Antiques, Collectibles, & Memorabilia: Do You Know the Difference?

The world of antiques can be confusing. What's the difference between an antique and collectible? Aren't collectibles and memorabilia really the same thing? In this month's column, I'll de-mystify these terms, so that you'll be appropriately armed for your next antique adventure.

Antique

Basically, an antique is something old that has value because of aesthetic or historical reasons. Generally, if a piece is over 100 years old, it is considered an antique. Although, I do know that some people use the 50-year mark for Canadian pieces; the rationale being that Canada is a young country relative to places such as Europe and Asia. However, I'm old fashioned and apply the 100-year definition to Canadian pieces.

Collectible

A collectible is something that is less than 100 years old that has value because of aesthetic or historical reasons. This term fills the gap for valuables that aren't quite old enough to be an antique.

One category of collectible is items with intrinsic artistic merit. A stunning Art Deco table fits into this category. It was beautiful when it was made in the 1930s, is beautiful today and will still be beautiful when it hits the 100-year old mark.

A second category is mass-produced collectibles. Beanie Babies, trading cards and Hummel figurines fit into this category. They don't necessarily have a lot of artistic merit. But manufacturers have created desirability by producing limited editions.

Another category is items associated with particular people. For example, anything worn by the Beatles or Elvis Presley is collectible.

Memorabilia

There is a difference between collectibles and memorabilia. Collectibles are things that are ornamental. They never served an utilitarian purpose. A piece of memorabilia served a particular purpose. Movie posters, sports programs, cameras, television sets and musical instruments are all examples of items that fall into this category. Movie posters were used to sell movies. Sports programs were used to communicate information. And, cameras, television sets and musical instruments all serve a function.

Martin Swinton owns Take-A-Boo Emporium located in Toronto, Canada. He has appeared on a variety of television programs; does furniture restoration; caning and rushing repairs; appraisals and has taught courses on antiques at the Learning Annex. Martin can be reached at http://www.takeaboo.com

---

A Look at Woven Wood Blinds

Woven wood shades, also known as bamboo shades, are a... Read More

Where to Buy Wholesale Picnic Baskets

Perhaps you are a vendor who would like to begin... Read More

Wood Mini Blinds

Wood blinds offer nature's rich, subtle colors and unique textures.... Read More

The Benefits of Goose Down Comforters

It's a safe bet that you've never heard a goose... Read More

A Look at Bathroom Vanity Mirrors

Bathroom Vanity Mirrors are an integral component of the bathroom... Read More

A Guide to Wine Racks

It is a cliché that wines get better with age.... Read More

Whats Your Design Sign?

If you've been consistently bewildered about how to make your... Read More

Magic Carpet Ride?

There are hundreds of choices carpet choices out there! How... Read More

The Function of Wine Storage Racks

Storing wines is crucial to keeping wines flavor and letting... Read More

Ceiling Fan Blades

The blades of a ceiling fan make all the difference.... Read More

The Benefits of Ozone Air Purifiers

Ozone air purifiers or "ozone generators" are known for their... Read More

An Upholstered Bench To Incorporate Style and Function

How do you envision your dream home? Is it rich... Read More

About Pine Needle Baskets and How to Use Them in Your Home Decor

Have you ever had the pleasure of strolling through a... Read More

Not All Glass is Created Equal

Pressed glass, Depression glass and crystal - this month we'll... Read More

Building Your Own Grandfather Clock

Timeless and elegant, classic and stately-grandfather clocks are all of... Read More

Create the Right Splash With Bathroom Accessories

When decorating your bathroom, it is important to choose practical... Read More

The Cost of Granite Countertops

The beauty, hardness and utility of granite makes it a... Read More

Summer Every Season

Ahhh, the sumptuous days of summer. Clear skies, green lawns,... Read More

A Look at Cuckoo Clock Movement

The inside mechanics of cuckoo clocks maintain virtually the same... Read More

The Benefits of Metal Wine Racks

The number of metal wine racks available may seem overwhelming,... Read More

A Look at Fruit Gift Baskets

The original, the granddaddy of all of today's items bought... Read More

Using Color To Change The Size Of Your Bedroom

Did you ever wish your bedroom was bigger or smaller?... Read More

Japanese Sword: A Great Piece for Any Home

A Japanese Sword is a wonderful decoration to add to... Read More

Putting Passion Back Into Home Decorating

For most people, they can count the times they redecorate... Read More

Grandfather Clock Repair

A well-made grandfather clock is an heirloom piece, designed to... Read More

Have You Considered These Space-Saving Bed Designs To Maximize Your Interior Decorating Space?

Vertical and functional space planning are two of the most... Read More

Wine Rack Kits and Plans

Properly storing wine keeps flavor and lets wine age so... Read More

Where to Find Discount Wedgwood China

There is not a lot of discount Wedgwood China available,... Read More

Summer Decorating Tips To Cool You

Redesigning your home for summer gives you the opportunity to... Read More

Reasons to Consider a Professional Designer for Your Interior Decorating Project

When one is considering a new look for an existing... Read More

An Introduction to Wood Stoves

Wood stoves are like small fireplaces. They are inexpensive and... Read More

Home Decorating For Smaller Spaces

"Big Things Come In Small Packages" We're all familiar with... Read More

Decorating on a Shoestring Budget

Right now one of the most popular shows on television... Read More