Antique Trader Blog - Antiques publications

Collectibles from the "here and now" to the "way back when"

Karen — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 22:09:51 GMT

Pottermania

I admit that Harry Potter may not register on collectors’ radar not as easily as early American stoneware or Caughley cups and saucers, but it is an important emerging area nonetheless. The market research conducted for the new book “Harry Potter Collector’s Handbook” shows that all things Potter have the potential for lasting staying power in the hearts and wallets of today’s young readers and moviegoers. The book is a novel endeavor for our company due to the fact the collecting area is so recent (the first Harry Potter book was published in 1997 and the first film was released just four years later).

The values in the book are very affordable, even for some of the more desirable first edition novels. It makes the Harry Potter collecting area all that more accessible for young people. This week’s cover story may be just the tinder needed to stoke the collecting spark between one generation and another.

(You might also be interested in the Unofficial Harry Potter Cookbook)

Antique Trader Flashback

On page 12 we feature something that was recently suggested by a longtime reader. This reader called our offices to inquire if we were interested in her large library of Antique Trader back issues, which she found while cleaning out her basement. Curiosity got the better of her and she soon realized an entire morning had slipped by while she read article after article. “I still subscribe and many of these articles are still relevant today,” she said.

Well, a quick peek into the Antique Trader archives provides more than 50 years of articles and familiar names, hence Antique Trader Flashback. If readers like the feature, we will publish more articles from decades past. We’ll show current photographs and recent prices realized but it’s always fun to see what things were once worth 30, 40 or even 50 years ago.

The first article is on John Rogers Groups. When the article was first published in The Antique Trader Weekly, spring 1975, the editors wrote: “We feel that these articles are timeless, that they will be as valuable 20 years from now as they are today.” They were absolutely correct.

Still remember a favorite article from the past? Feel free to call or drop a note in the mail or call. I’ll do my best to locate it in our archives. ■

— Eric Bradley

Preserving the relics of our collective past

Karen — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 18:07:53 GMT

Everyone has a few items in their house they are saving for reasons only they know. Over the past few years I’ve worked hard to keep my pack-rat habits in check. However, there’s always one or two boxes full of newspaper clippings, magazines and assorted snapshots of our lives that seems to accompany us in every move.

This week’s cover feature offers a new look at what you can do to preserve the items dear to your collection or dear to your heart. Many people look at their collections as a personal, intellectual pursuit – one that their children may not be excited to inherit.

But the old quilts, jewelry, books and pocket watch in use every day is often the most cherished items passed down from one generation to another.

Congratulations!

A hearty congrats goes out to Sherri Jones of Tampa, Fla. As the lucky winner of the July Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes, Jones will get a two-volume set of jewelry reference books by Kathy Flood, as well as a blue and green crystal Christmas tree brooch featured on the cover of “Warman’s Costume Jewelry Figurals.”

August Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes

Make sure you visit the Antique Trader website each day to enter the August Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes for your chance to win one of four Noritake British Airways pickle plates. Enter at http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com.

— Eric Bradley

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• Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
• Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide.
• And browse the Antique Trader classified ads or place your own online ad - FREE

Here's to wonderful finds in unexpected places

Karen — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 21:00:00 GMT

Sometimes a heart-stopping find appears in the most unlikely location. Last week my wife and I took a moment to stroll through a thrift store not known for its great selection of antique furniture. As a lifelong lover of old furniture, I had spent many an afternoon hoping to find some neat item to add to our house.

Shortly after walking in, my eyes got as big as Oreo cookies. There in the corner, leaning up against the wall was the unmistakable glimmer of bird’s-eye maple. Picking through the rubble of mismatched bed frames staked on top, the maple was revealed to be the headboard of a sleigh bed with legs that terminate in an empire style and detailed carvings. Perfect for my 10-year-old son, the price was a satisfying $40.

Favorite finds happen to us all the time and we’d love to hear yours. After launching the second annual Favorite Finds contest last issue, we’ve already received a number of entries.

Make sure you send your story in by Sept. 30 to Antique Trader Favorite Finds, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54990 or ATNEWS@fwmedia.com.

Butter Pats Return!

For the months of August and September in Antique Trader’s online Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes we will be offering four prizes – vintage British Airways Noritake Pickle Plates sponsored by the Butter Pat Patter Association.

What’s a pickle plate, you might ask? These were used exclusively by British Airways on the orient routes for First-Class cabin meals.

This rectangular-shaped pickle plate was designed by Noritake and features a design representing a netsuke and a money pouch. Netsukes are small ivory, wood, metal, or porcelain pieces used as toggles on the end of the cord that held a Japanese money pouch. Measuring 3 3/4 inches by 2 1/4 inches by 1/2 inch high, the plate is from Noritake’s Kaiseki Set.

You can only enter for a chance to win one of these four pickle plates on the Internet at www.AntiqueTrader.com/sweepstakes.

It’s easy to join the Butter Pat Patter Association and get 10 issues of its newsletter – The Patter – all year long. Just send $22, payable to Mary Dessoie to 265 Eagle Bend Drive, Bigfork, MT 59911-6235. Every member receives a valuable transportation china premium with their membership. ■

— Eric Bradley

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• Find us on Twitter and Facebook
• Visit the Antique Trader website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter.

• Get up-to-date pricing for tens of thousands of antiques & collectibles on Collect.com – FREE for 1 year – when you join the Collecting Insider Club!

Columnists report on keys to antiques business success

Karen — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 17:13:01 GMT

This week we offer you two sides of the same coin.

Columnist Wayne Jordan and guest columnist Daryle Lambert write about the changing market place of antiques and how important it is for all of us to keep an eye towards the future while we enjoy the past.

Jordan’s column (Elements shifting power from antique dealers) talks about the changing way collectors are consuming information on antiques and collectibles. Collectors demand on-the-spot pricing analysis and research through hand-held, Internet-ready devices. We are seeing this more than ever on our website, as well as how advertisers are now promoting their auctions; many are replacing long listings of antiques and collectibles with a simple website address.

Lambert (Knowledge is the key to antique dealers' success) urges dealers to branch out and keep learning about new areas and emerging trends. He urges dealers to attend antique shows, read magazines and network to get a better bead on what’s selling, and how prices are changing.

Both gentlemen offer crucial messages to today’s shoppers and dealers. The antiques world will never be the same from here on out. It’s our duty to usher in a new era for the next generation of collectors and dealers. That duty starts with investing in your skills and education.

Magazine update

The July 7 cover dated issue featured better cover stock and improved inside pages. We’ll see less bleed-through on the pictures and ads.

Thank you for sticking with us through this transition. If you have any questions or concerns about delivery or readability of your magazine, please contact me at the address at left or at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

We have made many changes based on subscribers’ suggestions, so please don’t think your questions or concerns will go unnoticed.

— Eric Bradley

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• Find us on Twitter and Facebook
• Visit the Antique Trader website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter.
• Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
• Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide.
• And browse the Antique Trader classified ads or place your own online ad - FREE

CJCI debuts newsletter

Karen — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 21:45:38 GMT

The newly formed collecting group Costume Jewelry Collectors International (CJCI) has just released the summer issue of its new magazine.

The cover of the summer issue of Costume Jewelry Collectors International Magazine is shown here. It has been expanded from 24 to 28 pages in this issue, and includes a feature on the legendary Joan Castle Joseff who passed away at the age of 97 in March 2010. Here are some particulars about the organization:

• Organization for costume jewelry collectors and admirers reaching around the globe

• Publishes quarterly full-color magazine for members/subscribers - Costume Jewelry Collectors Int’l Magazine “THE Magazine for Jewelry Enthusiasts”

• Provides online social forum for jewelry collectors where they can connect and share jewelry information

CJCI was created after Lucille Tempesta, founder of Vintage Fashion and Costume Jewelry Newsletter and Club (VFCJ), announced her retirement in the last issue of the newsletter published late last year. VFCJ published for about 20 years and hosted a convention for the last 16 years, becoming the backbone of a group dedicated to the history and dazzle of the highly-collectible jewelry.

