Tips for Buying Antique Advertisements
By Dan Matthews
If you're a new collector with an interest in collecting antique advertising signs, globes thermometers or other items, you may wonder how to get started. Many people fear making a costly mistake. Here are my tips about how to collect.
1. Buy something because you like it
Too often, people worry about choosing items that are only of high value. Collecting antique advertising signs is a very fun and rewarding hobby, so don't get too serious. If you see something you like and it fits your budget, buy it! If you will enjoy it, then the financial value doesn't matter. It will bring you years of enjoyment and satisfaction. Do you research, but be sure to keep it fun. Watch the video to see one of my favorite signs.
2. Do your research
Imagine you're thinking about purchasing a sign at an auction but haven't seen this item before. Is it real or a fake? Is the price listed fair? Our TAC website is a great resource to compare the sign to an authentic one we've TAC'd. So a search at our website using the company name on the sign and any identifiable features, like an animal or other detail. It's possible we have authenticated a piece similar to it in the past. Better yet, if you see a TAC sticker on it, look up the number on the website and you’ll know if it’s authentic, its condition and value. You’ll know you’re buying an original sign. Searching by TAC number is free. Silver membership is also free and you can see the basic information. Interested in learning more? Upgrade to the gold or platinum membership and you can see all the details. YOu'll also get a discount on our authentication services.
3. Get it authenticated
So you won the auction and bought the item! Congratulations! Take it home, and give it a once over. See our tips for cleaning or not cleaning the item and preserving it. Go the extra mile and get it authenticated by TAC so that you will know that your purchase was an authentic one!
Learn more about getting an item authenticated by TAC
