6 Tips to Discover the Value of Your Collectible Items

Copyright 2006 Monique Hawkins
There are many collectible items people enjoy having in their unique collections. These items include music boxes, antique coins, mechanical music and instruments, antique furniture, and NASCAR collectibles to name a few. There are ways for collectors to discover if their items are valuable. Let's find out how to do so.
1. Always check out the condition of your item first. Look carefully for scratches, tears, dirt, if the item is new, clean, etc. In other words, check the item over with a fine toothcomb!
2. Make sure you have enough light when you check your collectibles. Pay close attention to the name, identification marks, and copyright. Look for imperfections, tears, scratches, and discoloration.
3. If you enjoy collecting dolls, a doll intact in a box raises its value. If the box is damaged or missing, then the value decreases and some are even considered worthless.
4. Visit forums, discussion boards, and other places where collectors gather; get their opinions on your particular collectible.
5. Take the time and visit eBay
If you choose to look into the value of your collectible by visiting an auction site eBay is a good move. eBay has all kinds of collectibles you can imagine. Here are some simple steps to assist you in your eBay search:
-In order to use some of the search function, you must be a registered user with eBay. The registration process is easy and free! So, first, take the time and create an account.
-Search for the category where your collectible is most likely to be listed. For example, starting at "collectibles" would be a good option.
-If you are seeking value for specific collectibles such as antique cars, music boxes, antique coins, etc., check only in the search box for that particular collectible. The search box is a handy tool that helps you find what you need.
-Next, check out the completed auctions box and study the prices and descriptions of collectible items that have been sold.
-Click on individual collectible auctions that you are interested in. You will find a wealth of information such as the price of the item sold, the condition, etc.
-Always keep in mind that eBay prices usually are not the best. At lot of times, the price could be more if the collectible were sold locally. This is because most online auction buyers haven?t been able to actually take a look at the item in person.
6. Other places to look for the Value of Collectibles
There are many other places to discover information on the value of your collectibles. These include antique and collectible stores in your home town, and other online auction sites such listantique.com and anteq.com. MBSI.org and Amica.org are great sites for those interested in mechanical instruments as well as music boxes. Completing research at your local library is also a good source as well as the local hobby clubs in your city.
Finding the value of your collectibles such as music boxes, antique coins, mechanical music and instruments, antique furniture, etc. does not have to be a difficult and daunting task. For those collectible enthusiasts, the process can actually be quite fun! Why not find out the value of your collectibles starting today?