Collecting Vintage and Antique Postcards

Posted on October 30, 2023 by Old and New Shop

If the goal of antiquing is to own a window into the past, old postcards might be considered the ultimate antique. Antique postcards offer glimpses of times and people long past, through the images and handwritten notes that grace these pieces of paper. Postcards simply offer an unparalleled window into the past that few other kinds of antique collectibles can match. Deltiology, the study and collection of postcards is, for this reason, a particularly rewarding antiquing discipline. Additionally, the variety, abundance, and relative affordability of antique postcards also make deltiology a uniquely accessible branch of antiquing. However, under the right circumstances particular postcards or postcard collections can also be very valuable. Today the experts at the Old & New Shop will tell you everything you need to know about collecting vintage and antique postcards.

History of Postcards

The invention of the printing press allowed for the popularization of visiting cards, bill heads, and writing paper with mass-produced illustrations but postcards as we know them today did not emerge until the 1860s.

Postal reforms in the UK and the US allowed for the spread of postcards in the English-speaking world. In 1840, the UK unified the cost of domestic mail delivery to 1 penny per envelope, through the issuing of the world’s first stamp “The Penny Black.” At the same time, British post offices began selling letter sheets decorated with imperial British iconography, but the product was unpopular and soon discontinued. In 1861, the US passed a law allowing privately printed cards to be sent in the mail, setting the stage for the eventual popularization of postcards here. Austria-Hungary introduced the world’s first postcards on October 1st, 1869. These Austro-Hungarian postcards called “Correspondenz-Karte” cost half the price of a normal letter, and were a light-brown 8.5x12cm rectangle, with room for the address on the front and a short message on the back.

In the 1880s, most postcards were printed with small sketches called vignettes on the message side, at first only in black and white. However, here in the US, many “private mailing cards” were blank on one side, so that a message could be included with the other side being reserved for the address. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, the US government enforced many restrictions on postcards, only allowing the word “postal card” to be used on government cards until 1901 and not allowing addresses and messages to share the same side of a postcard until 1907. Chicago’s 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition brought with it, the idea of souvenir postcards in the US, when Charles Goldsmith produced a wildly popular series of color postcards depicting the pavilions.

By 1901, many postcards were being sent from various locales throughout the US, without even including messages. The practice of sending postcards without messages declined after 1907 when Congress legalized addresses and messages sharing the same side of a postcard. The change ushered in the Golden Age of Postcards between 1907 and 1915. Over 700 million postcards were mailed within the US in 1908, and that number reached 900 million by 1913. The popularity of postcards in the US and UK declined by WW1, leading American publishers to embrace cost-cutting measures, like white borders (1915), linen material (1930), and photochrom material (1945). Today these evolutions can help collectors determine the era from which their postcards originate.

Vintage and Antique Postcard Collecting Tips

Consider focusing your postcard collection around a specific theme, like your home state, a favorite animal species, US National Parks, European cities, early 20th-century celebrities, natural disasters, or another topic that connects with you.
The value of antique and vintage postcards is affected by many factors but demand, condition, and rarity often have the greatest influence on the monetary value of a postcard. Older postcards, more sought after by collectors, rarer, and in good condition are more valuable than postcards that do not fit these qualities.
Topographical cards, postcards that feature a specific geographic location, can be split into two categories: photographic postcards and illustrated postcards. Postcards with actual photography tend to be rarer than photo cards with drawings, so they are on average, more valuable.
However, topographical postcards as a group, are on average, more valuable than subject cards or topicals, which are postcards featuring a wide range of topics like celebrities, major events, children, comics, shipping, novelty, railways, glamour, and more. Subject cards are typically less sought after by collectors than topographical postcards, leaving them with a lower value. If you want to determine the value of a topical postcard the popularity of the specific artist who created the image on that card is much more important than with topographical postcards. The condition of topicals has a larger impact on value than with topographical postcards because the community of collectors is smaller.
Postcards written and signed by significant historical figures or celebrities can, of course, be very valuable.
All postcards can have aesthetic and sentimental value, but most postcards produced later than the 1960s currently have little monetary value.
You can determine the age of a postcard by looking back at any dates written on the postcards, the postage, the materials a card is made of, the location and subject manner of any images, and numerous other factors. However, it is always best to get your postcards professionally appraised to determine their age and monetary value, especially if you are considering selling a postcard or purchasing a postcard for a large amount of money.
You can find vintage and antique postcards in many locations, including the usual places where you can typically find antiques, like antique shops, tag sales, thrift stores, and the attics of elderly relatives. However, you can also find antique and vintage postcards at shows, online stores, and club meetings dedicated to old postcards.

