Like most modern basics, the bookcase evolved out of necessity. When book publishing began to grow as an industry, wealthy and religious households bought volumes in larger numbers, presenting the problem of proper storage. Because of the reverential nature of religious and scientific texts, the bulk of what was published early on, purchasers wanted to find a way to store their tomes so as to prevent decay, rotting and waste. An initial solution was to store books in kitchen cupboard shelves. Doors were discarded in short order; owning books, especially enough to need shelving, was a symbol of economic status, and doors prevented the volumes from being properly displayed. This was the beginning of the modern bookcase.

Some of the oldest bookcases of note are located at the library of Oxford University in England. Installed at the very end of the sixteenth century, the cases are made of solid wood and constructed in the simplest, most unadorned way.

Antique bookcases can be made of wood, plaster, iron or bronze, though wood is the most common medium. Styles can range from austere to ornate depending on the country, era and manufacturer.  When shopping for an antique bookcase, its important to do research before hand, so that you know exactly what kind of bookcase you want to purchase. Because the collection of books is a universal activity, antique bookcases come from all over the world, which means that the material and style of these bookcases can vary greatly. Some of the styles that are easiest to find are oriental, Georgian and revolving.

Antique bookcases can lend a sense of charm, sophistication or glamor to your home, depending on the style of your decor and the type of case purchased. To that end, you should keep a few elements in mind when shopping. First, keep in mind the size and scale of your room. A small room with a low ceiling is probably best suited by lower, English style book shelves while a larger space with vaulted ceilings would easily accommodate the taller, more ornate French style bookcases. Mind the space you have available in your room and take into account the kinds of books you'll be storing in the antique bookcase. Avoid glass shelved bookcases if you'll be storing heavy volumes, but for displaying dainty figurines or light weight objects of a delicate nature, stay away from bulkier wood shelving. As with any antique purchase, be sure the manufactures mark is visible at the bottom or back of the piece, and purchase from a reputable dealer to avoid counterfeits.

The wide array of antique chairs on the market can overwhelm the first time shopper. Still, if you take some time to familiarize yourself with the most common styles of antique chairs, you'll find yourself navigating the market with ease and expertise.

Developed during the Regency period in Paris, the French bergère was designed as a lounge piece. The style rose in popularity between 1715 and 1723, with slight design evolution in the following decades.  This style first appeared in Paris during the Regency period, 1715-1723 and the style was refined in subsequent periods.The French bergère style is similar to an armchair and features an upholstered frame, arms and back. The variety in bergères comes in the different types of wood, carving and molding used to create and decorate the chair. Depending on the region and era that the chair came from, the piece may also feature wood that is gilded, painted or coated with wax for a shiny gloss.   The bergère chair will always have a separate but tailor fitted seat cushion.

The most popular and prolific style of antique chair is the Chippendale. Because of its popularity, there is are many different types of Chippendales, but all have a single unifying characteristic: the open back chair. The open back might be cut out, interlaced or woven.

The French fauteuil is the most popular style of French Antique chairs. Developed during the 18th century, the fauteuil is an open-arm chair with an upholstered wood frame. The wood frame also features carved relief ornamentation and an upholstered seat, back and arms. The upholstered wood frame segments that are exposed typically feature either painted surfaces or gilding.

The Hepplewhite chair's hallmark features are a shield shaped chair backing, shorter, curved arms and straight legs.  Meanwhile, the 18th century English Queen Anne style features cabriole legs, carved scroll work and a horseshoe shaped seat.

When shopping for an antique chair, keep in mind the style and space the chair will be going into. The intended use of the chair will be the determining factor in how sturdy the chair you are purchasing should be. A decorative piece that will not be used often can afford to have more ornamental features and less sturdy construction, while a dining room chair or living room seating that will receive lots of use should be constructed of solid wood and have a greater load bearing capability. Also keep in mind that upholstery will wear with extended use, so pieces that will see higher traffic should be upholstered with higher quality, denser fabrics.

There is no quicker way to add glamor, style, sophistication or charm to any room in the house than with a well selected piece of antique furniture.