Subscriptions to CJCI Magazine are currently available for $25 which includes four issues of the full-color quarterly publication and an invitation to the CJCI online social forum.

Visit www.costumejewelrycollectors.com/membership.htm for more information.

The CJCI is currently planning their collectors convention for 2011. ■

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Wonder Woman's new costume wasn't the first

Karen — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 19:22:02 GMT

All the news outlets today are featuring Wonder Woman's new outfit, set to debut in issue No. 600.

Our friends over at Comics Buyers Guide (also published by F+W Media, Inc.) show the Amazon Princess has had a few costume changes over the years. It's a perspective you won't find anywhere else and totally worth visiting.

The full story on Wonder Woman's New/Old look was posted today on the CBGExtra Blog.

-posted by Eric Bradley

Warman's Jewelry author Kathy Flood focus of teleseminar

Karen — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 21:18:48 GMT

Although readers of the June 30 issue of Antique Trader will get a sneak peak of the new Warman's Jewelry, 4th edition by Kathy Flood (right), you can get a chance to chat with Kathy in an exclusive teleconference hosted by The Queen of Auctions Lynn Dralle.

Kathy will be the featured expert where she will answer questions about buying and selling costume jewelry! It will be this Wednesday, June 16 at 5 pm PDT, 8 pm EDT.

This teleseminar is free for members of members of Dralle's Queen's Court but costs $29.95 for everyone else. If you can’t make the live call it will be recorded and available as a download soon after.

For those of you not familiar with Dralle, during the last 12 years she has established herself as the poster child of eBay success stories. Starting in 1998, Dralle has overseen a strong eBay business. She has since appeared on hundreds of radio and TV programs, including NBC's "Evening Magazine" and "Inside Edition" with Deborah Norville. She was featured in the September 2006 issue of "Good Housekeeping." She has also produced and hosted a series of DVD programs entitled "The Queen's Academy." She is still an eBay power seller and sells about 600 items each month at online auction. She lives in Southern California with her two children.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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• Find us on Twitter and Facebook
• Visit the Antique Trader Website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter.
• Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
• Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide.
• And browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your own online ad - FREE

Collecting and the 'happiness of pursuit'

Karen — Sat, 12 Jun 2010 19:18:09 GMT

One of the great things about this magazine is encountering such a diversity of people and the collections they are passionate about. One day may be pinback buttons and the next, Lalique hood ornaments. (Lalique hood ornament photo courtesy Lalique, France.)

The amazement extends into my private time and a recent feature on the often reclusive, but always intelligent, art collector Charles Saatchi, has fascinated me. He and his brother co-founded the global advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi.

Saatchi has been answering questions by readers of TheDailyBeast.com, an Internet news and commentary website. I eagerly check the site every week for another serving of idiosyncratic nuggets on how Saatchi views the world and his quest as a collector extraordinaire. Besides offering pithy responses to questions such as “What is mankind’s greatest unsolved mystery that particularly puzzles you?”

Saatchi: “Why kamikaze pilots wore helmets. Why is it called a TV set when you only get one? Why does a fat chance and a slim chance mean the same thing?

One reader asked Saatchi if he believed he had “a collecting obsessive compulsive disorder.”

His response: “My aim in life isn’t so much the pursuit of happiness as the happiness of pursuit.”

It’s under this philosophy that we offer you an excerpt of Kathy Flood’s new book, “Warman’s Jewelry,” 4th edition. It’s a departure from the other jewelry reference books we’ve offered and truly speaks to the heart of those passionate about a singular personal pursuit.

I hope you enjoy and take a moment to reflect on your own “happiness of pursuit.”

-posted by Eric Bradley

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Mated pair of Andrew Clemens sand art bottles surface ... again

Karen — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 05:52:09 GMT

A curious and unique pair of sand art bottles, handcrafted by Andrew Clemens (1857-1894) of McGregor, Iowa, will be offered for sale in a July 2 auction held by W. Yoder Auction and carried live via ProxiBid. Popularly referred to as the Sweetheart Sandbottles, these rare bottles have surfaced for sale no less than three times in the last five years - twice in just the last four months.

Clemens lost his hearing and speech at age 5 due to a "brain fever." As a deaf-mute he earned worldwide acclaim for his ability to "paint" images inside blown glass bottles with nothing more than a set of special tools (including a fish hook) and the patience of a yeoman. He was proud that his specially colored sand came from Iowa's Pictured Rocks area of Pikes Peak State Park. According to several online articles, Clemens created most of his work from 1880-1886 and is acknowledged as the inventor and possibly the sole practitioner of his art form. Antique Trader featured Clemens' work in a cover story in February 2008.

It's estimated that of the hundreds of sand art bottles Clemens made during his regrettably short life (he died at age 37 or 42 depending on which account you read) only about 50 bottles remain. They are highly coveted by American folk art collectors for their ingenuity and beauty. Prices range from about $500 for lesser quality examples to as much as $25,000. Four bottles are on display at the Iowa State Historical Museum in Des Moines and other bottles are documented on a fan site.

They are referred to as the Sweetheart Sandbottles, at least that's how auctioneer Wes Cowan described them when he sold the pair for $24,500 (not including buyer's premium) in February 2005. The commissioned bottles were made for Helen Wimmler, Milwaukee, and Henry Reinken, Manitowoe, (sic) Wis. (The Wisconsin city of Manitowoc is misspelled.)

Fast forward to Feb. 16, 2010. In a listing that's since expired from general searches, the sandbottles were offered by a Florida seller on eBay. By all accounts the listing shows the bottles were claimed after five bids for $19,000. The listing is for the same Wimmler and Reinken bottles, "the only 'mated pair' of Clemens sand bottle art."

For whatever reason, the wonderful Sweetheart Sandbottles are back on the market and represent one more opportunity for collectors to own a piece of peculiar folk art. The bottles are shown on Yoder's auction website along with three other rare examples included in the firm's July 2 auction. One of the three examples depicts an American eagle above a banner reading "M.W. Cole," another shows a paddle wheel boat and the third depicts a floral bouquet in an urn.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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•Find us on Twitter and Facebook
•Visit the Antique Trader Website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter.
•Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store.
•Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide.
•And browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your own online ad - FREE

Holly Hobbie celebrates simpler times

Karen — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 21:43:55 GMT

In this week’s issue you’ll find a feature on what I considered to be a contemporary sliver of the doll-collecting field: Holly Hobbie. Although this character was not on my radar before writer Jim Cihlar suggested it, it’s easy to see why people are giving the 1970s simple-living poster child a second look. The girls who loved Holly as a child are now in their late 30s or early 40s; her message of a slower lifestyle is an escape from the always-on, wired world.

The character is a bona fide non-commercial, commercial success. She didn’t have a Saturday morning cartoon show, rather she got her start on the front of greeting cards. As a father to three, it would be unheard of today for a child’s pop culture icon to come from anywhere but YouTube or the myriad of children-oriented cable television channels.

Dealers would be wise to look at the 1970s in a new light. The decade that brought us Star Wars, bell-bottomed pants and lava lamps may be a lucrative source of new collectibles for a maturing customer base.

Congratulations

Jeff Deane of McFarland, Mich., is the winner of the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Memorial Day reference library. He wins copies of Civil War Collectibles, Vietnam War Collectibles, World War II Collectibles.

Don’t miss the special June sweepstakes to promote the Red Wing Collector Society’s National Convention July 8-10 in Red Wing, Minn. The prize package includes a one-year membership in the RWCS, which includes the official newsletter, a rare 2009 RWCS convention commemorative advertising bean pot and a 2010 RWCS convention commemorative.

Learn more about our online-only sweepstakes at www.AntiqueTrader.com/Sweepstakes.

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• Find us on Twitter.
• Find us on Facebook.
• Visit the Antique Trader website. Sign up for our FREE newsletters!
• Get more information on subscribing to Antique Trader.

• Reference media available about your favorite collectibles.
• Antique Trader message boards .
• Browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your FREE online ads .
• Enter the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes.

