I have 30 years of resale experience and am the go-to person when a friend needs a quick appraisal. I’ve noticed a recurring phenomenon over the years: the antique items that most people consider valuable usually aren’t, while the things they want to get rid of are often popular collectibles.
Here’s why: Many of us learn what is valuable from our parents. But the market is changing, and new collectors have different tastes.
What overlooked treasures are hiding in your home right now? The answer may surprise you. In this series, we’ll explore popular collectibles you probably already own.
1. McCarty Pottery
An old episode of “Antiques Roadshow” introduced me to Lee and Pup McCarty’s fine regional pottery. Since then I have been lucky enough to find McCarty Pottery North to Vancouver, Washington.
The couple began producing their wares nearby Oxford, Mississippi, 1954. At the time, an old mule barn served as a production studio, and the source of the clay was a ravine located on William Faulkner’s property (yes, That William Faulkner). The famous writer heard about the young couple from his daughter Jill and invited the artist to take the clay they wanted.
Many McCarty pottery has distinct black wavy lines on the glaze. While this may seem like a flaw, it’s entirely intentional. The free lines represent the vast and winding Mississippi River. With or without the trademark squiggle, each piece will be labeled “McCartys, Merigold, Miss” or simply “McCartys”
Recently on eBay, this 6 inch McCartis pitcher Priced at $950, this 9 inch cat doll Price is $202.50.
2. Pewabic Tiles
Since 1903, pewa beach has always been a force for craftsmanship and creative innovation in Detroit, Michigan. Founded by Mary Chase Perry Pewabic and her husband, Horace Caulkins, became early leaders in the field. arts and crafts movementproviding cutting-edge iridescent glazes and high relief tiles to architects and designers around the world.
Today, Pewabic is a Detroit destination. its studio is Designated a National Historic Landmark It operates a pottery, tile shop, arts and education center as a non-profit organization driven by one mission: Enriching the human spirit through clay.
The Pewabic wordmark appears at the bottom of the tile. Look for a circular embossed logo that reads “Pewabic Detroit” with the year of production in the center. On eBay, this Angel Theme Pewabic Tiles Priced at $166.13 on Etsy, this A pair of tiles from 1998 List price $399.
3. Higgins Art Glass
Higgins is a major representative of mid-century design Founded in 1948 Composed of Michael Higgins and Frances Higgins. Rather than hand-blown glass, the couple fuses pieces of enamel-coated colored glass together in a kiln.
Working out of their Chicago apartment (which houses a small kiln behind the couch), Higgins produces highly intricate, tactile and colorful plates, jewelry, vases and mobiles.
Works are often marked with a printed or etched “Higgins” name and an impressive abstract image that collectors call “The Dancing Man” (see example at top left) Higgins Glass Studio home page).
this Higgins glass tripod Recently sold on eBay for $215.67, this Covered cigarette box Priced at $125.
don’t destroy
The antique valuables in this article have one thing in common – they are all fragile! After 30 years of buying and selling online, I’ve developed a theory: Fragile items increase in value faster than any other collectible category. With so many new sellers and so much packaging and shipping, breakage can quickly make items rarer and more expensive.
If you find a fragile treasure at home and decide to sell, my advice is this: charge appropriate shipping fees, pack the item as if it were going to war, and make sure you have it fully insured.
Curious about the ever-changing world of collectibles? Check out my collection Hidden treasures in the second-hand market.