It is a common misconception that antique furniture only works with very traditional or even Victorian style rooms, nothing could be further from the truth. In point of fact, a well chosen piece of antique furniture can elevate the style of any design whether the space is modern, kitschy, retro, global or even minimalist. The trick is to select pieces that wither blend in (homogenize) with decor or provide rich contrast. Antique furniture can be grouped into four basic categories by location of origin: English (Victorian, Pre-Victorian), European (French or German, usually), American (Shaker, New York, Western) or Far Eastern (Chinese, date/era specific). 

While there are no hard and fast rules on the subject, collectors, dealer and historians agree that a piece of furniture is considered antique if it is more than 100 years old. In order to be a successful antique shopper, it is vital that you study and familiarize yourselves with the hallmarks of the most popular styles. For the occasional antique shopper, of if you're only looking to purchase one piece, you can skip the more intensive, broad scope study and zero in on information pertaining to the type of piece you're looking to acquire. History, art history and antique guide books are all readily available at bookstores, online or at the local library. Being prepared with this type of information before purchasing will help you to get a great price and avoid scams or counterfeit pieces.

The construction of antique furniture out of solid woods both rare and fine grade makes it an investment that, if well maintained, will almost certainly increase in value over time. The value of wood pieces is determined both by the condition and type of wood. The highly prized woods include mahogany, oak, walnut and pine. When shopping look for pieces with the original hardware and avoid pieces that may have been refurbished, refinished or redone. Be sure to inspect the piece completely, keeping in mind that slightly wobbly or shaky legs are usually a sign of authenticity and original fittings.

Once purchased, retaining the value of your antique piece will require vigilant maintenance. Never use lemon oil on the wood of your antique furniture, as this will cause drying and actually damage the wood and diminish your purchases value. Instead, use cleaning products and polishes are primarily made of natural beeswax.

Antique tables are usually divided into categories based on their use. Purchasing an antique table is both a smart investment and a savvy decorating move. Antique tables infuse a sense of style and charm into a room without sacrificing functionality.

For example, buying an antique end table is one way to spice up an otherwise boring piece of furniture that rarely gets a second look. The benefit of an antique end table is that you can take style risks that might be much more dangerous with larger pieces of furniture. The relatively obscure nature of the end table and its "low man on the totem pole' status allows one to experiment with bold color, construction or mediums without tearing a room apart. Using an antique end table will allow the purchaser to show some flare without breaking the conventions or design restraints of a room.

A slightly bolder move, the antique coffee table allows the purchaser to make a statement and create a central focal point in the room. Here again the purchaser can make a riskier style choice with the hedge security of the pieces minor role in the furniture landscape. While an antique coffee table make a decidedly stronger statement than an antique end table, the nature of the table's function (to hold books, vases and other display items) makes it a still safer option than a larger piece of antique furniture.

Perhaps the strongest design choice when it comes to antique tables is a dining table. Far from being relegated to country or rustic styles, an antique dining table can inspire even the most modern design, infusing a sense of unexpected sophistication into the space.

Caring for your antique tables takes a little bit of common sense and a whole lot of diligence. If the table is in a high traffic area, regular dusting will help prevent nicks and scratches to the surface caused by dragging weighted items (like books, plates, cups or lamps) across the surface when its covered with particles or debris. Regular dusting and polishing will preserve the wood on your table which helps retain and grow your antique tables value. Avoid using drugstore brand cleaners and wood soaps, and always avoid cleaners with lemon oil as an ingredient. Lemon oil may impart a pleasant smell, but it will also dry out the wood of your antique table, decreasing its long term value and making it prone to splintering and breakage.

Looking for something nice to sit on while you're watching television? Are you tired of sitting in that hard aluminum chair? You may want to think about investing in an antique sofa. The terms "couch" and "sofa" share the same meaning. A sofa is a piece of furniture used for sitting purposes with capabilities of seating one or more persons. There are all different kinds of sofas which you can choose from for your home. The most popular types of couches is the loveseat. Those types of couches would be perfect for married couples or people who are dating. During the years, the styles of sofas have changed but they still remain one of the most popular piece of furniture on the market.

