Eiji Yoshikawa’s Musashi is more than just a novel about samurai. It is a profound exploration of personal growth, discipline, and the evolution of purpose. Its principles can be applied to many aspects of life, including (strange as it may seem) to the world of collectibles. Much like Musashi’s journey on the Way of the …
Musashi and “The Way”: The Growth of a Collector Read More »
Marble collections, whether consisting of antique treasures or modern creations, are a vibrant and nostalgic hobby for many. Displaying these small, colorful spheres creatively not only enhances their visual appeal but also allows collectors to share their passion with others. Below are some imaginative ways to showcase your marbles, along with an innovative digital twist …
The world of marble collecting, a niche yet passionate hobby, has been increasingly plagued by misinformation and fraud. As the popularity of collecting vintage and rare marbles grows, so does the prevalence of deceptive practices aimed at exploiting collectors – particularly those new to the hobby. From counterfeit marbles to fantasy packaging, the online marketplace …
Online Marble Collecting: The Rise of Misinformation and Fraud Read More »
Imagine possessing the collection of your dreams – complete with the choicest condition, highest-end, rarest specimens – for little to no long-term monetary cost. Sound too good to be true? Well, I and other savvy collectors have accomplished and repeated just such a feat, although there are a few caveats. Read on to find out …
The Art of Self-Funded Collecting: Strategies and Cheat Codes Read More »
Collecting items – whether art, antiques, sports memorabilia, or NFTs – is a passion shared by many. However, the value of a collectible goes beyond its physical appearance. Its history, authenticity, and provenance are critical elements that contribute to its worth. In today’s digital age, creating a digital record of collectibles is not just practical …
Digital Records for Collectibles: Preservation And Engagement Read More »
I visited an antique mall recently, looking for my usual list of yet-to-be-discovered treasures. Within minutes my senses were overwhelmed with display cases loaded high and low with vintage kitsch and knicknacks. Tiny price tags with hand-written numbers tucked behind or under each item added to the strain on my eyesight. I found an item …
Antique Vendors and Consignors: More Moolah with QR Codes Read More »
The thrill of winning an auction is just one part of what is often a roller-coaster ride of emotions. If you have your auction winnings shipped to you instead of pickup, you can expect to have some mix of anticipation, apprehension, elation, relief, disappointment, frustration or heartbreak. The outcome depends on many factors including the level and …
Avoiding Auction Shipping Pitfalls: What Buyers Need to Know Read More »
Reasons to collect range from financial investment to personal achievement, but most of us form a personal attachment to our collection in some way over time. We often invest more time, energy and money than any “sane” person would. We educate ourselves to be knowledgeable. We bask in the glory of prize acquisitions. It becomes …
Prior to having a system to keep track of my extensive collection of marbles, I frequently found myself to be a living caricature of the old joke. And trust me – whether through actual disorganization, forgetfulness or error, we eventually all do lose our marbles. When collections are small, we may not feel the need …
SOLD … And … SOLD!! The common set of game marbles goes to the enthusiastic bidder in the second row for $50, and the rare Peltier Blue Galaxy NLR marble to the quiet nondescript bidder in the back for $5. Wait … WHAT??? OK, that example may be a bit embellished for effect, but it’s …