RWCS sponsors latest Antique Trader sweepstakes

Karen — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 14:31:25 GMT

We’ve been very busy working up new ways for readers to interact with fellow collectors and collections. One project in particular is a great opportunity for lovers of Red Wing stoneware and art pottery ceramics.

Antique Trader is teaming up with the Red Wing Collectors Society to bring you a whopper for our monthly, online-only Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes. In exchange for signing up to receive our two, free weekly e-newsletters through the sweepstakes, entrants have a chance to win a $150 prize package through the month of June.

The Red Wing Collectors Society is one of the oldest most active, engaged and knowledgeable clubs in the United States. You can lean more about this great group of people at www.redwingcollectors.org, which incidentally is the No. 1 source of Red Wing Pottery knowledge in the world. Its famous national convention is scheduled for July 8-10, 2010, in — where else — Red Wing, Minn.

The prize package includes a one-year membership in the RWCS, which includes the official newsletter six times a year, a rare 2009 RWCS convention commemorative advertising bean pot (available only to RWCS members and limited to 3,600 pieces) AND a 2010 RWCS convention commemorative, yet to be released, that’s only available to members at the July 8-10 convention.

You can enter at http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com/. This is the first time we’ve ever offered such a prize package and we’re proud to partner with the RWCS. Remember, this is an online only sweepstakes.

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This issue made it all worthwhile

Karen — Fri, 28 May 2010 20:08:18 GMT

It has been a crazy-busy week this week.

We've had two publication deadlines: the June 16 edition of Antique Trader and the Summer edition of the Antique Trader Traveler. The Traveler will be available soon as a free PDF download, so you'll want to watch for that. We'll announce when it's ready and where you can get it.

And, of course, we had the Auction Extra on Tuesday, and our regular e-newsletter that went out today. Plus, we had to produce next Tuesday's Auction Exra early because of the Memorial Day holiday on Monday. [You can sign up to receive your free Antique Trader e-newsletters at www.antiquetrader.com.]

Also, the office has been abuzz with preparations for the Randolph St. Market's Chicago Antique Market. Editor Eric Bradley will be out the door shortly to hop on down to Chicago and make final preparations there.

Whew! That's a lot of commotion!

But, I tell you what: Seeing this week's issue come together really made it all worthwhile. This may be our best issue yet! Here's a look at the cover. We've got a really fascinating piece on industrial antiques as our cover feature, and Eric had the chance to speak with American Pickers' Frank Wolfe on just that, industrial antiques.

I have to admit, when Eric told me about the industrial antiques feature, I had my doubts. But I have been completely won over.

We here at Antique Trader wish all of you a wonderful and safe holiday weekend. We're planning on sharing our weekend antiquing experiences with you — and we hope you'll do the same.

... and if you're in the area, drop by the Chicago Antique Market and experience the excitement! Eric will be at the Antique Trader Appraisal Fair.

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American Pickers second season premiers June 7

Karen — Sun, 23 May 2010 20:32:58 GMT

NEW YORK - Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz are once again searching the back roads, junkyards, and filled-to-the-brim barns in America for “rusty gold.” With an average of 3.8 million total viewers per episode in its first season, American Pickers, the No. 1 new cable series of 2010, returns for a second season with all new premieres beginning Monday, June 7 at 9pm ET on HISTORY.

Part sleuths, part antiques experts, and part cultural historians – Mike and Frank’s adventures bring them to small towns across the country in search of weird and wonderful Americana. Each treasure hunt leads them to fascinating, quirky characters – everyday people with stories that open a window onto American life.

As professional “pickers,” these childhood buddies comb through memorabilia and artifacts, hoping to find treasures among the trash. Sometimes they make a few bucks; and sometimes they walk away with little more than the history of an item.

The new season begins June 7 in North Carolina, where the duo comb through a collector’s abandoned outbuildings and find a 1950 Studebaker. Mike becomes obsessed with a 1934 pre-Airstream trailer, but can they negotiate a deal? Then, hoping to sell a choice vintage sign, they visit their friend and NASCAR champion Ryan Newman, who has a surprise of his own for the guys.

As their junkyard journeys continue, the pickers rummage through ramshackle school buses, a burned storage building, forgotten barns, salvage yards, and rust heaps in search of what they call “good junk.” They come across an item they’ve never seen before, place bets on what it actually is, and get a surprising assessment from the appraiser. They encounter a mother and daughter who catch the picking bug and give the guys a run for their money. And with nerves of steel, they try to strike deals with people who are often reluctant to part with their possessions.

Meanwhile, back in Iowa, Danielle Colby Cushman holds down the fort at Antique Archaeology. She spends her time getting leads, talking to sellers and doing research via trade publications and websites. Danielle also keeps the boys in line – while they keep her in stitches with their antics.

“We’re caretakers of treasures and the stories behind them,” says Mike. Traveling along with the duo, viewers will meet an assortment of American originals and watch as a patchwork of history unfolds – one treasure at a time.

Antique Trader covered American Picker's debut and its initial controversy in its February issue posted online.

Don't the coverage we gave PawnStars, American Pickers' sister show and the exclusive interview and video of Rick Harrison.

MEET THE “PICKERS”

Mike Wolfe

A lifelong “picker,” Mike has been combing through junk since the age of four. Over the years, he's earned a reputation as one of the country's foremost foragers, traveling coast to coast in search of forgotten treasures. Where other people see dilapidated barns and overgrown yards, Mike sees potential goldmines packed with rare finds and sensational stories.

Mike spends as much time as he can on the road, usually with Frank - his friend of 20 years and picking partner-in tow. "A picker's kind of like a nomad," he explains. Wherever they go, the two guys unearth hoards of unique items and spend some quality time with the offbeat characters who own them.

What exactly does Mike look for? "Anything I can make a buck on," he laughs. That could be anything from antique baby carriages and vintage jukeboxes to old cars and scrap metal. Mike's clients include interior designers, art directors, photographers and collectors – and he owns Antique Archaeology, a specialty shop that sells antiques, vintage items and more in sleepy Le Claire, Iowa. Visit Mike’s official company website here: www.antiquearcheology.com

Frank Fritz

Like his childhood friend Mike, Frank started picking early, collecting rocks and beer cans as a kid. He worked for many years as a fire and safety inspector but always had a passion for antiques, junk and anything with an engine. These days, he spends most of his time on the road with Mike, digging for treasure in barns, garages and junkyards across America.

Even-tempered and affable, he has a way with potential sellers and a knack for putting out fires: Mike calls him the bearded charmer. Frank does get a little carried away, however, by anything with an engine, and Mike often has to talk him out of buying yet another motorbike for his collection.

With their complementary personalities and shared love of picking, Frank and Mike make the perfect team. Still, since they're both out to cash in on their finds, some healthy competition always comes into play. Visit Frank’s official company website here: www.frankfritzfinds.com

Danielle Colby Cushman

While the guys are out picking, Danielle holds down the fort at Antique Archaeology - Mike's store and base of operations. She spends her time talking to buyers, packing up shipments and keeping Mike and Frank in line, while they keep her in stitches with their antics and jokes. Mike likes to say she's the glue that holds them all together. A mother of three, Danielle is always working on a new creative project, whether it's painting, designing clothes or selling vintage-inspired gifts online. She feels extremely proud of the "boys" and fortunate to work with such a talented pair.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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Nostalgia is a powerful force.

Karen — Fri, 14 May 2010 20:56:59 GMT

Nostalgia is a powerful force.

If you read both Melody Amsel-Arieli’s cover story on Judaica and the fascinating story behind former Illinois Gov. Jim Thompson’s recent duck decoy acquisition, you may see a common theme between two very different collecting areas.

The reasons people collect things have long fascinated me. It’s not so much what they collect, but why. For Amsel-Arieli, the collecting area of Judaica is deeply personal and reflects her family’s struggle and near extinction in the 20th century. For Thompson, his pursuit of Illinois-carved duck decoys reflects his admiration and respect of the state he served while in public office.

