the most experienced dealer or collector even realize what $20 million worth of antiques and vintage cars would look like? Imagine your favorite mega-antiques show and estimate the retail value of everything on the floor. You would have to include part of the building itself to reach $20 million.

Jackson liked owning unusual things – but he also made some shrewd investments such as the catalog of songs by The Beatles, among others, which is purportedly worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Time will tell if his fans are just as shrewd after scouring the Web in the days after his death to buy all manner of Jackson collectibles.

The second big story was dramatically smaller in dollars compared to Jackson’s estate, but it may create a comfy nest egg for its owner. Antiques Roadshow stopped in Raleigh, N.C., on June 27 as part of its 2009 taping season.

Appraiser James Callahan noticed something worthy of more attention in one woman’s collection of Chinese jade carvings. He put the collection’s value at about $1.07 million, a record discovery in the 13-year history of the American version of the British TV hit. The owner’s father purchased the collection during the 1930s and ‘40s while stationed by the military in China. Taylor expected the set to be worth about $10,000. The collection includes four pieces of Chinese jade and celadon from the Chien Lung Dynasty (1736-1795). Special marks on the bottom of a large bowl indicate it was carved for an emperor.

Antiques Roadshow appraisers review about 18,000 items at each stop. Show producers told media outlets that about 34,000 people applied for tickets to the taping but only 6,400 were picked. The $1.07 million appraisal will be shown on Jan. 4 as part of a new season of Antiques Roadshow.

If there truly is no such thing as bad press, let’s hope the week’s events – both fortunate and unfortunate – encourages a new generation to look at antiques and collectibles in a different light.

Eric Bradley
Editor

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Regional collectors club conventions

Karen — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 22:01:10 GMT

American Cut Glass Association Annual Convention to be in Vienna, Va.

The American Cut Glass Association will hold its ACGA Annual Convention on July 24-26, 2009, at the Sheraton Premiere at Tysons Corner Hotel, in Vienna, Va.

The convention gives ACGA members a great opportunity to learn about glass and extra time for sight-seeing in the area. There will be a spectacular display of some of the world’s most elegant cut glass, plus lectures by leaders in cut glass and related fields.

For additional information on joining the American Cut Glass Association or about the Annual Convention, visit www.cutglass.org.

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Fenton Glass Collectors to meet in August for convention

The 19th Annual Convention of the National Fenton Glass Society will be held on Aug. 1-3, 2009, in Marietta, Ohio.

The convention headquarters will be the Comfort Inn. Glass displays and seminars are open to the public. Members and their guests will enjoy a dinner cruise aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, participate in Glass ID, attend the NFGS annual meeting, play Fenton bingo, and enjoy the banquet followed by a whimsey auction.

For more information on the NFGS convention or the National Fenton Glass Society, visit www.fentonglasssociety.org.

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Carriage Association of America to hold 2009 conference in Leesburg, Va.

The Carriage Association of America will hold its 2009 CAA Conference on June 17-20, 2009, at the Morven Park Equestrian Center in Leesburg, Va.

For additional information on The Carriage Association of America or the upcoming 2009 conference, visit www.caaonline.com.

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Sewing Machine Collectors to meet in Charlotte in 2009

The International Sewing Machine Collectors’ Society will hold their annual convention in Charlotte, N.C., on Oct. 17-18, 2009.

The convention will include a sewing machine auction and row upon row of sales tables, plus tours and other activities.

For additional information visit www.ismacs.net/events.html or e-mail Graham Forsdyke at graham@ismacs.u-net.com.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

I don't think you'll want to miss these either

Karen — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 22:05:25 GMT

Lots of antique auction news ...

Rare ark form Hanukkah lamp sells for $314,000 in Skinner's Fine Judaica Auction

Peter the Great portrait steals the show at St. Charles Gallery sale

Impressive lifetime collections hit the block, June 27

Entertainment icons live on at Julien’s auction - Marilyn Monroe & Elvis Presley: what's not to love ...

Anglo-Portuguese chest on stand gathers $74,150 at Weschler sale

Historic Enchanted Village holiday display to be auctioned

James D. Julia’s June sale offers their finest selection to date

Swann Galleries’ June 11 auction offers large selection of atlases, maps, and works on natural history

First edition Harry Potter trove highlights June Rare Books Auction in Dallas

Vast array of fine antiques offered at Susanin's, June 13

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More exciting news: Antique Trader broke 600 followers on Twitter today! Follow us at http://twitter.com/antiquetrader and find out what's going on with us first-hand.

Antique article shortcuts

Karen — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 21:59:42 GMT

Shortcuts can be a good thing ...

The Lalique mystique still captivates collectors

Nothing to sneeze at: Shakers add spice to life

Ask Antique Trader: Gent’s stand allowed shaving in style

Postcards tell of disaster in Texas City

Burning stones: Mining history tells a dark tale

(on a personal note - I think the Texas City disaster postcards and the burning stones articles are my favorites for the week)

When room runs out for the collection, the collection gets another room

(isn't it every collector's fantasy to have a totally dedicated space for their collection?)

Antique Trader, June 17, 2009 issue

Karen — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 19:50:59 GMT

Here's a peek at the cover of the newest issue of Antique Trader:

What do you think?

Shortcuts to antiques features

Karen — Tue, 26 May 2009 15:20:47 GMT

I hope you all had a wonderful Memorial Day holiday weekend. I took my family to my hometown Memorial Day parade and ceremony. I don't know about you all, but I can't listen to Taps without tearing up ...