Old & New Shop

If you want your antique postcard collection (or any other antiques) appraised, call the Old & New Shop today!

Antique Trends: Blending Past and Present

Posted on July 31, 2023 by Old and New Shop

In the realm of interior design and collectibles, antique trends have always fascinated enthusiasts and design aficionados. As we progress through 2023, a wave of antique trends has emerged, combining the beauty of the past with the allure of the present. Many trendy pieces can be found by researching, learning, and shopping at reputable antique dealers like the Old & New Shop.

Current Trends

Sustainability and Conscious Consumption
One of the prevailing themes in 2023’s antique trends is sustainability and conscious consumption. With increasing awareness of the environmental impact, people are turning to antique pieces as a way to reduce waste and promote a circular economy. By repurposing and reusing vintage items, individuals are not only preserving history but also adding a unique charm to their spaces.

Art Deco Revival
The timeless elegance of the Art Deco movement experienced a revival in 2023. This iconic design style from the 1920s and 1930s has captivated the imagination of interior designers and antique collectors alike. Bold geometric patterns, luxurious materials, and sleek lines define this trend. From furniture to lighting fixtures, Art Deco pieces effortlessly infuse spaces with glamour and sophistication while blending the past and present.

Mid-Century Modern Magic
Mid-Century Modern continues to hold its reign as a prominent antique trend in 2023. Known for its clean lines, organic forms, and functional designs, this aesthetic exudes timeless appeal. Vintage furniture from the 1950s and 1960s, such as Eames chairs or Danish teak sideboards, have become coveted pieces that seamlessly integrate into contemporary spaces. The blend of minimalism and warmth characteristic of Mid-Century Modern designs creates an inviting ambiance.

Statement Lighting
Lighting has become an integral part of interior design, and antique lighting fixtures are making a strong statement in 2023. From elegant chandeliers to unique floor lamps, these vintage pieces provide a touch of grandeur and uniqueness to any space. Restored antique lighting fixtures not only illuminate a room but also serve as conversation starters and focal points.

Eclectic Mixes and Personalization
The rise of eclectic mixes and personalized spaces has given antique trends a new dimension. People are no longer confined to one specific era or style; instead, they are freely blending antique pieces from different periods to create one-of-a-kind interiors. A Victorian chair might sit alongside a mid-century side table, and a vintage rug might anchor a contemporary living room. This trend celebrates individuality and creativity, allowing for truly unique and personal spaces. Personalized preferences are certainly an example of antique trends mixing the past and present.

Antique Trends: Blending Past and Present

As 2023 progresses, antique trends are captivating interior design enthusiasts with their sustainability, elegance, and charm. From the revival of Art Deco to the continued popularity of Mid-Century Modern, these trends showcase the enduring appeal of vintage pieces in contemporary spaces. Beautiful and trendy pieces can be found by visiting reputable dealers like experts at the Old & New Shop. By embracing antique trends, individuals can create spaces that tell stories and reflect their unique personalities.

Missing American Artifacts

Posted on June 30, 2023 by Old and New Shop

The exciting thing about antiquing is the thrill of finding a piece of the past to call your very own. But some pieces are a lot more valuable and important than others. Sometimes true treasures and priceless historical artifacts slip through the cracks and end up out in the world where any antiquer can find them.

Four Dollar Frame

Sometimes artifacts can be found by happenstance. For instance, in 1991 a man bought a thrift store painting for four dollars because he liked the frame. When he opened up the frame he found a copy of the Declaration of Independence printed in 1776 that later sold at auction for seven million dollars. We cannot promise that you will be that lucky when you come and shop with us at the Old & New Shop or elsewhere on your antiquing journey. However, just in case, there are a few missing national treasures that you should be keeping an eye out for as an antiquer.