This is why we should never dismiss the reasons why someone collects. Thompson’s nostalgia for Illinois moved him to push the sales price of the Robert Elliston-carved decoy past its $12,000 to $15,000 estimate to its $40,250 sale price.

For true collectors, the object is a small part of the pursuit and joy. In most cases, it’s what the object represents that makes all the difference.
Happy Anniversary

This issue marks my one-year anniversary as your editor of Antique Trader. It has been a wonderful year and a fulfilling experience to talk with readers, work with talented writers and develop interesting projects and features on our website and in print.

Working with Online Editor Karen Knapstein, sales reps Ryan Solberg and Nick Ockwig and designer Wendy Wendt, our goal has been to diversify the magazine and provide information on the greatest variety of antiques and collectibles available. During the past year our team has completely changed the format, more than doubled the size of the magazine and has served more than 563,000 readers and more than 1 million page views on AntiqueTrader.com

The year to come will feature even more features, projects and plans. Thank you for making this year exciting and thank you for supporting our advertisers who support this magazine.

For me, each issue has been a collector’s edition.

— Eric Bradley

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Art & Antiques magazine has new owner after sale

Karen — Fri, 07 May 2010 22:23:27 GMT

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Wilmington-based Art & Antiques Worldwide Media said May 6 it has acquired Art & Antiques magazine from CurtCo Publishing.

The corporate offices of Art & Antiques, which has 35,000 paid subscribers, will move to Wilmington, said Phillip Troy Linger, president and publisher of Art & Antiques Worldwide Media.

Editorial offices and key editorial staff of the magazine aimed at affluent collectors will remain in New York, and sales offices will remain in California, Texas and New York. According to a news release, Linger’s plans include reintroducing the publication to national newsstands and enhancing its online presence.

— Eric Bradley

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•Find us on Twitter and Facebook
•Visit the Antique Trader Website and sign up for our FREE eNewsletter!
•Browse hundreds of collectibles reference books in our store!
•Need pricing data? Check out Warman's Antiques & Collectibles 2011 Price Guide
•And browse the Antique Trader Classifieds or place your own online ad - FREE!

Better paper on the way

Karen — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 18:24:43 GMT

Thank you to those who took the time to write or call about Antique Trader’s new look. It means a great deal to us as Antique Trader continues to evolve to better reflect the hobby and your changing tastes. Making such large changes to a 53-year-old antiques publication is an ongoing process and I respect that you care enough about the title to voice your opinion.

A selection of your letters is reprinted in Antique Trader magazine. They do a darn good job showing the passion you have for the hobby.

We’ve already heard the new format has streamlined delivery. A reader in New York state called and reported his copy arrived on time — a first for him over the last few issues. This reader also commented about the new size and the type of paper we use. Although he didn’t care for the paper stock, his immediate attention was on the fact the new size allows for more pages and better content, which matters more than ever now that its finally being delivered on time.

Nevertheless, you have spoken and we have listened. Although the new size is here to stay, we will be improving the quality of the paper in the next few weeks. The cover stock will be heavier and brighter. The inside pages will be a heavier, stronger sheet with less show through. The paper is an investment by F+W Media for the sole purpose of improving Antique Trader’s readability.

Again, to all of you Antique Trader subscribers who wrote in – thank you. As always, I welcome and encourage you to request features or column topics on any collecting area. Feel free to send reactions to the articles, features, new look and our columnists at any time. Send your thoughts to Antique Trader Editor, 700 E State St., Iola, WI 54990 or to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

On a related note, we are hearing reports that many of our subscribers have been targeted by agencies attempting to charge as much as $70 a year — three times our promotional subscription rates. Official renewal notices will only come from Palm Coast Data and F+W Media, Inc.

If you receive a notice and you suspect it is not from Antique Trader, please call Palm Coast Data at 386-246-3434 and a representative can help you.

— Eric Bradley

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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.
• Enter the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes HERE.

Anniversary of PT Barnum's 200th in Antique Trader

Karen — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 17:42:28 GMT

The May 5 edition of Antique Trader is filled with antique and collectible news and features.

The main cover feature celebrates the 200th anniversary of P.T. Barnum's birth. Circus enthusiasts are planning a year of celebrations and events to commemorate the occasion.

CLICK HERE to read the Antique Trader cover feature on P.T. Barnum and circus collectibles

This week's Antique Trader Question of the Week:

What do you think of collectors or crafters physically altering postcards for craft projects?

Post a reply here or drop us a line at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com. Or feel free to send us a note: Letters to the Editor, c/o Antique Trader, 700 E State Street, Iola, WI 54990.

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RWCS announces free trial membership offer

Karen — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 20:18:38 GMT

RED WING, Minn. – As part of its 2010 membership initiative, the Red Wing Collectors Society (RWCS) is offering FREE trial membership to everyone interested in Red Wing stoneware and pottery. Established in 1977, the RWCS is the largest group of collectors dedicated to the study and preservation of Red Wing and American pottery in the country.

As part of the free trial, participant will receive the February and April issues of the 2010 RWCS Newsletter. Packed with full-color feature articles about various lines of Red Wing wares, collector profiles, collecting trends, latest finds and club news, the Society has one of the best newsletters of any collectors group in the nation.

Those who take advantage of the offer will also have access to the “Members Only” section of the RWCS Web site with a temporary user id and password. When you log in, you will be able to access the hundreds of resources available to our members including: past newsletters, articles, Convention supplements, etc.

This offer has no gimmicks and no catches. Since a credit card number is not required for this free trial, trial membership will simply expire May 31, 2010 and you won’t need to call the Society to cancel.

“If you find value in the trial membership, we’d love for you to contact our office and join the RWCS as a primary member,” says RWCS Executive Director Stacy Wegner. “Annual primary membership costs $25 and includes a lot of great benefits, including the opportunity to buy our annual members only commemorative piece. But if you decide the RWCS isn’t for you, you can keep the newsletters as a gift and you owe us nothing.”

Other benefits of RWCS primary membership include free access to the RWCS video library of more than 200 educational presentations, the opportunity to attend the annual July Convention and February MidWinter events, and the ability meet and network with other members. As long as there’s at least one primary member in a household, associate memberships including all benefits except the newsletter are available for spouses, etc. for an additional $10 annually.

To sign up for this free trial offer, please visit the Free Trial Membership page on the RWCS Web site [HERE], call the RWCS Business Office at 800-977-7927 or e-mail your name and mailing address to trialmembership@redwingcollectors.org. Use promo code ATa1.

For more information about the Red Wing Collectors Society, please visit www.redwingcollectors.org.

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Antique Trader has gone wild

Karen — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:01:37 GMT

At least some of the features in our last issue have, anyway.

How's this for a fresh, fantastic look for Antique Trader?

Eric Bradley put together a wonderful package exploring the diversity and popularity of American wildlife art in the April 28 (cover date) issue of Antique Trader.

Click on the links below to start your exploration of American wildlife art.

• Collectors set their sights on American wildlife art

• Decoy market educating hobby’s future collectors

• Wildlife Art Museum celebrates Bodmer studies

• Sporting goods memorabilia sales thriving online

You may also be interested in "Decoy prices remain strong at auction"

As always, drop us a line and let us know what you think (at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com).

You can even send your ideas our way as to what you'd like to see in the pages of Antique Trader.

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Introducing the Collecting Insider

Karen — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 19:08:37 GMT

... formerly known as the VIP Club.

The Collecting Insider is your access to insider news, key information for identifying and determining the value of collectibles, a place to buy and sell antiques and collectibles, the source for exclusive savings on collector resources.

Antique Trader Publisher Dianne Wheeler says of the new program, "We are very excited to introduce this new savings opportunity to our Collectibles Family! At a time when money is tight and stress is abundant, it's great to be able to offer solid content and valuable information for your hobby — at a fraction of the retail price."