Anyway, I hope you'll all check out some of our latest features:

The jewel of Texas Hill Country – Fredericksburg

Collecting vintage cameras: See what develops

Botero, ‘smart, quirky and just outside the norm,’ won acclaim for being whimsical

Ask Antique Trader: Pretty pickle caster

Me and Hot Wheels – How it all began

Baubles, bangles and jewels of Southern belles, Northern beauties

Do you know Ohr and Overbeck?

Woodworking tools evoke images of lost era

Newest issue of Antique Trader

Karen — Fri, 22 May 2009 20:13:22 GMT

Have a look at the newest Antique Trader cover (it's in the mail!) ...

What do you think? Fitting for Memorial Day, isn't it?

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Question of the Week: Brimfield anyone?

Karen — Wed, 20 May 2009 22:50:39 GMT

This week, Antique Trader would like to know:

“Did you attend the antique shows in Brimfield during the middle of May? What were your impressions of the state of the market there?”

Would you like to share your experiences at Brimfield - either buying or selling? We'd love to hear from you!

Post a reply here on the blog, in the Antique Trader message boards, or you can e-mail us your comments at sandra.sparks@fwmedia.com or mail comments to Antique Trader Inbox, 700 E State St, Iola, WI 54945.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

In case you haven't seen it

Karen — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:47:51 GMT

Last week we had features on militaria, transferware, and Disneyana (did you know it all started with Mickey?) ...

Here's a peek at the cover for all of you who are not subscribers and haven't seen it yet:

(We're having a bit of trouble with the blog, but we'll muddle through until it's fixed properly ... please bear with us ...)

Here are some of last week's features:

World War II collectibles: Medals lead in popularity

Transferware china: Blue Willow is just the beginning

In the beginning there was Mickey – the rest is history

Remembering Medal of Honor heroes

What’s cooking? Nostalgia and memories drive popularity of kitchen collectibles

Requiem for a restaurant: Pierce’s, since 1894

AntiqueTrader.com article links

Karen — Fri, 01 May 2009 21:09:25 GMT

Hello shortcut lovers!

Here are quick links to some of this week's Antique Trader articles:

Former owner gets carried away with old mill

From accident to innovation: Celebrating the craftsmanship and artistry of ancient Roman glass

Ask Antique Trader: Seldom-seen Cincinnati dog table is valuable Victorian piece

The mischief makers (naughty children on postcards)

Once upon a time: The history of Little Golden Books®

Sew there! Buttons can be a window on history

Collecting classic cookbooks: Repasts from the past

Rich Penn auction prices are rock solid at Spring Spectacular in Stone Mountain, Ga.

Rare Seminole shoulder sash is top lot in Cowan’s auction

Seven major Crowell decoys in Copley’s July 15-16 sale

Robin Starr named director pro tem of Skinner’s fine paintings department

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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• Visit the Antique Trader Web site HERE. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Brand new issue of Antique Trader headed to press

Karen — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:55:44 GMT

Another great issue of Antique Trader that we're really excited about.

Here's a peek:

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• If you really like what you see, get your own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.
>

• Learn more about Antique Trader HERE.
• Reference books available about your favorite collectibles HERE
>• Antique Trader message boards HERE.
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your free online ads HERE.

Weekend do-over?

Karen — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 13:23:04 GMT

Is it possible to request a do-over for the weekend? I think I could have done better.

I really wanted to get out and visit one of the "local" flea markets (local for me is within 100 miles), but the weather and my schedule didn't co-operate.

How far will you travel to attend a one-day show or flea market - or auction, for that matter - as a buyer, browser or spectator?

If I travel any great distance, I certainly want to make the trip worth my while and soak it ALL in ...

How about you?

— Posted by Karen

Shortcuts to antiques and collectibles features

Karen — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 17:14:44 GMT

Do you have little patience for looking for feature stories?

I have a treat for you: here are some quick links to Antique Trader feature articles right here on the Antique Trader blog!

Pardon me, but do you have the time? (Collecting vintage watches)

PEZ: 92 years and counting

Charlie Chan, international man of mystery

The game is afoot! Who is Arthur Conan Doyle?

Take these postcards with a grain of salt

How about a little history? The Quad Cities’ quirks

Modern art movements relegated the queen’s paintings to the attic

Ask Antique Trader: How to fix an old cane seat

Exploring the whalers’ art: Scrimshaw enthusiasts from around the world gather in Massachusetts

As always, feel free to contact us and let us know what you think and what you would like to see more (or less) of!

One of my personal favorites in this week's issue is the Charlie Chan feature. (I never knew he was based on a real person.) It took me back to watching the Saturday afternoon movies on TV as a kid (and my Mom saying "It's nice out! Go play outside!" ... I think so she could watch it in peace by herself ...)

I also enjoyed this week's Art Markets column. It was nice to get a glimpse of Queen Victoria the woman as opposed to Queen Victoria the monarch.

Sandy's favorite article in this issue is "Who is Arthur Conan Doyle?" She said once she was too old for the Hardy Boys, she turned to Arthur Conan Doyle ...

— Posted by Karen

Latest issue of Antique Trader

Karen — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:39:54 GMT

Here's a sneak peek at the cover of this week's Antique Trader:

As you can see, this week's cover features are PEZ (which I had no idea was soooo old) and vintage watches

— Posted by Karen

Observations from Atlantique City

Karen — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 21:50:37 GMT

What was hot at AC?

According to Eric Bradley:

As for hot selling merchandise - toy dealers did well all across the board. Folks were choosy and selective, trying to buy the best toys they could afford for under $100.

