How Old is Old?

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For those in Asia, where 5 000-year-old vases sit in museums, Western antiques don't seem too old. But for Americans, items even a few decades old have value. An ice-cream maker from the 1920s could be worth US$50. A sign from World War I could sell for US$4 000 or more. Some who collect want to make money and become antique dealers. They carefully look over items for any flaws that would lower the item's value. They take classes and read books to learn which items will increase in value or are desirable to collectors. Others simply buy whatever catches their fancy. If people enjoy rock 'n' roll music, they might collect old records. A tea drinker may collect antique teacups. Those not looking to make money suggest, "Don't buy it unless it's useful." The trick is finding new ways to use old items. For example, an old-fashioned clothes iron may be used as a bookend. An old children's toy wagon could display books or teddy bears in a guest room. An antique quilt could be hung on the wall for display.