With your membership you get:

One-year (40 issues) U.S. subscription to Antique Trader (retail value $119.60)

One-year of online access to Collect.com with up-to-date pricing for tens of thousands of antiques and collectibles and a place to buy and sell your collectibles (retail value $39.98)

Downloadable online recorded seminar "How to Get a Certified Appraiser for Your Antiques" (retail value: $9.99) 10% off purchases made through Shop.Collect.com for one year

Downloadable resource "Successful Strategies for Buying and Selling Collectibles Online" (retail value $4.99) Plus, preferred access to special sales, early notification of new products at Shop.Collect.com, and exclusive savings from Antique Trader, Comics Buyer's Guide and Collect.com partnerships

The total value of this premiere package is $194.56, but when you join the Collectibles Insider you get these things and more for just $49.98. That's a savings of 74% and a deal you can't afford to pass up – sign up to become a Collecting Insider today!

The total value of all of these collecting resources is $194.56, but when you take your place as a Collecting Insider you get all of this and more for just $49.98. That's a savings of 74% on access to information you can use in every aspect of collecting.

Learn more about the Collecting Insider program

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Welcome to your new Antique Trader

Karen — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 15:20:27 GMT

Welcome to the new Antique Trader.

I hope we’ve prepared you for the new magazine format. A change this important is never easy but it is an important one for us, and, we think, for you. We have spearheaded this new era of Antique Trader with you and your needs and wants in mind.

The new size is evident — a svelte, new version of the tabloid that has been Antique Trader’s format for the last 10-odd years. In this week’s issue, we introduce you to a few new features that we hope you’ll like.

In response to calls for more pictures and prices, you’ll find a feature we call Top Lot. It’s a photo from a recent auction or online sale that touts a stunning antique or a record price. However, this isn’t a feature only reserved for auction houses. Show circuit dealers, group malls or shop owners are welcomed to submit a photo of a recent sale and its price to us for publication. This is a chance for hardworking dealers to pat themselves on the back and show that buyers are still buying and sellers are still selling.

All submissions should be sent to Top Lot c/o Antique Trader, 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945 or sent to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com. This week’s Top Lot is a $6,000 shaving mug sold by a budding new dealer in Seattle. You can read more HERE.

We have featured a number of guest columnists in the last year, but none have been more outrageous and downright funny than this week’s column by The Antique Crank. A longtime dealer, The Antique Crank has been “telling it like it is” on behalf of dealers on Twitter, the hot online social-networking site. The Antique Crank says things dealers sometimes wish they could say out loud. His tongue-in-cheek column is HERE.

For those of you who reminded me that many readers are not on Twitter or Facebook (or even own a computer in general), we have a fascinating story from auctioneer Wayne Jordan. His article [you can read it HERE] shows us that, like the owners of The Golden Gallery of Galax, Va., dealers can live on a different continent and still make a profitable living in antiques without being “wired.”

Let us know what you think of the new format and styles by sending a letter to the editor to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com.

CLICK HERE if you would like more information on subscribing to Antique Trader magazine.

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Hurry! This sale won't last long!

Karen — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 23:25:43 GMT

No Foolin! This offer ends at 11:59 p.m. EDT April 4, 2010.

CLICK HERE or on the coupon above to take advantage of the Spring Into Savings event and pick up all those antiques and collectibles books you've had your eye on.

Antique Trader gets facelift and a new resolve

Karen — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:24:46 GMT

Well, the time is finally here.

Since 1957, Antique Trader has undergone considerable changes for its readers and its advertisers. Since founder Ed Babka first started the magazine as the first nation-wide method to trade antiques, we have been innovating year after year.

For the last few months we’ve been hard at work retooling this magazine with you in mind. This week we give you a sneak peek at our new look. We think you’ll like what we have in store.

A new size

The dimensions of Antique Trader magazine will actually be similar to traditional magazines you see on your local newsstands. The new size will be 8 inches wide by 10 3/4 inches high. The new size also helps us fit our “magazine” moniker. Also, the new size no longer needs special handling in shipping and can now be bundled with standard-sized magazines for faster service. A sample of the cover is shown at right.

This new size provides multiple advantages for our readers and advertisers:

* Improved delivery time to both coasts
* Easier for distributors and mailers to handle, reducing problems and delays
* More color pages available for both advertising and editorial
* Page counts will increase

Features

Among the new and returning favorites:

Postcard Album by Barbara Andrews
Collecting Jewelry by Kathy Flood
Furniture Detective by Fred Taylor
Speaking of Dolls by Sherry Minton
Art Markets by Mary Manion
Ask AT by Anne Gilbert
Talking Toys by Justin Moen
Talking Sports by T.S. O’Connell

The antiques market is far more diverse now than when Antique Trader was launched in 1957. Our Web site is just as much an extension of our service to you as the magazine you now hold in your hands.

We will continue to build a strong bridge between the print edition and the site. Currently, the Web site has an archive of more than 2,000 feature articles and columns from our libraries. We share this trove for free and we’re constantly uploading more.

Our Web site is crucial to following the breaking news in the business. Nevertheless, we will still dedicate our most important information in our printed editions. Your loyalty to us is important and it is never absent from our minds as we plan coverage and new features.

To that end, you’ll see more prices realized. You may have already noticed that cover stories have been accompanied by boxes showing a range of prices for the featured antiques and collectibles.

These prices come from online auctions, brick and mortar sales and from traditioal auction houses. These prices show collectors and dealers a strong cross section of values for any given item.

We are developing a system at www.AntiqueTrader.com that will allow shops, dealers and auction houses to submit sales results. This will offer readers a broad view of what’s selling and for what prices.

We certainly hope you’ll enjoy your new magazine. Thank you to those who called in or sent suggestions by e-mail. It was a pleasure talking with you and we look forward to working with you to build a special publication.

— Eric Bradley

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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 very own subscription to Antique Trader HERE.

Vintage jewelry column scheduled for Antique Trader

Karen — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 14:21:35 GMT

We're making good headway with the Antique Trader redesign. You'll see these changes in the April 21 (cover date) issue. If you've been following us on Twitter, Facebook and in Antique Trader magazine itself, you know that that includes much more than just revamping the look of Antique Trader. We're revving up the content as well.

I think one of the most exciting changes is the new columnists ... one of whom is Kathy Flood, owner of several online jewelry shops and author of Warman's® Costume Jewelry Figurals and the most recent edition of Warman's® Jewelry, due out in July, among other titles. She will share her passion of antique and vintage jewelry with Antique Trader readers on a regular basis, as well as clue us in on the future of the markets.

In the past, when we've run jewelry features in the pages of Antique Trader, they've been very well received, telling us that there is a lot of interest out there for the vintage jewelry field.

After all, who doesn't walk a show floor and stop — arrested, if you will — by the sight of sparkling jewelry displays. You may not collect it, but you have to admit that antique jewelry is a sight to behold!

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Changing times call for a changed Antique Trader

Eric Bradley, editor — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 14:19:17 GMT

Redesigning a magazine is a lot like planning a large holiday dinner: It takes a lot of planning, you want to serve up your favorites, offer something fresh and everyone should be comfortable.

With a new era of the hobby upon us, collectors are looking for new ways to interact with their precious objects. Coming off a 25-year collecting binge, an increasing number of collectors are shifting into new lifestyles and downsizing their investments. The Internet has broken down any walls that remained to collecting and it’s changed how we embark on the most thrilling aspect of the hobby: the hunt. Collectors were quick to follow these changes. The result is a growing number of auction houses and a shrinking number of traditional mom-and-pop run antiques stores and shows.

So it’s appropriate that the trade magazine you read reflect these changes, not only in the news we report but also in the way we deliver the information to you each week and online. Here are some of the changes you can expect to see:

A new size – The dimensions of Antique Trader magazine will actually be similar to traditional magazines you see on your local newsstands. The new size will be 8 inches wide by 10 3/4 inches high. The new size also helps us fits our “magazine” moniker. Most importantly also helps us get the magazine nationwide much more quickly. The new size no longer needs special handling in shipping and can now be bundled with standard-sized magazines for faster service. A sample of the cover is shown at right using the March 17 cover story.

More pages – Average issues will have 50 percent more pages than before. We will also feature more color pages, which helps us show off unique items that can be adequately presented in full color.