RARE FIND MINIATURE SITTING SZ ANTIQUE SOFA SETEE GIRLS ROOM DOLL DISPLAY

US $259.99

Rare 18th Century Antique French Louis XV Period Fruitwood Settee Sofa Loveseat

US $1,712.00

BEAUTIFUL RARE 2 PCS OLD ANTIQUE VOCTORIAN SOFA COUCH WITH CHAIR

US $499.99

During the French, Victorian and Federal Periods around the early 19th and 20th centuries, antique sofas were designed in a way that it left the wooden frame exposed with needlework covered cushions. During this time, the Chaise lounge designs struck the eyes of many consumers. But in modern times that we're familiar with, sofas were designed low to the ground with short wooden legs and also fully padded. One of the most expensive antique sofas on the market is the 18th Century French Provincial Regence Sofa. This walnut French sofa can cost almost $17,000 but imagine what type of value it would add to your home.

The 19th Century Swedish Gustavian Sofa is from the late 1700s and can also be quite expensive for its material and design. It has nice hand carved designs down the posts, front and sides of the sofa. The antique sofa is very comfortable and constructed with pegged joints that allows it to be sturdy and safe. The Swedish Gustavian Sofa could cost close to $5,000. The Chinese Chippendale Mahogany Framed Sofa is a straight leg style sofa that could give your living room the look you've always wanted. The antique sofa has nice carvings on the wood and the frames on the sofa is designed to last forever. This sofa is not as expensive as the other couches but could cost almost $3,000.

French Victorian Style Antique Sofa Couch Button Back

US $975.00

French Victorian Style Antique Wing Back Sofa Couch

US $900.00

FRENCH ANTIQUE DAYTIME BED SOFA SINGLE BED

US $950.00

There are cheaper antique sofas on the market. Of course the more classier models will cost more money. You could find you an antique sofa that's cheaper than $1,000. The Tufted Leather & Oak Vintage Sofa will cost you close to $800. This antique sofa has a nice, beautiful deep finish, extending 7 feet long, 35 inches tall and 36 inches deep. The sofa is designed to fit up to three people. This could be a nice sofa to have in your living room for your guests. You wouldn't have to worry if they spill juice or liquid on your couch because the leather provides for easy clean up. The Genuine Mohair Carved Vintage Sofa could be another antique sofa you could feature for your guests and friends. It's a little shorter in length than the Tufted Sofa but the springs inside of the sofa gives you great support and the sofa's upholstery is built to last for a long time. This is another sofa under $800.

But if it's the expensive antique sofas you're looking for, then of course there are a ton to choose from. The Louis XV French Provincial 18th Century Sofa is known to cost close to $14,000. The walnut sofa is designed with floral carved frame and shaped skirt resting on cabriole legs. The whole antique sofa is made of light soft blue velvet material, stretching 74 inches wide and giving you 28 inches worth of depth. The Louis XV Corbeille Shaped Aubusson Needlepoint Tapestry Sofa cost about the same as the Louis XV French Sofa but this one is designed a little different. The 19th century antique sofa is designed in a way where the back and front seat cushion features an image of a huge floral laden basket framed in scroll work, leaves and vines. The vines run through the whole exterior of the sofa.

The price on these antique sofas may be mind bottling but for collectors, they will be worth more decades from now. Many people don't realize that a sofa can cost as much as a car or even more. Modern sofas may not be expensive from your local furniture store but when we talk about antique sofas, the price will definitely be in the thousands. The French Louis XIII Style Walnut Os De Mouton Sofa could cost you almost $2,500. The 20th century sofa is made of all solid walnut with a large triple arched seatback. This antique sofa allows you to be able to rest your whole upper body up against the back, without the feeling of your head falling backwards. One great antique sofa for you and your mate that will make you feel like luxury is the 19th Century Herter Brothers Victorian Sofa that could cost almost $5,000. You will feel like the king and queen with this model from its design. Not to mention, it's a high demand antique sofa for the Rockefeller Center and White House!

Antique French Or English Walnut Server Hall Table Sofa Table or Console

US $3,300.00

Bunk Bed Twin over Futon Loft Bunkbed and Sofa

US $824.99

antique john jelliff sofa and arm chair walnut 1860

US $3,000.00

Still deciding on a type of bed for your room? You might want to consider looking into getting an antique bed. Antique beds are starting to become a little popular lately and can add a significant look to your room. Not only are the designs unique on these types of beds, but it can be quite comfortable as well.