Stolen from The National Archives

One major way that historic artifacts become lost to time is theft. The National Archives in DC, for example, has had many of its priceless records and artifacts stolen over the years and maintains a website dedicated to educating the public about what’s missing. The missing documents include numerous letters, and pardons documents signed by presidents George Washington, John Adams, Ulysses S. Grant, Abraham Lincoln, and more. Other presidential artifacts currently missing include FDR’s official painted portrait, LBJ’s class ring, and several swords bejeweled with precious gems gifted from the Saudi royal family to Truman. However, perhaps the most significant artifacts stolen from the National Archives are some of the original maps used during the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of WW2. It is likely that they were stolen for sale on the black market but it is very possible that you may come across them while antiquing.

Other Missing American Artifacts

Some irreplaceable and historic artifacts never made it to the National Archives or any other museums or archives. The Declaration of Rights and Sentiments, also known as the Seneca Falls Declaration or simply The Declaration of Sentiments, is one example. The document started the American woman’s rights movement and nobody knows what happened to it. The original copy, signed at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, Frederick Douglass, and 97 other women’s rights pioneers, has been lost to history. The Declaration borrowed the language of the Declaration of Independence to declare that “We hold these truths to be self-evident; that all men and women are created equal.” The Obama administration launched an effort to find The Declaration of Rights and Sentiments and compared their efforts to the National Treasure franchise but their nationwide search was unsuccessful. Antique collectors may have more luck. Sometimes a shopper is just in the right place at the right time and successfully runs across this national treasure.

Missing American Artifacts – Pop Culture

Not all of America’s missing historic artifacts involve presidents, wars, or suffragettes. Many involve America’s artistic heritage and the missing pieces of cinematic history are among the most interesting. In the early days of Hollywood, most movie props were simply repurposed, thrown out, or burned after shooting. In the 1970s MGM started auctioning off movie props to private collectors exposing the lucrative money-making opportunity of the collectors markets. Today movie and TV props from popular works are often held in private collections and even museums. However, even in recent years valuable props are put out on the open market, thrown away, or even stolen. This means that keen antiquers and collectors can make money or lifelong memories by snatching up the right prop. Many stolen and missing film props could be in a local antique shop. For instance, of the four known surviving pairs of ruby slippers worn in The Wizard of Oz one pair was stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in 2005 and the museum has offered a $1,000,000 reward for information on its whereabouts. Other valuable collectibles missing include the suit from Iron Man, the map from Goonies, and costumes from the original Star Trek series.

Antique and Vintage Finds

Shopping for antiques, vintage and retro collectibles can be exciting, and finding a valuable missing American antique would be even better! But for most antiquers, it’s best to practice and love antiquing for its own sake. You may not find a multi-million dollar artifact, but you can definitely find beautiful and unique items that link us to our collective past. You can definitely find a piece of the past that you and your family can cherish and call your very own. If you do find an antique item you believe to be valuable you can have it appraised at the Old & New Shop.

Learning About Antiques

Posted on March 30, 2023 by Old and New Shop

If you have ever considered adding antiques to your home, but weren’t sure where to start, a little knowledge can go a long way. Antique collecting doesn’t have to be scary or costly.

The key to collecting is deciding what you love. There are so many choices from popular items like antique jewelry and furniture to order collectibles like vacuum cleaners! Depending on your preferences, you may want to consider vintage pieces as well. There may be a particular era you like or maybe, for example, items you prefer that are decorative or possibly functional. Once you’ve determined where your interests lie, decide what you plan to do with your collection. Some collectors prefer to display their antiques while others want useful pieces like Wedgwood tableware.

Where to Begin

Before you purchase anything, do some research and gather helpful information. Here are seven different activities that you can do to learn more about antiques and vintage items:

