How It All Began: My Journey into Collecting
I've been a collector for as long as I can remember. Back in the early '90s—peak basketball era—I was all about basketball cards. Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Larry Bird… if it was a big name, I wanted it in my collection. Then, not long after I joined the military, those cards were stolen. That stung, but it didn’t kill my love for collecting.
Fast forward to adulthood, and my passion for history pulled me back in. Living in the UK changed everything. Over there, you can find early 1900s pieces just sitting in charity shops like they’re no big deal. But to me, they were anything but ordinary. These weren’t just “old things”—they were pieces of history, each with a story. That, combined with my love for economics and business, flipped the switch. Collectibles weren’t just about nostalgia; they had real value, both in history and in dollars.
Some of my best finds? Beautiful Middle Eastern artwork, a small but meaningful crystal collection from my overseas travels, and a shot glass collection packed with decades of memories. But one of my favorites? An Armani “Just Married” statue I found as a Christmas gift for my wife. It’s proof that collecting isn’t just about the item—it’s about the story behind it.
Tips for Starting Your Collection
If you’re just getting started, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way that might help:
Follow Your Passion
Start with what excites you. Maybe it’s history, craftsmanship, the intrinsic value of precious metals, or the artistry of vintage glassware. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of childhood toys. Whatever it is, let your interests guide you—collecting should be something you enjoy, not just something you do.
The Hunt is Half the Fun
Depending on where you live, your options might vary. Estate sales and auctions are my personal favorites, but don’t overlook garage sales, thrift stores, or even Goodwill. Yeah, I know some people have mixed opinions about Goodwill, but I’ve found some incredible pieces there—from stained glass to British-made tea sets.
Do Your Research
Knowledge is everything, especially when you’re diving into niche collectibles. Coin collecting, for example, isn’t just about finding old coins—it’s about understanding mint marks, condition, and even rare errors. With crystal, being able to identify authentic Waterford or Swarovski can be the difference between scoring a deal and overpaying for a knockoff.
Start Small, Stay Smart
It’s easy to go overboard when you’re new. Set a budget and take your time learning as you go. Crystal is a great starting point because it’s relatively easy to identify and holds its value well. And most importantly—have fun with it. No need to chase perfection!
Collecting as a Way to Preserve Wealth
One of the best parts of collecting? It can be a smart way to preserve wealth. Take crystal, for example. In my experience, all crystal holds some level of value. A set of Waterford glasses that you pick up for $40-$60 can often be resold or pawned for nearly the same amount—sometimes even more, depending on the market. And when you factor in inflation, keeping tangible assets like this beats sitting on cash.
Precious metals are another solid choice. I’ve been involved in silver and gold for over 15 years, and I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned. Whether it’s bullion, rare coins, or vintage jewelry, these pieces aren’t just beautiful—they offer real financial security.
How Guided Collectibles Can Help
At Guided Collectibles, we aim to make collecting easy and affordable. We price our items fairly, so you get great value without breaking the bank. And with flat-rate shipping—just $5.99 for domestic orders and $59.99 for most international orders—you can shop with confidence.
If you’re new to collecting, I always recommend starting with crystal or art. Many of our art pieces are appraised at way higher values than what we sell them for, making them a great investment. And of course, our precious metals are always a smart buy.
Let’s Hear From You!
Now it’s your turn—I’d love to hear about your collecting journey.
- What’s the first collectible you ever owned?
- What’s a dream item you’d love to add to your collection?
Drop your thoughts in the comments—I can’t wait to hear your stories!
Collecting isn’t just a hobby. It’s a way to connect with history, preserve wealth, and find joy in the little things. Whether you’re just starting out or have been at it for years, Guided Collectibles is here to help every step of the way.
Until next time—happy collecting!
Disclaimer: I’m not a financial advisor—just someone who’s been immersed in the world of collecting, history, and economics for years and loves sharing what I’ve learned. While I’m happy to share my experiences and tips, I encourage you to do your own research and make decisions that are right for you. Collecting is a journey, and everyone’s path is unique!Have thoughts or questions? I’d love to hear them—feel free to comment below and join the conversation!