Vintage sports memorabilia was the surprise growth market. We have five dealers who carry such items and all five reported fabulous shows. But the dealers sold across eclectic lines: baseball, bowling, football, cricket, trophies, curling and skiing. I suspect it was because most individual items were each priced below $400.

Several dealers reported "best ever" sales in estate jewelry, fine art and American pottery. High-quality costume jewelry ($500-$1,000) was again an extremely popular segment. One Florida dealer reported $40,000 in sales of complete sets of dinner services in fine china.

Ephemera dealers reported great sales of postcards, vintage travel posters, banners and advertising memorabilia. A dealer in comic books reported high sales and a seller of vintage and antique maps (priced $100-$500) said he was blown away at his sales volume.

Even our junk dealers reported fantastic sales as dealers across New Jersey sought fresh merchandise to spruce up their inventory before the summer tourist season starts.

Worst markets: folk art, furniture, American Brilliant cut glass, European porcelain, Tiffany lamps and vintage clothing. And if dealers weren't willing to haggle they had no sales.

How was Atlantique City for you?

Karen — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 21:48:17 GMT

Eric Bradley had this good news about Atlantique City:

The show was indeed a success despite the economic climate and the difficult operations needs. The sentiment was universal - even among dealers who didn't sell a thing. Dealers were overwhelmingly impressed with the type of buyers that came through the gate as well as the way the staff dressed the event, got them in and out and solved their problems on the floor. I talked to three dealers who skipped the show but were shopping who said they made a HUGE mistake not being there. Another dealer called on Sunday and apologized for canceling.

Most of all - The conversation among customers turned from "Is this your last show?" to "Where is the contract and when are you setting more details?" Despite the shaky economy, last weekend's show gave us a solid starting block for our next show March 27-28, 2010.

So how was Atlantique City for you?

Atlantique City

Karen — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:56:25 GMT

The staff who attended the Atlantique City show this past weekend are trickling back into the office today.

I'm anxious to get their impressions of the show.

What are your impressions?

Get your name out there!

Karen — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:56:22 GMT

Antique Trader Announces Production of 1st Annual Industry Directory

Free advertising opportunity offered in the Antique Trader 1st Annual Antiques and Collectibles Industry Directory

IOLA, Wis.—Antique Trader, the national antiques publication delivering news, commentary, and advertising for the antiques market, has announced it will produce a stand-alone Antiques and Collectibles Industry Directory in 2009, which will be distributed to more than 40,000 Antique Trader subscribers free of charge.

Those who have an antiques or antiques-related business are encouraged to have their business included in this national directory. This is a unique opportunity for industry participants to reach an interested, active collecting audience at little or no cost. Inclusion in the directory is free of charge.

The Antique Trader staff is currently gathering information from antiques and collectibles (and related) businesses for inclusion in this national directory. Hundreds of businesses are expected to be listed, along with their contact information, Web site, e-mail address, and more in this valuable collector’s resource.

Businesses will also be listed by category, of which they will have many to choose from, such as “Auctioneers,” “Postcards,” and “Toys,” to name a few; directory users will know what each company has to offer and how to contact them. Each business will be able to choose three free categories for their company listing.

Don’t miss your free opportunity to be listed in this product and supplier directory dedicated solely to antiques and collectibles. Information must be received by June 22, 2009, to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

Additional options, such as color listings, full-color logo inclusion, and company descriptions are available to make your business stand out among the rest.

Those who would like to be listed in the 1st Annual Antiques and Collectibles Industry Directory should e-mail Jessica Mundt (Jessica.Mundt@fwmedia.com), Ryan Solberg (Ryan.Solberg@fwmedia.com), or Trevor Lauber (Trevor.Lauber@fwmedia.com) at F+W Media.

Or, for more information, call 1-800-726-9966 to speak with one of the representatives listed above, or CLICK HERE to download the submission form for the directory.

Once you have downloaded the submission form, print it out, fill out all the information, and send it back to Antique Trader. Mail to Antiques & Collectibles Directory, 700 E State St., Iola, WI 54990-0001, or fax to 715-445-4087.

About Antique Trader
Antique Trader, a newspaper published in Iola, Wis., has served the antiques and collectibles community since 1957. Founded by Babka Publishing Co., later to become the flagship of Krause Publications’ Antiques division, Antique Trader built its reputation as the premier print vehicle for the buying and selling of antiques nationwide. Its loyal following includes antique dealers, antique show promoters, shop and mall operators, and collectors, some of whom have subscribed to the paper since its inception.

About Krause Publications
Krause Publications, based in Iola, Wis., is the world's largest publisher of leisure-time periodicals and books on collectibles, sewing and quilting, hunting, and fishing. Chet Krause, a long-time collector of coins, published the first issue of Numismatic News on Oct. 13, 1952, with nearly 1,000 readers. Today, Krause Publications, owned by F+W Publications, offers over 40 periodicals, 10 hobby shows, 750 reference and how-to books, and web properties. F+W Media, an ABRY Partners, LLC company, also operates book clubs, conferences, trade shows, interactive media and education programs.

CLICK HERE to download the Antiques & Collectibles Industry Directory form (ANT_IndForm09.pdf 231.11 KB)

Expect the unusual at Atlantique City!

Karen — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 17:22:51 GMT

Dealers bringing amazing finds to New Jersey's greatest event

Dealers have been searching all winter long to provide collectors, decorators and curiosity seekers a new cure for cabin fever.

Atlantique City, New Jersey's largest indoor antiques & collectibles event, will return to the Atlantic City Convention Center March 28-29, 2009. The annual event, a 23-year fixture on the Northeast's antiques scene, will showcase hundreds of exhibitors of art, furniture, jewelry and vintage fashion, pottery, porcelain, glass, dolls, toys, silver and more.