Pictures and prices – Collectors are visual people who want to see new and interesting things. We will be adopting a “pictures and prices” philosophy that helps expose you to new discoveries, favorite finds and latest market prices.

Among the new features and returning favorites:

Postcard Album – Barbara Andrews has written for Antique Trader for more than 30 years. Her background in postcard collecting has made her one of the most popular columnists in the nation.

Collecting Jewelry –Author Kathy Flood will share her love of antique and vintage jewelry on a regular basis. The owner of an online antique jewelry shop, Flood will speak to the market for jewelry, popular styles and trends. She is the author of numerous books on the subject, most recent of which is Warman’s Jewelry, 4th Edition.

Speaking of Dolls – Sherry Minton’s monthly column is the only column that regularly reports the latest auction prices for dolls traded on the open market. Her pricing analysis puts her work second to none. She is president of three clubs belonging to the United Federation of Doll Clubs, Inc. She is a senior member of the American Society of Appraisers with a Designated Specialty in Dolls and Toys.

More research from new voices – You will see new voices and experts share what they’ve learned. From coin-ops to Moriage, we will offer you the latest knowledge by those who have collected or worked professionally in these areas.

Online sales results – Hundreds of items are traded online every minute on both auction sites and dealers’ new online shops. These results aren’t generally published, however, we are developing a system at www.AntiqueTrader.com that will allow dealers and auction houses to submit sales results. This will offer readers a broad view of what’s selling and for what prices.

No changes will be made to the number of issues you get each year. Thanks to a change in the production process, we will be delivering the new format two weeks earlier than we reported in the last issue. The new Antique Trader will start with the April 21 edition.

I’d love to hear what you want to see with this change. Drop me a note at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or call 800-726-9966, ext. 13233 and let’s talk.

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Collectors keep Quimper market vibrant

Karen — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:47:00 GMT

This week’s cover story on Quimper pottery illustrates what’s best about collectors.

Collectors are those people who, when they develop an affinity for a particular item, read and research everything there is on that topic. They stick with their appreciation no matter the obstacles. The hobby is more about personal enjoyment than it is about dollars and cents. So it is, evidently, with Quimper collectors. Chriss Swaney’s article shows demand is still strong for Quimper pieces even though skilled faience makers in France create new pieces every year.

Dealers say they are experiencing this demand at shows as well. Noted Quimper expert Joan Datesman told me that she continues to make her strongest sales and meet the most engaged customers at shows. Although the market is more sophisticated than it was 30 years ago, the market is still vibrant with new people inquiring about the pottery every month. She said many of these inquiries are from those who are just now inheriting collections; it will truly be exciting during the course of the next few years to see these fantastic items come to market.

On page 14 we highlight a spectacular family collection coming to market. The Tom Gray collection has the makings of becoming a part of North Carolina history. Every object in the sale has a personal story directly connected to Gray, his mother, cousin, great-uncle or the Moravians who settled in Forsyth County, N.C. The 560-lot sale is a rare opportunity for North Carolinians to enjoy their heritage on a new level.

Elsewhere in this issue, as seen on page 6, I was glad Anne Gilbert sent along a value on old barn cupolas. These structures are everywhere where we live and many are pretty additions. I have often wondered myself what the stately provincial additions would be worth on the open market. Now that everyone will know they can be worth up to $800 apiece, I wonder how many will stay on the tops of barns and how many will find a home inside an urban loft somewhere.

On page 18 we offer you a sneak preview of our newly-designed Antique Trader. The issue will offer more pages, more color photos and more coverage on online sales and auctions. We will be keeping many of our popular features and adding new ones, and I think you’ll really be pleased with the final result.

This week’s guest column by dealer/picker Doug Singleton is the last contribution to our coverage on The History Channel’s “American Pickers” show. Rumor has it that a second season has been ordered. Stay tuned.

Eric Bradley
Editor

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Antique Trader cover feature: A history of Steuben glass

Karen — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 01:49:10 GMT

Beautiful, isn't it?

CLICK HERE to read the cover feature: A history of Steuben glass

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Big changes to Antique Trader

Eric Bradley, editor — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 01:41:58 GMT

As all of our readers — be they collectors or dealers — have changed with the evolution of antiques trade, so have the publications that cover the hobby.

Our goal has always been to create a resource that is valuable and useful for all types of buyers and sellers. For the last few months we have been working behind the scenes to revamp and update Antique Trader into a publication that’s even more useful for antiques lovers. This includes a batch of new features, popular favorites, more pages, a new physical format and a closer association with our Web site for those of you on the go.

Did I mention more pages?

In the coming weeks we will introduce you to the new features and format, with the new Trader starting with the April 21 cover dated issue. Rest assured, all subscribers will continue to receive the same number of copies of the magazines each year. We just want to make them the best copies they can be.

I’d love to hear what you want to see with this change. Want more pictures and prices? More auction coverage? What do you need to be a better collector or dealer? Drop me a note at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com or call 800-726-9966, ext. 13233 and let’s talk.

We will, however, be making one change starting in the next issue. We will no longer be focusing on the North, East and West regions of the country. Instead we will concentrate more on photos, prices realized and shows. Once a month we will still focus on the South thanks to its popularity among readers.

American Pickers still a hot topic

In this issue we wind down the feedback from our March 3 cover story on The History Channel’s American Pickers television program. There is no doubt this show has struck a nerve. Next week’s issue will include a column by a professional picker who says there’s two sides to every transaction, but integrity looms large no matter what you’re selling.

We have a winner

A hearty congratulations is bestowed to Dennis Kluthe of Swansea, Ill., for winning the February Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes. Kluthe wins a four-volume set of hardcover books on historic postcards published by England’s Bodleian Library. The titles include Postcards from Utopia, Postcards of Lost Royals, Postcards from Checkpoint Charlie and Postcards of Political Icons. A special tip of the hat goes out to the thousands of people who entered for a chance to win. Thank you. The sweepstakes for March is for a copy of the newly updated Antique Trader Tools Price Guide, 3rd Edition by Clarence Blanchard, Krause Publications, 2010.

— Posted by Eric Bradley

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Chattanooga antiques market sees some promise

Eric Bradley, editor — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:10:56 GMT

I had the fortune to be interviewed by the Chattanooga Times Free Press last week for an article on the region's antiques trade. You can see the full article here. There is even a little audio on the definition of an antique.

The reporter, Tamara Best, did a great job in summarizing the businesses' ups and downs and even went the extra mile to add a few helpful hints from local shop owners and auctioneers. Some of the hints:

antique silver and oriental rugs are selling particularly well
utilize the Internet to sell
capitalize on social media
enhance their customer service, and
have a moderate rate of turnover

Each week I see more and more shop owners pop up on Facebook. This is a great way to generate some free publicity for your business.

What are some of the methods you are using to generate traffic, virtual or otherwise, into your shop? Feel free to share below.

-posted by Eric Bradley

Antique Trader goes out in the mail today

Karen — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:56:14 GMT

Here's a look at our most recent cover:

Looks great, doesn't it?! This week's Antique Trader is packed full of information: We've got feature articles on collecting antique tools, including grading guides and practical advice. There's also a great story covering Renninger's Florida antique show that was held last month ... and so much more! And it's headed to subscriber mailboxes today.

Here are links to some of the antiques articles:

• Antique tool collecting gets down to brass tacks

• Stanley tools establishes itself as a new subset of tool collecting

• Ask Antique Trader: Mother of pearl ‘Last Supper’ valued at $2,000

• Speaking of Dolls: After 100 years, Bleuette still attracting new fans

• Vendors, shoppers dodge freezing temps at Renninger’s

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Antiques can be a labor of love

Karen — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:25:53 GMT

Justin Peddycoart’s column on page 10 of this week's Antique Trader is an interesting example of one man’s quest to become his own “American picker.”

Peddycoart writes about how a six-month experiment to generate his $800 rent payment strictly through buying and selling antiques and collectibles found at thrift stores. He writes, comically, of the trials and errors and lessons learned and sums it up with the biggest lesson he learned: Sure it was tough, but the thrill of finding something cheap and selling it for more is ‘the best feeling in the world.’ [CLICK HERE to read the article.]