BB3026 Antique Victorian Rosewood and Walnut Bed

US $1,250.00

Landon Antique Walnut Full Storage Bed by Powell 503 0

US $1,381.00

Landon Antique Walnut Full Queen Size Panel Bed by Po

US $305.00

Centuries ago, a bed was known as a pile of straw combined together but surely, times have changed. Today, beds are made from all sorts of material. There's all types of antique beds to choose from. Only thing about having an antique bed is it's known to have a problem with fitting your current mattress in the bed frame. But this problem can simply be resolved by changing the rails on the frame.

One type of antique bed is the Antique Louis XV Beds. These types of beds are simple but does feature a curvy style. It was first designed back in the 18th century by Louis the XV, who noticed his gift for designing at a young age. If you're looking for a little design, then you may want to look into antique marquetry beds. These types of beds have a veneer that makes decorative patterns look the same as wood inlay designs. It wasn't until the early 18th century where this style bed became popular but people still love this type of antique bed as of today.

Hooker Furniture Sable Creek Antique White King Panel Bed FREE SHIP EAST CENTRAL

US $850.00

Landon Antique Walnut Full Queen Size Panel Bed by Po

US $305.00

Landon Antique Walnut Twin Size Panel Bed by Powell

US $156.71

Antique beds such as antique panel beds come in many different styles and finishes. This type of bed is known to have one of the most unique painted wood vintage amongst antique beds. But maybe you're looking for a nice bed that would represent you and your spouse. The antique normandy beds features designs based off love and cupid-like pictures. The carved imagery on these beds suits best for couples and married people. But since the economy is kind of rough right now, you may be looking for an antique bed that will last for a long time. Antique iron beds will be the best solution for long lasting beds.

Some antique beds are carved and have Art Nouveau style designs on them while there are some consumers who prefer antique brass beds. Only thing about brass beds is that you'll need steel rails to support and hold your mattress. But some people fall in love with antique italian beds because of their nice upholstery and beautiful hand painted leather. Most of these beds can be worth a ton of money in years to come based on the material its made from.

15588 Antique Unusual Oversize King Size French Oak Bed

US $1,450.00

15591 Antique Oak Carved Bed Marble Top Night Stands

US $1,250.00

FRENCH OAK ANTIQUE COUNTRY BED

US $550.00

Antique oak beds are another type of antique bed that will save you money in the long run. These beds will last you forever because oak is a good type of wood and just like iron beds, you'll basically only have to make a one time investment fee and would never have to buy another bed again. Your only reason for getting another bed would be because another type of bed has caught your attention. As mentioned before, there's all types of antique beds. There's antique cherry beds, mahogany beds, french beds, sleigh beds, metal beds, twin beds, and maple beds.  Sleigh beds are unique in a way where the headboards and footboards are identical to each other and have the same similar curve. These antique beds can be made from wood or iron and are also known as boat beds. Queen size beds are the most recognized sized beds in America and can definitely supply you with the necessary space you need to get a comfortable sleep.

Antique corbeille beds are different indeed. The headboard and footboard is made from basket-like material. They can be kind of similar to antique breton beds because they use similar ornamentation as well. Only difference is breton beds are usually decorated with geometric, animal, or floral shapes. Antique beds are very unique. They are not only used for sleeping purposes, but they can provide us with historical information. The material and designs within the bed is the blueprint for that historical information. For example, it is said that antique beds made from mahogany and walnut represents a person that was very wealthy. Antique beds from China usually features traditional Eastern designs embedded into the wood and most chinese antique beds use this style to stand out as a centerpiece.

If your desire is an older model style antique bed, then you might want to find something similiar to the Antique Henry II Beds. This French style bed reminds you of the renaissance period that stands out for its wreaths and gothic garlands.

Articulate Henry II Bed Antique Ribbon Tied Original

US $1,065.00

Beautiful French Antique Henry II Queen Bed Nightstand

US $2,250.00

Handsome French Antique Henry II Oak Barley Twist Full Size Bed

US $3,750.00

Antique oak furniture is beautiful, durable, and a favorite among those who specialize in collecting antique furniture. Throughout the history of furniture, oak has remained a mainstay due to its many preferable qualities; the strength, weight, longevity, and ease to work with and mold into the designer's plan. Since the seventeenth century, fans of classic, strong looking furniture have chosen oak for their decorative needs. There are several different kinds of antique oak furniture and though they may serve different purposes today than they did hundreds of years ago, the pieces are still highly sought after.