Visit museums: One of the best ways to learn about antiques is to visit museums that feature collections of antiques. Many museums have exhibits that showcase the history and development of antiques, including furniture, paintings, ceramics, and textiles. Knowing an artisan and the timeline helps you to appreciate an item’s value.
Attend antique shows and auctions: Antique shows and auctions are great places to see a wide variety of antiques and learn about their value. You can observe how auctions work, listen to expert appraisals, and ask questions of the dealers.
Read books and magazines: There are many books and magazines that cover antiques, including price guides, identification guides, and historical overviews. Reading these materials will help you develop an understanding of different types of antiques and their value.
Watch online videos: YouTube and other video-sharing platforms have a wealth of informative and entertaining videos about antiques, from interviews with collectors to instructional videos on how to restore antique items.
Take a class: Many communities offer classes on antiques and collecting, taught by knowledgeable instructors who can provide hands-on instruction on how to identify and value antiques.
Join an antique club or society: Joining an antique club or society is a great way to connect with other collectors and enthusiasts. These groups often host meetings, lectures, and field trips that can deepen your knowledge and appreciation of antiques.
Start collecting: Finally, the best way to learn about antiques is to start collecting them yourself! Start small, and focus on a particular area that interests you. Learn as much as you can about the pieces you’re collecting, and enjoy the process of discovering new treasures.

Go Shop

Once you have done your research, you can start to shop! Here are some helpful hints for beginners:

Starting with a local flea market which is less intimidating for a beginner collector. It will also be easier to make comparisons.
Ask lots of questions. Most dealers are happy to answer any questions. They may also have a lot of knowledge about a particular piece or era you like.
Start small. In other words, if you’re interested in Victorian furniture, for example, start with a vase from that period instead.
Imperfection is ok. In most cases, an antique will not be in mint condition, but its imperfections should be somewhat reasonable.
Consult a shopping guide. Read up on antiquing etiquette, preparation, and authenticity.

Learning About Antiques

The most important thing about learning and shopping for antiques and vintage collectibles is to enjoy yourself! Visiting shops and markets is an enjoyable experience even if you don’t purchase anything. Shops like the Old & New Shop are great places to start your antiquing!

Robert Schmidt is the longtime proprietor of the Old & New Shop in Queens, New York. His business is a second-generation family-owned and operated company with over 40 years of knowledge and experience in antiques.

Attic Treasures

Posted on February 28, 2023 by Old and New Shop

In December 2020, David Whitcomb bought a house in Geneva, New York. He intended to use the first two floors of the building for his law offices, and the third floor for apartment space. The top floor needed work, so he and a friend started construction. They noticed floorboards in the ceiling and realized there was an attic. Whitcomb had no idea that the newly purchased house had an attic full of treasure because it wasn’t in the paperwork.

Finding Treasure

Whitcomb, upon discovering the attic, didn’t think much of the photos and portraits he found. But, one day he decided to explore a bit more and eventually found that the attic was a photography studio used by a photographer named James Ellery Hale. Hale is renowned for shooting portraits of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Smith Miller as well as other suffragettes during the early 1900s. One of the photographs of Susan B. Anthony taken by Hale serves as her official portrait in the US Library of Congress. Hale soon became known as the photographer of the women’s rights movement.

Whitcomb eventually realized who the women were, and amazingly, some of the photos were original prints. Along with the pictures in Hale’s studio were photography equipment, negatives, and outtakes for photoshoots. All these items were certainly valuable vintage and antique collectibles, but need to be cleaned and verified by experts.

Auctioning Studio Treasures

After many months of cleaning and cataloging, all the photos, frames, and equipment from the attic studio were sent to auction. In all, there were over 1,000 pieces valued at $70,000. One particular photo of Susan B. Anthony was the most sought-after and sold for $35,990. This image was a silver bromide photographic print, a commonly used material for photographers in the early 1900s because it was inexpensive. Hale took the photo of Anthony in 1905, the year before her passing. The Susan B. Anthony Memorial Association made this photo its official portrait.

Due to the fact that platinum is exceedingly stable and does not degrade over time, the platinum/palladium method was widely used for practical purposes keeping photos in good condition. However, the platinotype, method, an iron process, uses ferric oxalate in combination with the metal salts of platinum and palladium to create the image, which was used primarily for aesthetic appeal but did not last as long. These prints are printed directly on paper without the use of an emulsion, which results in beautifully rich gray tones and a matte feel making them more engaging.

Hale’s cameras and other equipment were highly sought after along with background props and sold for thousands of dollars at auction. Other unique collectibles from Hale’s studio were a street corner display box selling for over $400 and a print block for the photographer’s advertisement that read, “Hale, The Leading Photographer in Geneva,” selling for almost $600.

Treasures in Your Attic?