That’s one of the reason’s why HISTORY’s new show American Pickers is enjoying its success. We get to watch someone find valuable things. What gives the show its controversy is something the greater public may be taking for granted.

Thanks to the explosion of antiques related media in the last decade (eBay, PBS’s Antiques Roadshow, trade papers disseminating free articles online) the collecting public and the average gawker is more educated than they’ve ever been. More people now know the value of their antiques and collectibles, which, in turn, can make it more difficult for the average dealer to make purchases that deliver a living wage.

Granted, it was hard to watch the first episode of American Pickers – in which the dealers walked away with a trove of finds for pennies on the dollar – future episodes show a more normal day-to-day existence for the average antiques dealer.

[CLICK HERE to read Antique Trader's feature on American Pickers]

[CLICK HERE to read the first batch of reader responses to our question of the week: "Do you think 'American Pickers' helps or hurts the antiques business?"]

It made the antiques business seem much easier than it is. Just ask Peddycoart. Although he said ‘thrifting’ for his rent was fun, he admits it is very difficult work.

One last similarity between Peddycoart’s experience and American Pickers is their self reliance. Peddycoart says he now lives with a peace of mind that if ever in a pinch for funds, he can turn to buying and selling to make ends meet.

I’d encourage you to share it with a young person in your life.

Speaking of Antiques Roadshow: The show’s producer, WGBH Boston, is holding an open call allowing amateur and independent filmmakers to submit a short film about an antique or family heirloom that holds some significant resonance to them.

This is a great opportunity for serious filmmakers interested in gaining exposure as final shorts could potentially be broadcast on WGBH and PBS stations around the country. Entries must be no longer than two minutes and can be submitted until June 1 through www.wgbh.org/lab.

Three winners will be rewarded with a pair of tickets to a live taping this summer.

— Eric Bradley

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Share your ‘secrets to success’

Karen — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:58:13 GMT

A wonderful, thought-provoking letter crossed my desk the other morning. It was in response to last issue’s regional focus story on Affordable Antiques of Naperville, Ill. [CLICK HERE to read the full article.] The writer liked the article but felt it was missing a few key points that are working for his business.

The author is Ron Curtis, owner of the Antiques & Collectibles Marketplace of Sacramento, Calif. He talks about how aspects such as location, dedication and reasonable rents are all vital contributors to a successful business.

However, Curtis brings up the subject of the importance of an active Web site. He does not use eBay for his sales. The sales are all driven through his own business site. How much? He says up to half of his business is conducted online.

That’s right. Half.

“We have 1,200 dolls on our Web site and are the last doll shop in Sacramento, with nine closing over the last 10 years, as they didn’t have a Web site,” he writes.

Curtis’ full letter will be published in a future issue. Until then, visit his Web site to see how it is organized and why it’s encouraging people to buy. You can find it at www.tace.com/ada.

Do you have a secret to success that helps you build a better collection or a better business? Please consider sharing by sending to the addresses below.
Welcome back Barbara

On page 10 we welcome the return of Barbara Andrews, author of the “Postcard Album” column. Barbara is back after a several month hiatus as she finished a new book. Believe me, you noticed. I received many letters from readers missing Barbara’s thoughtful columns. We’re glad to have her back. [CLICK HERE to read her most recent postcard column.]

Congrats!

Barbara Andersen of Brooksville, Fla., is the lucky winner of the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes for January. She wins a new copy of Antiques Roadshow Behind the Scenes An Insider’s Guide to PBS’s #1 Weekly Show by producer Marsha Bemko.

Be sure to enter our February sweepstakes online for a chance to win a four-volume set of collectible postcard books from Bodleian Library of Oxford, England. The hardback set is an $80 value and includes Postcards of Lost Royals, Postcards from Utopia, Postcards from Checkpoint Charlie and Postcards of Political Icons.

— Eric Bradley

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Question of the Week: What do you think of American Pickers?

Karen — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:40:45 GMT

Eric Bradley wrote our cover feature this week on American Pickers.

CLICK HERE to read the article.

Is the public ready to watch how the antiques business really works? From what we've seen and heard, people either love it or hate it ... how about you? What do you think?

"Do you think the show American Pickers helps or hurts the antiques business?"

Replies may be sent to eric.bradley@fwmedia.com, or post a reply right here on the Antique Trader blog.

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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New Antique Trader Sweepstakes Launched Feb. 1

Karen — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:41:38 GMT

I turned the calendar page this morning, which triggered a reminder for us to launch our February edition of the Antique Trader Treasure Hunt Sweepstakes.

We've got a fantastic prize for the February sweepstakes. Something that I absolutely KNOW our postcard enthusiast readers are going to LOVE.

What we're giving away to the lucky winner is a set of four hardcover postcard books published by Oxford University's Bodleian Library. Titles in the prize package include: Postcards from Checkpoint Charlie – Images of the Berlin Wall; Postcards of Lost Royals; Postcards from Utopia – The Art of Political Propaganda; and Postcards of Political Icons – Leaders of the Twentieth Century.

Each book has a cover price of $20, making the total prize package worth $80.

We'll be putting reminders to enter in each of our e-newsletters, but make sure you come back to http://sweepstakes.antiquetrader.com to enter each day for your best chance to win!

(Review Sweepstakes Rules)

— Posted by Karen Knapstein

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Don't miss the antique auction news

Karen — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:21:17 GMT

Here are some quick hits for upcoming estate and antique auctions and highlights of recent auctions:

February multi-estate sale will offer desirable stoneware, antiques, jewelry

Unique writing instruments to be offered during event dedicated to Montblanc - I know it's not an antique or estate auction, but as far as collectibles go, there are no finer writing instruments than these. They are absolutely stunning. I consider them art, in an unusual medium.

Affordable, entry-level collectibles spotlighted in latest Collect.com auction - Roughly one-third of the auction’s lots have budget-friendly minimum bids of $25 or less, including a collection of Ford Dealership sales brochures from the 1960s and 1970s.

Recently discovered Col. John S. Mosby Civil War speech in Los Angeles auction

Diverse offerings and buyer’s market will entice participants at Hatch auction - It's so exciting to have antiques from so many different categories offered in one auction ...

Thomaston Place sale offers diverse collections - another auction with so very much to offer!

Unusual, seldom-offered figural redware in Jan. sale - Crocker Farm auctions are always interesting.

Fascinating highlight of technological auction: Final sale of Remington Typewriter Museum draws worldwide interest

— 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 telephones/museum needs new home

Karen — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 20:19:25 GMT

That's what our cover story is about this week.

Here's a look at the newest Antique Trader cover. What do you think?

It was sent out in the mail today.

CLICK HERE to read the "Calling for help" article.

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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 Trader has two cover features this week

Karen — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 22:57:33 GMT

The first feature we have is on funky and functional vintage aprons. A trendy sensation: Vintage aprons inspire a generation by Geets Vincent.

The second is on vintage magazines and the political cartoons therein, which are just as relevant today as they were 70+ years ago. Political cartoons predict the future by Suzanne Meredith.

As always, feel free to let us know what you think!

— 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.

Finding a new way to succeed

Karen — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 21:11:45 GMT

As I was reading the news the other day, an article piqued my interest: top ten interior design predictions 2010.

Normally, I don’t put much stock in articles like this. After all, aren’t we the ones always telling readers to avoid trends and “buy what you like,” “save for the best” and “research before you buy”? On the other hand, this article, published in the San Francisco Chronicle, made it a point to single out antiques and collectibles in four of the ten predictions.

The article says people will be making a move toward the natural patina of woods, metals and other materials: “We don’t even mind a water mark or hint of rust.” Gasp! Who knew all you phonograph collectors out there were so trendy?

Texture will be important with recycled glass candle holders as an example of something unique for the home. These same experts go on to tell us to display our antique or vintage souvenirs proudly. I wonder if my dead starfish suspended in a glass snow globe filled with seashells counts?

