Messages

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Antique Questions Forum / Re: tons of old and very old books

« on: July 12, 2009, 04:08:34 pm »

Tim's advice is right on the money. While I have found books on Ebay, as a collector, I'm usually searching for a specific book. And not only that, I'm looking for it to be in certain condition, and most probably for as close to a first edition as I can get. Sometimes I'm looking for an edition by a specific publisher or for an edition published in a particular location, so all of that information is important to me.

When I'm on these type searches, I go to AbeBooks, Alibris or some similar site. In reference to books there priced at a couple hundred dollars versus not being worth a few dollars on Ebay, sometimes (often times) those on Ebay have no idea of a book's worth. I have certainly known of individuals searching for a particular book, or books printed during a certain time period (18th century books) or on a specific subject, that paid way more than $250, and considered the purchase price a bargain.

But as Tim said, in order to get those kinds of prices, you have to do your due diligence. As a collector, I want to know everything possible about the book before I lay down that kind of money, especially because I can't see it "in person" or hold it in my hands for a personal inspection. The more information you can provide, the better chance you have to sell your items for top dollar.

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Antique Questions Forum / Re: Fiestaware

« on: July 11, 2009, 03:09:24 pm »

Dear Tasteofsevenseas,

That's not a random bit of luck, that's a blessing! To find a piece like that, in that good condition and just mixed in with others for a couple bucks...those are the days we collectors live for! Congratulations!

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Antique Questions Forum / Re: Fiestaware

« on: July 11, 2009, 07:09:06 am »

Hi Taleofsevenseas,

Glad for your find. It's always nice to find out something you just thought was "pretty" is worth a little something. And I in no way wish to steal your thunder, but just want to let you know that the value you have on it is a bit on the high side.

As an explanation, you will find wide-ranging values on vintage Fiestaware. The long and short of it is that years ago, you could find vintage Fiesta just as I think you mentioned earlier...in thrift stores. It was quite common to see pieces there. However, once Fiestaware became such a collectible (Baby Boomers growing up I think had a lot to do with it), finding it anywhere other than antiques and collectibles stores became a rarity. And, the prices and values soared. Then, along came Ebay, the great equalizer. And now, even though you may not find as much Fiestaware in the stores, you can ALWAYS find it on Ebay. And if it's not the piece you want or in the condition you'd like, just wait a bit, and it will show up.

That being said, Ebay has caused the purchase price of many pieces of Fiestaware to decrease. So, while some sources may tell you that your pitcher is worth $200, PLEASE take that with a grain of salt and know that if you ever choose to sell your piece or value it for some other reason, the actual value could be half that. I've actually paid a little less than half that amount for one of those that was in pristine condition, but then again, I'm an absolutely great bidder  .

Don't want to burst your bubble, just trying to help collectors to be truly informed. It's a very nice-looking piece!

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Antique Questions Forum / Re: Fiestaware

« on: July 10, 2009, 07:41:14 pm »

Hello Ironlord!

I'm new here and pleased to make your acquaintance. I am one of those "rabid" collectors, and have considerable knowledge about vintage fiesta. I've been a collector for some 12 years, and have had vintage fiestaware in my family for 40 - 50 years. These days, Fiesta collections can indeed be quite valuable, but a lot depends on the number of pieces, the type of piece (ie plate, lunch plate, coffee cup, onion soup bowl etc.) as well as condition and color.

If you would like to send me a PM with specific information, I'm certain that I could help you to at least make a general determination about the value of your family member's collection. Something to give you a "ballpark" idea of its worth.

I'm more than happy to help if you so choose. I love, live and breath the stuff