Chances are you are not going to find valuable photos of ground-breaking suffragettes valued at thousands of dollars in your attic, but you may find other treasures left by previous owners or vintage and antique pieces handed down through generations by your great, great, great grandmother. And if you think the item may be valuable, bring it to an antique dealer like the OId & New Shop. They will offer a fair market value on a variety of antique and vintage items, including:

Fine porcelain
Artwork
Marble statuary
Persian rugs
Tapestries
Mid-century modern furniture

So, get up to that attic and explore-you’ll never know what you might find!

Antique and Vintage Jewelry is Always in Style

Posted on January 31, 2023 by Old and New Shop

Throughout centuries, jewelry styles have come and gone. Designers found their inspiration in nature, architecture, art, and culture. Some creations were handmade and delicate while others were whimsical with various looks, gemstones, and materials. But, whatever the time period, 30 years or 100 years ago, antique and vintage jewelry has always been in style!

Vintage or Antique?

If you are buying or selling jewelry, it’s good to know what is considered antique or vintage. Jewelry is considered vintage if it’s at least twenty to thirty years old. Antique jewelry is one hundred years old or more, meaning it was created before the 1910s.

Pre-Victorian Jewelry

Almost all jewelry manufactured before the beginning of the Victorian era was crafted by hand and made from yellow gold and silver. However, due to the quick development of technology in this era, machines were able to cut, stamp, and electroplate gold onto base metals allowing for the mass production of jewelry. The lower cost of production made gold and other materials to be produced in 14K, 10K, and 9K yellow gold affordable for practically everyone. Victorian jewelry featured elaborate cameos made of shell and stone, Renaissance-style lockets, hearts, flowers, and jewelry with animal themes set in pearls.

Art Nouveau Jewelry 1890 – 1915

The “new art” or Art Nouveau movement was created in the late nineteenth century as a result of the reflection of the innovations of the period. Art Nouveau had a significant impact and served as the inspiration for certain jewelry trends. The natural environment served as the primary source of inspiration for Art Nouveau designs, which included jewelry pieces depicting animals, insects, flowers, and women with flowing hair and graceful curves. Romanticized images were designed in contrast to stark images of jewelry from other periods. Different materials and methods were used such as enameling and molded glass. Precious stones like agate, moonstones, opals, sapphires, garnet, and aquamarine were the choices for pieces of this period.

Edwardian Period Jewelry 1900 – 1920

King Edward VII (Queen Victoria’s son), ascended to the British throne in 1901 and gave rise to the Edwardian era. During his reign, society attained its highest level of sophistication. This era was inspired by delicate images and light. Bows, ribbons, bow knots, lace, and flowers were often the themes for jewelry and fashion. The influences of Roman, Ancient Greek, Napoleonic, and French Baroque may all be seen in Edwardian jewelry designs. Diamonds were highlighted in Edwardian jewelry. Advances in metal manufacturing during this time began the use of platinum in jewelry making.

Art Deco Jewelry 1915 – 1935

“Art Deco.” style first started in Paris in 1925. This was the first place the fashion was seen. Lines were straight and angled or they curled gradually unlike the Art Nouveau era. Art Deco styles were basically represented as geometric shapes and symmetrical. The jewelry of this period was influenced by several factors such as the industrial revolution, Cubism, and the devastation of World War I.

Retro Jewelry 1935 – 1950

The Retro era, often referred to as the Retro Modern, followed the end of World War II. Unexpectedly, jewelry styles were large, bright, and extravagant given the devastation at the end of the war and the economic slump. Retro-style jewelry was Hollywood glitzy. Designs combined futuristic images with pieces drawn from earlier eras, however, unlike Art Deco, Retro jewelry has softer curves and more feminine themes.

Antique and Vintage Jewelry is Always in Style

Jewelry designs have always been a reflection of our history culture and art. Many pieces’ styles have been handed down through the decades. Antique shops and collectors like the Old & New Shop will buy and sell authentic pieces. Whatever the period, antique or vintage, collectors have always favored jewelry no matter what their style!

The Story Behind the Collectible

Posted on December 29, 2022 by Old and New Shop

This is a story about robbery, murder and execution. It’s also a story of William Worsley of Bedfordshire, England in the 1860s. Additionally, it’s the story behind a very unusual collectible–a bobbin that recently sold for over $300. This unique collectible commemorated the public hanging in 1868 of William Worsley.