DESK OAK BY JB VAN SCIVER CO BEAUTYFUL ANTIQUE MADE THE OLD FASHION WAY

US $650.00

Antique English Oak Drop Front Desk Filing Music Storage Cabinet End Table

US $615.00

15112 Antique Oak Felt top French Desk

US $1,450.00

Marriage chests are a perfect example of antique oak furniture that no longer serves the same purpose it once did. In the days of the Pilgrims, a new bride would fill the chest with knick-knacks that sparked nostalgia and brought back happy memories of her childhood home. When a bride of that day got married, it was quite common for her to never see her family again. She would bring the chest with her into her new house after the wedding. The marriage chest would remind her of her original home and the fond memories that she grew up with. When the young woman had children and started a family of her own, it was common practice to pass down the memories, stories, and folklore that the chest inspired to her children who would in turn do the same once they started a family. Today, practices have changed and though a woman may get married and move far from her family, it is still quite simple to keep in touch. Marriage chests, then, are used for books, storage, or even just as display. If one owns an original antique oak marriage chest, though, they can only imagine the stories it may contain.

RARE ANTIQUE OAK SALESMANS SAMPLE Miniature EASTLAKE MIRRORED BUREAU DRESSER

US $879.00

Antique Solid Oak Dresser Attached Mirror Original Hardware Finish Clearwater FL

US $179.99

ANTIQUE OAK WELSH DRESSER CABINET SIDEBOARD

US $550.00

Oak dressers are another popular item among collectors of antique oak furniture. In the smaller houses of eighteenth century Wales and the North Eastern United States, the massive cupboards dominated the living areas and must have seemed quite impressive at the time. Today, these highly sought after dressers occasionally make appearances at road shows or auctions and can easily bring in tens of thousands of dollars. Of the antique oak dressers known to be in existence, the oldest recorded one dates about just before 1500. This cupboard is currently in South Kensington Museum located in Great Britain. At the time, the cupboards were used primarily to showcase silver or china place settings. The cupboards were designed with ornate decorations cut into the doors so that any admirers could easily see the fancy and expensive eating utensils inside. It was a way to showcase wealth, although it may have been simply a show seeing as most could afford an oak dresser. Today, antique oak dressers are still used to showcase anything from china dishes to collectors items. No matter what is inside the dresser, the true value lies on the outside with these pieces of antique treasure.

Eastlake Oak Antique Parlor or Lamp Table

US $595.00

Oak Furniture ID$ book Antique Bedroom Dresser Table

US $29.99

Antique Round Oak Table Stool Chair Claw Ball Feet

US $148.00

image source: unforth

The term “dining room” brings memories of family, friends, good conversation and memorable meals. The dining room table, the centerpiece of the room, has certainly evolved in function and style over the centuries. Today, collectors scour antique shows, garage sales, auctions and wherever they feel there might be hope to find the antique dining tables that will complete their collection and possibly, their bank account.

5ft Vintage Heywood Wakefield Solid Wood Dining Table

US $1,195.00

Shabby Cottage Chic White Dining Table 2 Leaf French Vintage Style Roses Long

US $895.00

vintage carved koa dining table 6 chairs hawaiian

US $4,799.99

Eighteenth century American dining included the extensive use of mahogany as the wood of choice. Dining tables tended to be large, up to eight feet in length. They were massive and largely unadorned except for veneer work on the top. Sideboards became a familiar part of the dining room during this era. They were a useful, not a decorative piece for a variety of purposes. Urns were stored on the top, silverware in the drawers and some even had metal lined drawers to keep the plates warm.

Art Nouveau emerged in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. The pieces of unique, elaborate and beautiful design were created mainly for homes, hotels and public buildings. The essence of the style was curves that mimicked nature, such as grass blowing or bending with the wind. The theme was to make you see nature in the piece; a branch growing from a tree or a flower reaching for the sun. Keeping with the theme, carvings included insects, birds or plants. Patterns of curving lines make you visualize a cascading waterfall or clouds rushing through the sky. These stunningly beautiful pieces of antique dining tables are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars today to those who are lucky enough to own one.