Thousands of buyers flock to Atlantique City to view the wide range of antiques and collectibles exhibited by dealers from across the United States, Canada, France and the United Kingdom. "You see things at an antiques show that you don't see anywhere else," Show Promoter Eric Bradley said. "Our dealers have searched all winter long and they bring their most amazing discoveries to Atlantique City. Most of our dealers do not sell online so March is the only chance this year to experience their great finds."

CLICK HERE for More Information and to Purchase Your Tickets!

CLICK HERE to download a free listing of the Atlantique City dealers (38.44 KB PDF)

ACNA headed to the Big Easy

Karen — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:41:44 GMT

The Antiques & Collectibles National Association is headed to New Orleans in January 2010 for their first national convention and trade show since 2006.

Association members and non-members are welcome. Early registration is encouraged since discounts are given prior to June 1, 2009.

They've chosen a fantastic theme: "Help Your Future – Buy Your Past."

That says it all, doesn't it?

And they have an exciting lineup planned:

Scheduled speakers and topics for the classes include Kyle Husfloen, keynote address; Fred and Gail Taylor – Antique Furniture; Randy and Debbie Coe – Glass; DiAnna Tindell – Art Restoration; Connie Swaim – Recognizing Fakes; Barbara Mauzy – Kitchenware and Beth Walker – Silver.

For more information about the ACNA, visit their Web site at http://www.acna.us/index.php

Chicago Antique Market schedule

Karen — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:36:57 GMT

Visited their site this morning. Looks fabulous! Another way to enjoy the weekends during the summer:

Chicago Antique Market schedule:

Show dates:
Saturdays & Sundays:
Opening weekend: May 23-24, 2009 Memorial Day
June 27-28, 2009
July 25-26, 2009
August 29-30, 2009
September 26-27, 2009

Show hours: Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Sundays 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: $10; students $5; children free.

For more information: http://www.chicagoantiquemarket.com

Five days of quality vintage bling in Vegas

Karen — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:08:04 GMT

Bally's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is the new site of The Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, which will be held May 28-June 1, 2009. More than 350 exhibitors, comprised of renowned dealers in the antique jewelry and watch industry, will be showing their wares.

They will exhibit rare and unusual historical antique and vintage pieces, gemstones, and antique watches from famous brands including Cartier, Rolex, Tiffany, Patek Philippe and more.

The Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch show is an annual event open only to the trade; a valid ID and business card is necessary for entry. Show hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. May 28-May 31, and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Monday, June 1. A one-time admission of $15 is valid for all five days of the show.

For more information visit www.dmgantiqueshows.com.

If you're going, drop us a line and give us your impressions. We'd love to hear from you!

More antique features

Karen — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 21:32:33 GMT

Warman’s features perfume containers

The Russian connection: Fabergé silver at M.S. Rau Antiques

Khokhloma: Russian folk art

Scents and sensibility: Collecting perfume bottles

Ask Antique Trader: Collapsible cup and holder could be worth $100

So many shows ...

Karen — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:47:25 GMT

... and so few pages.

Here are some new show previews for your perusal:

Antiques street fair is the place to discover treasures

Black cloth doll exhibit to be featured at California Country Antique Show

New train service makes getting to Atlantique City easier

Ocean Grove, N.J., Postcards, Books & Paper Show

59th Oregon, Ill., Antique Show

Postcard and paper show has new look, new manager

Auction calendar update

Karen — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:41:18 GMT

The AntiqueTrader.com online Auction Calendar has been updated with an index at the top of the page. Click on the state you want to see to go directly to those listings. Use your back button to go back to the top of the page.

To get your auction listed in the Antique Trader calendar (both in the magazine and onine), e-mail showscalendar@krause.com.

Please provide all the relevant information: Auction date, time, auction location, contact information (e-mail, Web site, telephone number).

If you would like it listed online only, send it to me at karen.knapstein@fwmedia.com.

Does the index make the calendars much easier to use? Or was it OK without it?

FREE Appraisals at Atlantique City

Karen — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:48:09 GMT

Buyers at the 2009 Atlantique City show will have access to four expert appraisers March 28-29, 2009 at the Atlantic City Convention Center. Every buyer is eligible for a free appraisal with additional appraisals (as time allows) available at $10 each. Appraisals are prohibited on items purchased at the show.

This year’s spectacular line up of experts includes:

Paula Fox of Bensalem, Pa. specializes in estate jewelry and gems. She will be the gemologist and appraiser at the show. Fox is vice president of the International Society of Appraisers, Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter and a ranking member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.

Mark F. Moran senior editor, antiques and collectibles books for Krause Publications in Iola, Wis. is a generalist. He has been a contributing editor to Antique Trader magazine, editor of Antique Review East magazine, producer of Atlantique City and editorial director of F+W Media’s Antiques Group. He is the author of more than 20 books on antiques and collectibles.

Linda Roberts, president of the Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the International Society of Appraisers will offer appraisals on general items. Roberts and her husband Howard own White Orchid Antiques & Appraisals in Media, Pa.

Ellen Schroy, editor of 24 consecutive editions of the Warman's Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide, will returns as a general appraiser. Beyond her work as a noted author in the antiques industry, Schroy contributes to Antique Trader and has appeared as a guest on nationally broadcast television and radio shows.

