What’s It Worth Fact:
Did you ever think a paper hand fan was a collectible? It sure is! In the early 20th century, businesses often promoted their products or events with them. For example, the Missouri Conservation Commission depicted the beloved Smokey the Bear on these hand-held paper fans!
This category consists of objects that have historical interest and usually associated with memorable people or events. Do you have a Babe Ruth-signed baseball? The most popular genre within memorabilia/collectibles category is sports, but that is really only the tip of the iceberg. Objects range from figurines to board games to dolls to name a few. The category can be playful and fun, as it includes those popular Beanie Babies, Barbie dolls and Cabbage Patch Kids. Value in the majority of memorabilia lies in the story behind the object and/or the individual attached to it. Even signed paper napkins by notable figures count, so don’t toss that personal note from Bill Gates himself! If you’re considering throwing away that old election button rooting for your favorite candidate, first find out the appraised value! These also count!
Tips on submitting memorabilia/collectibles appraisals:
- The historical background can be critical. Many times, common objects in this category have a significant appraisal value due to an interesting history/story behind it. Be sure to be as detailed as possible if this is the case.
