This is one of the most often asked questions here at From Times Past Antiques and Interiors. The popularity of such television programs as the Antiques Road Show has made people more aware of the items their ancestors owned. Also as we age, we learn to appreciate different things, to look at them in a different light. Things that have been around all our lives suddenly take on a new meaning, and this has people wondering about the possible value of their treasures.

The most important rule to remember from the very beginning is this: Just because it is old does not mean it is valuable, and just because it is not very old does not mean it is worthless!! So, what exactly is antique?

This will depend who answers the question. If you ask a purist, one who collects very high end antiques, they may tell you that true antiques are objects made prior to 1830! This is partly due to the fact that during the Victorian era (1837 – 1901) the industrial revolution made it easier and cheaper to use machines to create objects. The purists feel that excellent craftsmanship can never ever be matched by any machines.

If you ask a customs agent, they may tell you that the item has to be 100 years old, and by most definitions this one appears to be the most accepted. This means that if an item is 100 years old, you would not have to pay duty on that item. Certain countries have slightly different definitions, and rules change, so check before you spend a lot of money!

If you ask this question to a European, you will get a very different answer than if you ask someone in Western Canada. This is because there is a definition of antique in “ context”. 1920’s furniture and collectibles are often labeled antique in Alberta because our province is not even 100 years old! In England, it would be considered second hand furniture!

Collectibles are a category that seem to bridge the gap between the two. It covers 1950’s + toys, dolls, and basically anything that is not too old but is authentic to the period. But what if it’s a reproduction? Well, eventually even they become antiques in their own right . Is a 1950’s television an antique just because it is the earliest one available? Perhaps, but that doesn’t mean it has much value yet as a collector’s item.

After all is said and done, the best way to find out is to do your homework. Read books, visit museums, antique shops, auctions, flea markets and antique shows, and check the internet – anywhere that sells items on the secondary market.

written by Johanne Yakula

From Times Past

12403 Stony Plain Road,

Edmonton, T5N 3N3

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