Todd Peenstra, an appraiser and consultant based in Annapolis, Md. is an expert on fine art and antiques. He has worked with both world renowned collectors and first-time art and antiques buyers at the prestigious M.S. Rau Antiques. Peenstra has years of experience as a buyer, seller and appraiser of the finest works of art and antiques on the market.

“Atlantique City is one of the few shows that offer free appraisals with such a broad range of talent,” says Show Promoter Eric Bradley. “The majority of the people who take advantage of our appraisal services are interested in learning more about an item picked up at a sale or whether a treasured family heirloom has any value.” Bradley notes that appraisals at Altantique City are professional opinions of value.

Atlantique City show hours are 10-6 on Saturday, March 27 and 10-4 on Sunday, March 28. Advance ticket holders gain access to the show at 9 a.m. on Saturday. To buy tickets and learn more about Atlantique City, visit the Web site at www.atlantiquecity.com. For Atlantique City exhibitor information call 800.526.2724.

Countdown to Atlantique City

Karen — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:58:49 GMT

The online box office for the March 2009 Atlantique City Show is now open for business. Atlantique City will take place March 28-29, 2009, at the Atlantic City Convention Center. We look forward to bringing you hundreds of America’s finest dealers in one easily accessible and exciting show.

Save $5 off the on-site ticket price and enjoy early admission to the show when you purchase tickets in advance.

Shopping Sprees Return!

You can win one of two $500 shopping sprees sponsored by Barbara Gerr Antiques of Galloway, N.J. Show buyers can enter a daily drawing for a $500 shopping spree in the appraisal/bookstore area of the show floor or right outside the Barbara Gerr Antiques booth #1000.

One winner will be randomly chosen each day to win the shopping spree. You must be present to win and the shopping spree is good for purchases made at the show.

Collectors love Atlantique City

Dealers cover the Atlantic City Convention Center with 18th, 19th and early 20th century period antiques and fine arts including Tiffany lamps and metalwork, American folk art, European and American bronze, drawings, prints, fine furniture, Asian art and antiques, glass, porcelain and silver. Exhibitors will be coming from 41 states and Canada, Great Britain, Europe and the Orient.

Decorative arts from every major period will be in evidence: Art Deco, Aesthetic, Georgian, early American, Art Nouveau, Victorian, Modernism, and Arts & Crafts. Fine estate jewelry, Roseville, rare gems and important collections from every corner of the globe will be for sale. Antique and vintage toy dealers will bring cast iron, dolls, tin windup, vintage robots, cars, Victorian, paper and Baby Boomer-era items.

Experience the unusual curiosities at Atlantique City.Coin-operated machines, neat finds, advertising, medical and scientific technology, clocks and rugs – whether you can spend $5 or $500,000, you’ll go home with something from Atlantique City!

Show hours are Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Advance ticket buyers admitted at 9 a.m. Saturday.

Are you going to the Atlantique City show? Are you planning on attending another show this spring?

Feel free to log your reply here on the Antique Trader blog.

Newest issue of Antique Trader

Karen — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 21:55:58 GMT

Here's a sneak peek at the newest issue of Antique Trader (cover date February 25).

Inside you'll find antique auction news, antique show previews and reviews, a beautiful story on the museum exhibit of a fabulous quilt collection, and so much more!

Also included in the Feb. 25 issue is this month's bonus postcard content: articles on George Washington, England, real life heroes, and the almost-lost art of fan-carving. You can read these postcard stories (and more) on the Antique Trader postcard page. You won't want to miss the fan-carving article if you're interested in getting a set of free postcards featuring this astounding art form.

And don't miss the cover story on Levittown, "the birth of the 'burbs," an insightful look into post-war American culture.

Enjoy!

BRAFA, Europe's second-largest antiques and fine arts fair, gets underway this week

Karen — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 22:08:05 GMT

The 54th Brussels Antiques & Fine Arts Fair (BRAFA), Belgium’s oldest and most important antiques fair, will take place from Jan. 23-Feb. 1, 2009, at the Tour & Taxis site in Brussels, Belgium.

Brussels Antiques & Fine Arts Fair (BRAFA), a major antique and arts fair taking place in the heart of Europe, has become a benchmark event for European art markets with some 40,000 visitors expected to attend, ranging from museum curators to collectors and lovers of art.

Some 130 exhibitors, 50 percent Belgian and 50 percent international, will share 130,000 square feet in Tour & Taxis Building A. Special care is paid to the quality and authenticity of the works on display, which undergo strict selection procedures by an independent board of museum curators and international experts not participating in the fair. It is this insistence on the exceptional quality of the exhibits that has enabled the fair to flourish internationally since its move to the Tour & Taxis site in 2004.

For the first time in the history of BRAFA, two galleries from the United States (Tony Anninos – Asian Arts, San Francisco and Sophie Scheidecker – Fine Art, 19th and 20th century and contemporary paintings and drawings, New York) will be taking part in the fair.

Beyond BRAFA, antique lovers can enjoy the eclectic antique market every Saturday and Sunday on the Place du Grand Sablon. But that is not all! Brussels, Belgium, offers sophisticated simplicity and welcomes visitors with 85 museums; the famous Grand’ Place where hanging out is a must; renowned architecture and art nouveau; gastronomy and world-class beer and chocolate – Brussels is where fun is always in fashion!

Discover the many beautiful castles and cities of French-speaking Belgium such as Namur, a romantic city on the River Meuse at www.namur.be. For information on other cities in the region visit www.opt.be.

Our own Mark Moran, who wrote the above piece, will be attending the BRAFA and keeping us current with the goings-on at this important and exciting event.

Stay tuned!

Click here for Mark Moran's review of the 2008 BRAFA fair, "High style in the low country."