15481 Antique French Oak Drawleaf Dining Computer Table

US $685.00

15498 Antique Carved Oak Dining Table

US $875.00

ANTIQUE ROUND DARK OAK DINING ENTRY TABLE W 9 LEAF

US $499.99

Art Deco entered the dining world in the 1930-1940’s with the help of Hollywood, which featured rooms dominated with these pieces in every Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers movie. As they danced around leather high-back chairs, swept by lacquered and veneered antique dining room cocktail tables and served as the center of brightly colored Japanese room screens, fans tried to imitate their decoration style. Art Deco brought mass produced, inexpensive dining furniture to everyday Americans. The dining style was bold yet elegant with simple straight or geometric lines.

Who can forget the homey feeling of the diners in the fifties? The Formica countertops and tabletops were a familiar sight along with the plastic coated benches. This led to what we now refer to a retro style for dining in our own homes. Scandinavian or Danish was the style for the dining table and chairs. The blond wood was the predominantly used wood. Furniture at this time was more functional and had less status as in previous years.

Today, all of these time periods contain antique dining tables that today can be worth thousands of dollars. Antique dining tables can add comfort, class, or nostalgia to any home and make meals an enjoyable thing, if one dares to put food on such a valuable piece of furniture!

Antique solid cherry drop leaf swing leg dining kitchen or sofa table or extra

US $400.00

ANTIQUE SHERATON CHERRY DROP LEAF SOFA DINING TABLE POSSIBLY NEW ENGLAND

US $2,300.00

Antique White and Cherry Oval Dining Table and Six Chairs Free Shipping

US $899.00

Vintage pocket knives are one the most popular collectibles, specifically among men.  Collectors have various motives for acquiring knives, all of which are unique to those individuals.  Some may be determined to collect knives that have handles made of rare or unique materials, while others may look for the decorative aspects of the knife’s handle, which can be simple or very intricate.

Wild Turkey Vintage Collectors dual pack handmade pocket knife set 2 Blade split

US $27.00

Wild Turkey Vintage Collectors dual pk handmade pocket knife set 3 Blade Thick

US $25.00

VINTAGE RANGER POCKET KNIFE ULTRA HONED 3 BLADES COLLECTORS PIECE NO RESERVE

US $5.75

Still others may be passionate about the history or story behind the vintage knife, and are not as concerned about its condition.  The majority of vintage pocket knife collectors do not use their knives for their original purposes, mainly because of their value and in many cases, fragility, depending on their age and condition.  On the other hand, some collectors specifically look for vintage knives in excellent condition with sharp, polished blades (a nice, deep nail pull is a plus) in order to use them. 

Name brands include but are not limited to Imperial, Keen Kutter, Schrade, Syracuse, Sabre, Kutmaster, and Colonial.  

Features such as the blade length (both open and closed), the handle material, and the blade material, are all important when it comes to collecting.  Typical blade length is about 4 or 5 inches, but can vary in size. Handles can be made of a range of materials from bone to brass or wood, and many are etched with designs and various phrases.  Blades are often composed of carbon steel or stainless steel, but can be found made of other materials as well.  Some blades have a smooth edge, while others have a saw tooth spine. The type of cuts you want to make with your knife, or simply your preference for the look of the blade, will help determine your choice. 

Vintage Schrade Walden 881Y NY USA Yellow 3 bladed pocket knife RARE

US $13.50

Vintage SCHRADE USA Stockman Uncle Henry Pocket Knife 885UH

US $19.95

VINTAGE SCHRADE WALDEN 293Y DUAL BLADE POCKET KNIFE IN ORIGINAL CASE

US $54.99

When searching for vintage knives, it is important to take careful note of their descriptions and keep in mind what your ultimate goal is in owning a vintage knife.  For instance, many vintage pocket knives are specifically being sold for their parts.  They may have broken blades, handles, or issues with other parts.  These are sold primarily for collectors who purchase knives in fair or good condition with the hope of using the parts to assemble a “new” knife made of old parts.  For many collectors, the thrill of searching for and finding all the perfect vintage parts to create their “dream” knife is like putting together a puzzle, and the best part of collecting.  

The internet is the best resource when it comes to searching for vintage pocket knives, whether you are just looking for parts or knives in excellent, working condition.  If you are a new collector, guide books are available to help you research various features of pocket knives, also providing valuable advice when it comes to pricing.

