Downsizing? Determined to get rid of stuff you no longer need? Cleaning out a home or an estate? Stop! Know Before You Throw.
It’s hard to believe it’s already October. As we move toward the end of the year, we approach some of the most popular holidays celebrated. Most of these holidays include expression through decorations and accessories. However, Halloween is unique, since it also includes costumes.
In past articles, I’ve talked about ephemera, those items never meant to last longer than the event itself, e.g. (vintage) travel advertising material. Halloween decorations and costumes often fall under the ephemera category, since they aren’t made very well. Manufacturers would rather sell us new ones each year.
Consequently, many of the older Halloween decorations, accessories and costumes having survived in good condition have value to collectors. When I say older, I mean pre-1960s for the most part, and especially items from the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s.
While these items may not command the high prices of some items of ephemera, such as a 1932 The Mummy movie poster, which sold for $435,500, many of these
items will sell for $20 to more than $100 each. Not bad if you happen to have an old box full of these items from an estate. Some of the manufacturer names to look for are Dennison, Luhrs, Beistle, Halco and Bainbridge.
If you feel uncertain about the value of items, consider the advice of a professional. If I can be of assistance, call me today.
Jon Englund has more than 25 years of experience in appraising and liquidating personal property, jewelry, art, collectibles, antiques, furniture, printed items and more. A Midwest transplant, Jon trained at New York University in appraisal studies.
For more information, call (480) 699-1567. You also can send an email to Jon@KnowBeforeYouThrow.INFO.