Are you interested in a $500 shopping spree?

Karen — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 20:30:56 GMT

If so, check this out:

Win a $500 Shopping Spree at Atlantique City

Barbara Gerr Antiques to sponsor two drawings at the show

Attendees at the 2009 Atlantique City, New Jersey’s largest indoor antiques and collectibles show, will have the opportunity to win one of two $500 shopping sprees sponsored by Barbara Gerr Antiques of Galloway, N.J. Atlantique City returns to the Atlantic City Convention Center for its now annual show on March 28-29, 2009.

Show buyers can enter a daily drawing for a $500 shopping spree in the appraisal/ bookstore area of the show floor or right outside the Barbara Gerr Antiques booth (#1000). One winner will be randomly chosen each day to win the shopping spree. You must be present to win and the shopping spree is good for purchases made at the show.

“Barbara Gerr Antiques has been a tremendous partner over the last few years. Their sponsorship of the shopping sprees benefits all exhibitors as well as consumers and adds to the excitement at the show,” says Show Producer Eric Bradley of F+W Media. “Our buyers really look forward to the drawings.”

The March 2009 Atlantique City Show expects hundreds of exhibitors of art, furniture, jewelry and vintage fashion, pottery, porcelain, glass, dolls, toys, silver and more. The show is considered by many dealers to be one of the easiest indoor shows to do because of drive-in set up that takes place over two days. It's also a haven for collectors and decorators with objects and styles ranging from colonial to contemporary.

Atlantique City will continue to offer attendees valuable services such as free furniture delivery within a 100-mile radius, free appraisals, drawings for shopping sprees and deep discounts on the latest antiques and collectibles books. A comprehensive multi-media marketing campaign includes advertising in daily newspapers, television, community-themed magazines and weekly papers.

Buyers may find updates on show events and activities at www.atlantiquecity.com. Learn more about Barbara Gerr Antiques at www.webteek.com/potsinacnj. For Atlantique City exhibitor information contact Eric Bradley at 800.526.2724 or eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

Hunt Valley Antiques Show

Karen — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:57:12 GMT

Antique hunters have a reason to celebrate. This year’s Hunt Valley Antiques Show, Baltimore’s most prestigious annual antiquing event, will be bigger and better than ever.

Marking its 39th consecutive year, the Hunt Valley Antiques Show takes place February 20-22 at the Crowne Plaza Baltimore, in Timonium, MD.

The show will bring together 56 of the nation’s top dealers offering for sale more than 10,000 examples of antiques and fine art.

Visitors will discover exquisite examples of formal and country furniture, paintings, prints, glass, ceramics, textiles, rugs, silver, clocks, jewelry, folk art and equestrian antiques from four centuries. Every item is backed by a guarantee of authenticity.

“This year’s show will be 25 percent larger and feature more great dealers than ever before,” says Bob James, president of Armacost Antiques Shows. “Attendees will be delighted by the quality and sheer variety of antiques they’ll find.”

“The Hunt Valley Antiques Show offers a tremendous chance to become better acquainted with the world of fine antiques,” says John Fiske, partner in Ipswich, MA-based Fiske & Freeman, specialists in 17th and early 18th century English furniture and decorative accessories. “Dealers like ourselves bring all our best offerings to the show and are pleased to help educate anyone with an interest in decorating with antiques or enhancing a collection.”

Besides meeting dealers, visitors to the show will also be greeted by Baltimore’s own star-spangled songwriter, Francis Scott Key, as brought to life by accomplished stage, screen and television actor Charles Wissinger.

Hours of the show are Friday, February 20, 11 am-5 pm; Saturday, February 21, 11 am-7 pm; and Sunday, February 22, 11 am-5 pm.

Admission tickets can be purchased at the door for $15 each or for $12 each at www.ArmacostAntiquesShows.com. Children under 12 are free.

The show is located at Crowne Plaza Baltimore, 2004 Greenspring Drive, Timonium, MD. Free parking is available.

A preview party will take place Thursday, February 19, 6 pm-9:30 pm.

J. Thomas Savage, director of Museum Affairs for Winterthur, will open the show with a lecture on Friday, February 20 at 10 am. The acclaimed author will provide tips for choosing the right antiques based on vast knowledge of American architecture, interiors and decorative arts.

James Archer Abbott, curator of Evergreen Museum and noted scholar in the field of American Presidential tastes, will lead a private show tour on Saturday, February 21 at 9:45 am.

Separate tickets are required for the preview party, lecture and private show tour. More information is available at 410-366-1980.