The story starts with William Worley, who was born in 1820, married a woman named Susannah, and had a son, Charles. In his youth, Worsley became an apprentice to a hat blocker – a skilled person who made molds for hat construction. Eventually, he had his own hat-blocking business.

Life in rural England was tough for Worsley. Like most men in his time, Worsley spent time at his local pub. One fateful evening in the pub, Worsley and two of his friends, Levi Welch and James Day didn’t have the money to pay for their drinks. The men decided to rob another man, William Bradbury. Worsley, Welch, and Day attacked Bradbury with an iron bar, killing him and taking his money.

Welch blamed it all on Worsley, but was sent to prison for six years on robbery charges only. Day claimed he was only there coincidentally because he dropped a sixpence and was looking for it. He was acquitted. Worsley, however, was not as fortunate and was charged with murder.

The Trial

The murder trial of William Worsley was covered by the Bedfordshire Mercury in March of 1868. As reported by the Bedfordshire Mercury, the trial was a popular preoccupation for the people of the town. Unruly crowds of spectators tried to get admission to the trial, but were turned away. Worsley pleaded not guilty to the murder charges. During the court proceedings, the prosecution showed that the murder weapon was discovered in his house the next day. Additionally, witnesses said that they saw Worsley standing over a man lying on the street. Worsley claimed that he just happened to stumble upon a drunken man.

In the end, Worsley was found guilty by the jury and sentenced to death. He was the last known person to be put to death by public hanging. Shortly after the verdict, Worsley wrote a statement confessing to the murder.

William Worsley’s Hanging

Thousands of men, women and children gathered to watch the hanging of William Worsley on March 31st, 1868. Public hangings in the 1800’s were a community event and people would come to watch, wait, and pass the time by knitting or playing dice. A number of townspeople would go to sell their wares, for example, copies of Worsely’s “Last Dying Speech and Confession.” Others came to sell souvenirs of the spectacle. One of these souvenirs was a bobbin used in the production of lace. During this time period, lace making was a cottage industry that used animal bone and soft woods to make bobbins. This keepsake bobbin sold at the hanging was inscribed with the words “William Worsley Hung 1868.”

The Collectible Bobbin

Bobbins made of small bone and decorated with glass bead spangles are not too difficult to find. Some are decorated with family names or symbols such as hearts or diamonds, however, there aren’t many that commemorate a public hanging, like those sold on that day in March of 1868. Today, this rare item and others like this have become valuable and sought after by collectors and dealers.

The Story Behind the Collectible

The story behind the lace bobbin collectible is a unique one to say the least. Not all collectibles have such fascinating origins, but some do have their own stories, however simple, to share. One place to find interesting and unique collectibles is at the Old & New Shop. You never know what fascinating items you may find and what histories they have!

Antique Macabre Folk Art – a tale of robbery, murder, Blame & The Death Penalty. Source Vintage. (n.d.). Retrieved December 29, 2022, from https://source-vintage.co.uk/blogs/news/antique-macabre-folk-art-a-tale-of-robbery-murder-blame-the-death-penalty

William Worsley (born 1820 in Bedfordshire) living in Luton, Bedfordshire in 1881. Trace your Family Tree Online. (n.d.). Retrieved December 29, 2022, from https://www.findmypast.com/1881-census/william-worsley-0007676605

Bedfordshire County Council, County Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford, MK42 9AP, 01234 363 222, feedback@bedscc.gov.uk. (2019, June 21). The opening of the trial of William Worsley. Hosted By Bedford Borough Council: The Opening of the Trial of William Worsley. Retrieved December 29, 2022, from https://bedsarchives.bedford.gov.uk/CommunityHistories/Luton/LutonIntroduction/TheOpeningOfTheTrialOfWilliamWorsley.aspx

Vintage Christmas Collectibles

Posted on December 8, 2022 by Old and New Shop

It’s that time of the year to go up to the attic and pull out your Christmas tree (if you have an artificial one) and decorations. Some of those older decorations passed down from family members, may be valuable. Over time, vintage Christmas items can become collectibles. So, before you throw out that old plastic Santa or ceramic gingerbread house, check if they have any monetary worth.