Coming in at no. 5 is the observation that antiques are plentiful and priced for every budget. “Antiques and vintage pieces add soul to any space,” interior designer Jay Jeffers was quoted. Now there’s a trend we can see lasting well beyond 2010.

Never give up

On page 19, Alan Petrillo tells of new reasons why antiques dealers shouldn’t give up the ship. Despite a devastating decade for the small-town antiques merchant, many out West are going back to school and learning the ethical, accepted methods of appraising an estate. They say the need will only grow in the next few decades.

This is a serious change for dealers. Although they have always been asked to give appraisals, becoming an actual appraiser is a huge difference. It means career long testing and continuing education. For many dealers, the change also means the switch from a more active career to one that can be tedious – a major change after decades in the business. Thankfully, the marketplace is making the switch worthwhile. It appears appraisers are earning between $100 and $300 an hour, depending on the number of items to be examined.

The dealer’s perspectives explain the costs and benefits of sticking with an industry despite the challenges. For those out there who still “keep on keeping on,” perhaps it’s time to look for a new way to succeed.

Eric Bradley
Editor

A correction: In the Jan. 20 issue, the location of Jackson’s International Auctioneers and Appraisers was incorrect. The firm is based in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Antique Trader regrets the error.

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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.

Jackson's International knows the key to success

Karen — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 17:27:48 GMT

and they share it in this week's issue of Antique Trader.

CLICK HERE to read this uplifting article.

— 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.

Antiques news you won't want to miss

Karen — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 23:44:00 GMT

Click on the links below to read the articles:

Red Baron’s three-day fall auction a success

Dealers from 12 states to attend Antiques in Charlottesville

Audubon’s ‘Birds of America’ folio brings $272,000

Art Deco and Modernism light up San Francisco

Worthpoint, Heritage Auctions announce mobile phone applications

Original Frederick Remington plaster model will be sold in January auction

Archive of cigar label proofs among top lots in Dec. 3 map, ephemera sale

Carved box that consignor used for storage realizes $26,450 in Thanksgiving sale

Jumeau doll found in the Midwest brings $37,375

Visit www.antiquetrader.com for more news and features.

— 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.

Wunderkammer on the cover

Karen — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:44:02 GMT

"What's a Wunderkammer?" you ask ... why, it's a "chamber of wonders." And we've got a fantastic feature from Melody Amsel-Arieli on the cover of this week's Antique Trader.

CLICK HERE to read The Wunderkammer: Curiosity cabinets were the birth of modern museums

Drop us a line here on the blog, in the forums, or at eric.bradley@fwmedia.com and let us know what you think ...

— 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.

It really is in the mail today ...

Karen — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:34:35 GMT

... the newest edition of Antique Trader, that is.

Here's a look at the cover:

It looks great, doesn't it? And it's packed with antique news and features, too!

Visit www.antiquetrader.com for your antiques news fix.

Inaugural Baltimore Big Flea draws the crowds

Original York Antiques Show & Sale returns in January

Record number of bidders take part in poster sale

Japanese toys gross $700K in November auction

Rare diamond brings eight figures at Christie’s auction

Glass museum launches drive to clear mortgage

“American Pickers” coming to television

Art restoration company reveals $300K Duncanson painting

Greater Charlotte Show sells to Lydia Sullivan

Tiffany on Display: Colorado collector shares his passion with the world

... that's a lot of news, isn't it?! And that's not all of it, either!

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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.

Free download of Antique Trader Winter Traveler available

Karen — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:03:32 GMT

Hot off the production line, the new Antique Trader Winter Traveler has been uploaded to our site and is ready for all of you to download.

The Winter Traveler is a 24-page PDF with stories on antiquing destinations throughout the United States.

Some of the articles include pieces on the Scott Antique Markets, the Tucson Gem Shows, department store displays at the Smithsonian, and timepiece and Americana displays at the National Heritage Museum.

All of the links have been made "live," so all you have to do is click on the URL or ad and you will be taken to the respective Web site.

What an easy way to find out more about antique shows, malls, museum exhibits, and more ... they are just a click away!

CLICK HERE or on the cover image above to download the Antique Trader Winter Traveler.

— 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.

Do you collect a family namesake?

Karen — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:41:50 GMT

Here's the cover for the latest issue of Antique Trader, which hits the mail for subscribers today. (Click on the cover to visit AntiqueTrader.com)

What do you think? The cover feature is a subject near and dear to my heart :) ... now we'd like to hear your collecting story ...

Do you collect a family namesake?

If you’d like to share your story behind your own family-based collection, please send your story to editor Eric Bradley at 700 E. State St., Iola, WI 54945 or eric.bradley@fwmedia.com. Your story may be published in an upcoming issue.

— 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.

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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• 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.

Collect.com/Antique Trader's conference "Depression Glass" Nov. 5

Karen — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 01:24:18 GMT

Collect.com and Antique Trader are teaming up to produce an online conference on Depression Glass. Hosted by expert Ellen Schroy, the conference is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST Nov. 5.

"Once a popular prize found in oatmeal boxes, and used by movie houses and gas stations as a free gift with purchase, the history of Depression glass is as diverse as the pieces themselves. Learn the history behind the companies, commonly reproduced patterns and why the hobby of Depression Glass collecting is getting bigger every year."

Schroy is the nationally known author of Warman's Depression Glass, 5th edition. She has been the longtime editor of Warman's Antiques & Collectibles, Warman's Depression Glass and numerous other antiques and collectables books. In addition to serving as an appraiser at antiques events, Schroy frequently appears on radio shows across the USA.

Click here to register.

Here it is: Your free fall traveler

Karen — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:10:32 GMT

The brand-new Antique Trader Fall Traveler, a quarterly supplement to Antique Trader magazine, has just been posted on AntiqueTrader.com at http://www.antiquetrader.com/traveler.

Here's a peek at the cover:

Inside this free, full-color 32-page PDF download you'll find news and features on some wonderful antiques destinations.

So visit http://www.antiquetrader.com/traveler and download your free copy today.

Be sure to pass the link along to all your friends ... they'll be glad you did!

dmg world media sells AntiqueWeek, three others in deal finalized late last week

Karen — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:30:27 GMT

KNIGHTSTOWN, Ind. – In a deal finalized late last week, dmg world media sold its Knightstown, Ind., publications, including its flagship antiques and collectibles newspaper AntiqueWeek. Included in the sale are publications AntiqueWest, The Auction Exchange and Collectors News and Farm World, billed as “the largest farm newspaper in the Midwest.”

The new owner is MidCountry Media, Inc., which has ties to the Mayhill family who founded AntiqueWeek in 1968 and sold it along with its other titles to dmg in 2000. dmg world media is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc, one of the largest and media companies in the United Kingdom.

Talks of a sale surfaced in October 2008 when employees were informed the Indiana titles were under contract to be sold. Since then, dmg has steadily sold segments of its antiques and collectibles businesses.

It sold the London-based newspaper Antiques Trade Gazette in October 2008. In June it sold four of the biggest antiques and collectors' fairs in the UK. In July, dmg sold back the Florida show known as “Palm Beach - America's International Fine Art & Antiques Fair” to its original owners, the Lester family.

In the case of Antiques Trade Gazette, it was employees who purchased the publication. The UK fairs (Newark, Ardingly, Shepton Mallet and Detling) are owned by a group, which includes a former dmg executive who oversaw the original acquisition in 1994.

AntiqueWeek is a national publication with The Auction Exchange and Collectors News focuses on the Great Lakes region and AntiqueWest focuses on the West Coast.

dmg owns The Avignon (France) International Trade Fair, The Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, The Miami Beach Antique Jewelry & Watch Show, The New York Antique Jewelry and Watch Show, The Original Miami Beach Antique Show and the The Washington DC Antique, Art and Jewelry Show, which debuts Oct. 15-18.

dmg also publishes more than 40 related magazines, newspapers, directories and market reports and employs 700 people worldwide.

-posted by Eric Bradley

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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 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.