Dealers participating in the Hunt Valley Antiques Show include Appleton Manor Antiques & Gallery, New Ipswich, NH; At the Sign of the Sycamore, Sewickley, PA; Aydin Oriental Rugs, Germantown, MD; Brennan & Mouilleseaux, Northfield, CT; Brill's Antiques, Newport News, VA; Sue Brown, London, UK; The Country Squire, Milton, MA; Cunha/St. John, Essex, MA; Dawson Gallery, Stevensville, MD; Dongan Collection, Bronxville, NY; Drake Field Antiques, Longmeadow, MA; Drusilla’s Books, Baltimore, MD; Dubey’s Art & Antiques, Baltimore, MD; Fair Trade, Shelburne Falls, MA; Fiske & Freeman, Ipswich, MA; Fletcher/Copenhaver Fine Art, Fredericksburg, VA; James Gallagher, North Norwich, NY; Gemini Antiques, Oldwick, NJ; The Hanebergs Antiques, East Lyme, CT; Hanes & Ruskin, Old Lyme, CT; J&M Antiques, East Amherst, NY; Arthur Guy Kaplan, Baltimore, MD; Kruggel Antiques, Rochester, NY; Leatherwood Antiques, Sandwich, MA; M. McAlister, Brentwood, TN; Malcolm Magruder, Millwood, VA; Trace Mayer, Louisville, KY; Merry Walk Antiques, Annapolis, MD; Aileen Minor Antiques, Centreville, MD; Neverbird Antiques, Surry, VA; Nicoll Fine Art & Antiques, Newcastle, ME; Paulette & Hilary Nolan, Falmouth, MA; Park Place Gallery, Delton, MI; Peenstra Antiques Appraisals, Annapolis, MD; Perry-Joyce Fine Arts, Sawyer, MI; The Print Portfolio, Potomac, MD; Robert Quilter Fine Arts, Baltimore, MD; Running Battle Antiques, Newagen, ME; Russack & Loto Books, Northwood, NH; Saje Americana, Short Hills, NJ; Rick Scott, San Francisco, CA; Shaeffer/Sutor, Glyndon, MD; Shaia of Williamsburg, Williamsburg, VA; Solomon Suchard, Shaker Heights, OH; The Spare Room, Baltimore, MD; Spencer Marks, Southhampton, MA; Philip Suval, Fredericksburg, VA; Swan Tavern Antiques, Ordinary, VA; Time & Strike, McLean, VA; Washington Square Antiques, Alexandria, VA; Ed Weissman, Antiquarian, Portsmouth, NH; and Roger D. Winter, Solebury, PA.

Proceeds from the show help fund the programs of Family & Children’s Services of Central Maryland. The Baltimore, MD-based agency delivers services to vulnerable individuals and families experiencing problems relating to social and personal adjustment.

The Hunt Valley Antiques Show is produced by Washington, DC-based Armacost Antiques Shows. Among other events, the firm produces the Naples Art & Antiques Show, the Brandywine River Museum Antiques Show and the new Aspen Art & Antiques Show.

About Armacost Antiques Shows
Armacost Antiques Shows lets people of all ages discover the simple pleasure of owning fine antiques. Visitors to our shows can shop, look and learn in friendly surroundings, knowing they can buy with a guarantee of authenticity. All shows benefit nonprofits, including museums, churches, social service agencies and preservation groups. The nonprofit sponsors help generate enthusiasm for antiques while delivering much-needed financial support for their institutions and communities. Information is available at www.ArmacostAntiquesShows.com.

December's over ...

Karen — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:25:16 GMT

the computer just doesn't know it yet.

We'll be picking a winner for the December Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes soon. That lucky winner is going to receive the Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles 2009 Price Guide. Although the entry form doesn't reflect it yet, we're giving a new prize away for January '09: Petretti's Coca-Cola Collectibles Price Guide. All entries received from January 1 to January 31 will be entered for the chance to win the Coca-Cola Collectibles Price Guide.

Your soda pop collecting library isn't complete until you have a copy of this book on your bookshelf. It's absolutely beautiful: This 12th edition is hardcover and has almost 650 full-color pages packed with 2,000 color and 3,000 black and white photos, along with descriptions and values. The cover price is $49.99.

If you want to be able to recognize a $10 Coke item from a $100 Coke item from a $1,000 Coke item, this is the book to have. For example, the Coke playing card values range from $10 to $6,500! Would you be able to tell the difference?

Click here or on the banner above to enter the sweepstakes.

If you've decided you have to have this book and don't want to wait to see if you won, you can order it from www.KrauseBooks.com and use offer code ATBL19 to save 10% - that's a savings of $4.99, folks.

Click here for more information on Petretti's Coca-Cola Collectibles Price Guide.

I'm not eligible to win, but if I were, I would be entering this sweepstakes every day. Being the bibliophile that I am, I want this book for myself ... but some lucky sweeps entrant is going to win it!

Good luck to you all!

The Greater Boston Antiques Festival

Karen — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:36:46 GMT

Over 160 antiques dealers from 10 states will assemble under one roof at THE GREATER BOSTON ANTIQUES FESTIVAL at the Shriner’s Auditorium on Saturday and Sunday, January 17-18, 2009, showcasing thousands of sought after items including furniture from many periods, European ceramics, American pottery, sterling silver, folk art, mid century modern and jewelry of all types from fine antique estate to mid century costume. The Greater Boston Antiques Festival features dealers who have been screened for the quality of their items. Antique collectors of all levels can browse New England’s finest antiques collections in one easy stop without dealing with Boston’s parking and traffic problems. The Greater Boston Antiques Festival has something for everyone from the casual collector to the experienced investor to the person who is looking to decorate a home.

Admission to The Greater Boston Antiques Festival is only $8 per person (16 and under free.) Hours are Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Shriner’s Auditorium in Wilmington, MA, just 15 minutes north of Boston off interstate 93. Directions to Shriner’s Auditorium: Rte 93 to Exit #39 (3 exits north of the I-95 and I-93 interchange in Woburn). Take a right at the end of the ramp onto Concord St. Take your first left onto Fordham Rd. The Shriner's Auditorium is located on the right hand side at the end of Fordham Rd. For more information call (781) 862-4039 or visit www.NEAntiqueShows.com. Free parking is available for 1,500 vehicles.

The Greater Boston Antiques Festival is managed by Marvin Getman of New England Antique Shows.

