Collectibles - General

A "collectible" is defined as any item of interest and value to a collector. Many items are considered collectible and collectors collect, well, just about everything. The type of item does not really determine if an item is collectible, as different items appeal to different collectors. The rarity, quality and condition of the item, however, has a great bearing on the collectability and value of an item to a collector of that type of item.

To be collectible, an object must be in the best condition that can be found for that type of item. For example, collectible glassware is only considered of value if it has no chips or cracks. Unique designs and colorful patterns also make objects more collectible. Advertising slogans, manufacturers marks, and vintage graphics also add to the value of a collectible. Rarity is another factor in the value of an object. A limited edition figurine signed by the artist is worth much more to a collector than a common figurine with no signature.

Collectors are just as interesting as their collections. Celebrities who count themselves as collectors include Dan Aykroid, who collects police badges, Whoopi Goldberg, who collects Bakelite jewelry, Rosie O'Donnell, who collects McDonald's toys, and Quentin Tarantino, who collects board games.