Top Valuable Vintage Decorations

You may not have any of these coveted Christmas pieces, but knowing the value of some vintage collectibles may inspire you to go back into Grandma’s attic.

1900s Vintage St. Nick. The most valuable Christmas decoration collectible currently sells for almost $8,000. This candy container Santa stands two feet tall and has a lavender mohair coat and a beard made of real lamb’s wool. It has unusual facial features that are almost scary.
57-Inch Santa. This Victorian-style Santa wears a long coat made of wood and acrylic and carries a lit Christmas tree. It’s value is $6,250.
Empire Blow Mold Wreath. This molded wreath measures 21 inches across and created by the Empire company in the 1990s. It’s value is $4,750.
Snow Angels. This set of four vintage ceramic Christmas angels have round, red chubby cheeks typical of the 1950s or 60s Christmas decoration style. Their coats and wings are trimmed with textured snow. This set of angels is has a value of almost $4,700.
Pink Evergleam Aluminum Christmas Tree. Yes, a pink Christmas tree! Aluminum trees were popular in the 1960s and came in a variety of colors. This particular tree is six feet tall and has glittering branches. It’s value is about $4,550.

While these collectables are rare finds, some are much more attainable and can be found more commonly at flea markets and garage sales. Many decorations from Department 56 have become vintage. Depart ment 56 has been making decorations and collectables for years. Some of them are licensed, such as Dr. Seuss’ the Grinch figurines, and others are retired, making them valuable.

On the lower end of the Christmas vintage decoration spectrum, but not any less popular, are the ceramic lighted trees, plastic lawn nativity sets, and village houses. A vintage simple wooden hand painted Nutcracker, for example, can sell for several hundred dollars.

Real Vintage Christmas Collectibles?

If you are looking for real vintage collectibles – beware! Many pieces are sold or made to look vintage, but are just reproductions. Many of these vintage Christmas items are sold on the internet, but there a few things you could look for and actions you can take to check an item’s authenticity:

Make sure unopened items are in their original boxes.
Do research. Certain materials were not available in some decades. For example, metal ornament caps were replaced with paper during world war II, specifically between 1942 and 1944.
Shop at a reputable dealer. Antique dealers, such as The Old & New Shop, will verify an item’s authenticity and give you the best offer for your vintage Christmas ornament or decorations.
If the vintage item sounds like a really great deal, it probably is too good to be true.
Ask for a certificate of authenticity for larger valued collectables.

We wish happy holidays and successful vintage shopping to all from The Old & New Shop!

Sources: https://www.workandmoney.com/s/valuable-vintage-christmas-decorations-25542494e38b4c06

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Grinch_(film)

https://department56.com/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm7hQBMBNE8&t=152s

Vintage Vacuums

Surprising as it may be, vintage vacuums have grown in appeal for antique collectors. This retro appliance is not only a display item but popular because of its history.

The History

An American inventor named James Spangler created an electric appliance that was a broomstick with a cloth, a long handle, and a bag. He was an asthmatic janitor, so his invention was probably developed out of necessity. In 1908, he sold his design to a Brit named William Hoover. His early vacuum idea was one of the best practical inventions of its time. Hoover’s company’s leather factory in England began mass-producing modern-looking vacuums by 1930. Although his vacuum was a practical way of cleaning, not many people owned one because of the high cost to produce and sell it. Many years later the electric vacuum would be used in most households.

Vintage Vacuum Collectibles

Since its origin, the vacuum has undergone many transformations, from dustpans to rovers, spanning over 150 years. Here are the top vintage vacuum collectibles:

Electrolux

This Swedish company has been producing vacuums for decades, and the 1950’s model is a top collectible. In the 1960s, the company’s marketing campaign slogan was, “Nothing sucks like an Electrolux.” Many marketing experts thought it would be a disaster, however, the campaign did grab the attention of consumers.

My Little Queen series by Bissell

Another popular collectible is the Little Queen series, which was invented by Melville Bissell to help his wife with her crockery pot store. It was more of a carpet sweeper, but still a favorite vintage vacuum.