2 Vintage Barlow Pocket Knives 1 Imperial 1 Kutmaster

US $19.99

10 Vintage Mixed lot of Folding POCKET KNIVES Military Kutmaster Sabre USA

US $33.50

Lot 19 Vintage Pocket Knives Iroquois Kutmaster

US $51.00

Owning a vintage doll is owning a little piece of history.  Although you will probably display your doll rather than playing with her, you can imagine the stories that little girls about her made up so long ago. It’s amazing to imagine that the little hands which carefully dressed your doll so many years ago, are now probably wrinkled. 

VINTAGE BARBIE CASE WORLD OF BARBIE 1974 FASHION DOLL CASE MATTEL

US $9.99

Vintage old Mattel Kiddles or Ideal Flatsy Rally toy doll green plastic Car

US $4.99

3 Vintage old Mattel Liddle Kiddles toy dolls lot 2 doll heads

US $9.99

Probably the most popular of all collectible vintage dolls are Barbie dolls.  The first Barbie was released by Mattel, one of the most famous doll companies still known today, in 1959.  The original Barbie was blonde and shapely just like modern Barbies, although her makeup was considerably different and matched what was popular among ladies during that time period.  Her tiny, unrealistic waist was criticized and said to be a bad influence for young girls, and consequently, since Barbie's release her waist-line has widened in more recent versions of the doll.  From the time she made her debut, Barbie came with many accessories including a huge wardrobe of clothing for all occasions, and items like clutches, shoes, and hats. 

You may be surprised by just how many features vintage dolls actually have.  

In 1960, Mattel released a doll named “Chatty Cathy,” which was highly sophisticated for its time.  Chatty Cathy spoke 11 different phrases (although an updated version of the doll released in 1963 had a total of 18 phrases) including, “I love you,” “Please take me with you,” and “Let’s play school.”  Her voice came from a simple low-fidelity phonograph record which was carefully concealed in the doll’s abdomen and connected to a string which protruded from her back. A metal coil allowed children to pull the string, prompting the doll to say phrases which were random, depending on how hard the string was pulled. 

VINTAGE 1964 MATTEL SINGIN CHATTY CATHY DOLL

US $31.49

6 VINTAGE DOLLS CHARMIN CHATTY CATHY 1960 GERBER IDEAL REVLON 2 Babies

US $30.00

Chatty Cathy Bad Girl Pirate Dreadlocks Re Born 60s Vtg OOAK Custom Artist Doll

US $140.00

Believe it or not, walking dolls have been around even longer.  In 1950, Artisan Novelty Doll Company manufactured a walking doll named “Raving Beauty.”  She was made of hard plastic and had a small device embedded in her torso that enabled her to walk.  Her legs were set wider apart than those of other dolls of her time, simply because of the mechanism in her wider-than-usual torso.  Raving Beauty’s makers took other important aspects of her body into consideration though. Her legs, for instance, though visibly set apart, were intentionally crafted closely to her body so that dressing and undressing her would be easy for little hands. 

Vintage dolls were more ethnically diverse than you might think.  Although most original versions of dolls in the 50s and 60s were released with blonde hair and blue eyes, in 1962, Mattel manufactured an African American doll that talked.  In addition, the first African American Barbie doll, “Colored Francie,” was released in 1967.  Her release remains somewhat controversial because she lacked African characteristics, and was actually produced using the existing molds for white Barbie dolls; she simply had a darker skin tone.  Still, the release of these dolls in the 60s was revolutionary for the time period. 

In the 50s, most dolls were sold with one simple outfit, always a dress.  But over the next decade, new outfits emerged and dolls’ wardrobes rapidly expanded.  Panties, shoes, socks, sun suits, pinafores, and more were available to beautify dolls.  Other accessories became available as well, such as bibs, slips, aprons, coats, stockings, bonnets and pantaloons.  

Vintage dolls are available to purchase from hundreds of online stores and private sellers.  Prices vary, depending on the doll’s age, condition, and how rare the doll is.

VTG 60S SHANGHAI DOLL FACTORY JOINTED MOHAIR BEAR MINT

US $8.39

African American Tiffany Taylor Black Vintage Ideal Doll 3 Fashions MINT

US $150.00

VINTAGE FRANCIE DOLL 1130 With Hair Bow Stand and Shoes 1966 Original MINT

US $64.00