Free Appraisals Return to Atlantique City

Karen — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:04:05 GMT

Experts offer appraisals of political memorabilia, jewelry, antiques and autographs

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – As the nation debates McCain or Obama, Biden or Palin, experts at Atlantique City will be thinking Roosevelt, Lincoln, Washington and Kennedy. Atlantique City will again provide free appraisals at the next antiques and collectibles show Oct. 18-19 in the Atlantic City Convention Center.

Appraisals will be offered by specialists in fine jewelry, textiles, glass, autographs, books, maps and more. Specialists from WorthPoint will be on hand to appraise political memorabilia at the special exhibit titled The American Presidential Experience.

Last season experts discovered several treasures, including a dress worn by Judy Garland, straight from the MGM lot and an early American flag worth $500,000. More treasures are waiting to be discovered by our line up of experts:

•    Marking his 38th year with Antique Trader magazine as editor, author and antique expert, Kyle Husfloen of Palm Springs, Calif., will return to appraise at Atlantique City. Husfloen is author of the regular column, Kyle on Antiques, and has served as a guest appraiser and lecturer on antiques across the nation. Husfloen’s cornerstone price guide, Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide, turns 25 years old this fall.

•    Specializing in estate jewelry and gems will be certified gemologist and appraiser Paula Fox of Bensalem, PA. Fox has worked with television, sport and business celebrities in addition to being vice president of the International Society of Appraisers, Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter and a ranking member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.

•    Ellen Schroy, who has edited 24 consecutive editions of the Warman’s Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide, will return as a general appraiser. Beyond her work as a noted author in the antiques industry, Schroy, of Quakertown, Pa., contributes to Antique Trader and has appeared as a guest on nationally broadcast television and radio shows.

•    Bringing years of experience in appraisal of maps, prints, books and autographs is Dale Sorenson, director of auctions and former owner of Waverly Auctions, along with Quinn’s Auctions, of Falls Church, Va. In addition to being a Ph.D. in American literature and studies, Sorenson brings to the show years of experience cataloging and providing formal appraisals.

President of the Eastern Pennsyl vania Chapter of the International Society of Appraisers, Linda Roberts will provide appraisals on gen eral items. R oberts and her husband, Howard, own White Orchid Antiques & Appraisals in Media, Pa.

• After working with both world renowned collectors and first-time art and antiques buyers at the prestigious M.S. Rau Antiques, Todd Peenstra opened his own appraisal and consulting service in Annapolis, MD. His years of experience as a buyer, seller and appraiser of the finest works of art and antiques on the market make Todd a top resource for professional and accurate appraisals.

“Appraisal events like this are great ways to determine if you are ready to sell that lifelong collection or just a piece or two from an estate,” said Eric Bradley, show producer of Atlantique City. “Last season, participants had just as much fun watching someone else’s appraisal as they did watching their own.”

Appraisal hours will be noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, and on Sunday, Oct. 19. Attendees may have one item appraised for free; subsequent appraisals are charged $10 each. Appraisals are considered professional opinions of value. Appraisers are prohibited from giving values on items purchased during the show. The appraisal booth is located near the Atlantique City Bookstore, where visitors can purchase books and magazine subscriptions.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call Atlantique City Show office at 800.526.2724 or visit www.AtlantiqueCity.com.

Countdown to Labor Day

Noah — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 15:09:38 GMT

Well, folks, Labor Day is two weeks away. That means, of course, the end of summer. Kids head back to school and we can look forward to cooler weather, shorter days, and autumn colors sool following.

Labor Day also means antique shows. The York Antiques Show runs from Aug. 29-31, there are many holiday antiques fairs, shows, markets and fleas also running through the Labor Day holiday weekend all over the country...not to mention all the auction opportunities.

But let's not forget about the collectibles dedicated to this century-old holiday itself! Robert Reed wrote this week's Antique Trader cover story on Labor Day collectibles.

Visit www.antiquetrader.com and check it out! (Or you can click on the cover image below.) And don't forget to check out the story "An antique collection can save the day when times get hard" — it's a MUST read.

Antique Trader Blog - Antiques, Atlantique City, Antiques Show, Antique Trader, Collectibles

The end is near ...

Antique Trader covers: news, art or ... ?

A little fall cleaning at Antique Trader ...

F+W Media cancels March Atlantique City

Antique Trader 09-09-09

And more recent antiques-related headlines:

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Pawn Stars makes an impression

To pawn or not to pawn ...

New Antique Trader is in the mail

Have you entered the Treasure Hunt this month

Here they are: more article links

And off it goes! Antique Trader 7/22/09

The newest issue of Antique Trader is in the mail

Any press is good press, right?

Regional collectors club conventions

I don't think you'll want to miss these either

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Antique Trader, June 17, 2009 issue

More antique features stories

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Newest issue of Antique Trader

Question of the Week: Brimfield anyone?

In case you haven't seen it

AntiqueTrader.com article links

Brand new issue of Antique Trader headed to press

Weekend do-over?

Shortcuts to antiques and collectibles features

Latest issue of Antique Trader

Observations from Atlantique City

How was Atlantique City for you?

Atlantique City

Get your name out there!

Expect the unusual at Atlantique City!

ACNA headed to the Big Easy

Chicago Antique Market schedule

Five days of quality vintage bling in Vegas

More antique features

So many shows ...

Auction calendar update

FREE Appraisals at Atlantique City

Countdown to Atlantique City

Newest issue of Antique Trader

BRAFA, Europe's second-largest antiques and fine arts fair, gets underway this week

Are you interested in a $500 shopping spree?

Hunt Valley Antiques Show

December's over ...

The Greater Boston Antiques Festival

Free Appraisals Return to Atlantique City

Countdown to Labor Day