Hoover 800

As mentioned above, James Spangler is credited for the invention of the electric vacuum and he eventually became partners with Hoover. This Hoover model is a popular vintage vacuum collectible today as well as the 1952 Hoover Model 82 Constellation.

Singer Deluxe

Singers sold only sewing machines in the early years. But, in the 60s they expanded their product line to include vacuum cleaners with the Singer Deluxe model becoming popular.

The Royal Lexon Standard

Royal Lexon Standard was developed in 1910, and over one million of these models were sold. This is especially outstanding at a time when only a few million homes had electricity. Because of its history, the Royal Lexon Standard model is a very sought-after vintage vacuum.

Kirby

The Kirby Company only produced one model and sold their vacuums through door-to-door sales. The company didn’t exactly have a good reputation based on the behavior of its salesmen. Many people complained that the salespeople were pushy and annoying. Despite its reputation, the Kirby is a top vintage collectible.

A Fascination

It may seem unusual to some, but many collectors have a fascination with vintage vacuums. For those who do, there are clubs to join whose members have the same interests. The Vacuum Cleaners Collectors Club’s members appreciate the mechanics and design aspects of collectible vacuum cleaners. This non-profit organization values the part of industrial history in which vacuum cleaners were part of the electrical pioneer movement in the United States. Members collect, restore, and preserve this fascinating aspect of industrial heritage. The club provides a space for collecting and cataloging historical materials, and information, and sharing the interest in vacuum cleaners between collectors.

As with many collectors of antiques and vintage items, searching and shopping is a large part of the journey to acquiring items. Flea markets, antique malls, and shops like the Old & New ShopOld & New Shop, are the best places to start.

Vintage Halloween Collectibles

When witches go riding and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers, ‘tis near HALLOWEEN! -Unknown

Halloween, as it is called today, is a contraction of the phrase All Hallows’ Eve , and is celebrated on October 31st, the evening before All Saints Day. The holiday’s origins began as a celebration of bountiful harvest and remembering the dead. Halloween traditions are thought to be influenced by Celtic harvest festivals long ago. Irish and Scottish immigrants took many Halloween customs to North America in the 19th century, and the holiday eventually spread to other countries by the 20th century.

In Mexico, the holiday is called the Day of the Dead. Families and friends gather on this day to pay their respects and celebrate those who have died. Although it can be a more solemn tone, unlike in the US, some celebrations can be humorous and fun, remembering funny events and stories about the departed.

Whatever is celebrated, there are plenty of vintage Halloween collectibles and fun for anyone looking for a blast from the past!

Trick-or-Treat

Halloween is fun for children and adults, although it didn’t necessarily start out that way. Many of the activities, pranks, and vintage Halloween items have evolved through the years as we now know them, including:

Trick-or-treating
Costumes
Parties
Apple bobbing
Carving pumpkins
Haunted houses
Scary stories
And, horror films

Vintage cards, posters, decorations, and costumes were representative of a later time period, not just because they showed what people were afraid of, but also of the time’s pop culture and entertainment. Costumes, for example, were usually homemade and used as disguises for teens playing pranks. The disguises were usually scary and frequently portrayed witches and monsters. During the depression, vandalism was a common occurrence at Halloween. As a result, parents started organizing trick-or-treating and costume parties.

Vintage Halloween Collectibles

For vintage and antique Halloween collectors, there is a plethora of items available. For example, a decoration like the rare tabletop centerpiece, Vintage Halloween Horrible Witch Decoration Crepe Skirt, dates back approximately 90 years and can sell for thousands of dollars.

Other finds include a 1930’s vintage Halloween Beach and Arthur party plate, Toledo Halloween Jack-o-Lantern Tin Parade Pumpkin valued at $7,500, a 25-year vintage Halloween Winking Pumpkin Candy Container with sliding bottom, and many more vintage Halloween treasures.

Many of these vintage items can be bought through the internet, however, flea markets, antique malls, and reputable dealers like the Old & New Shop, might be a better way. The ability to touch and see a piece, and hold it in your hand can make all the difference when deciding to purchase a vintage or antique piece, especially if it’s a large investment. The Old & New Shop will give you a fair and accurate evaluation as well as purchase items you might like to sell.

So, have fun with your Halloween vintage pieces, and Happy Halloween!

Old & New Shop