Top Ten Gift Ideas for the Antique Collector

Someone who collects antiques might be a bit difficult to buy for when it comes to gift giving. It is not as if you can just pick up a quality antique at the corner store. You can however give them gifts that complement their hobby, and if you have a bit of the collector in you, maybe you can even pick them up a piece or two to complement their collection.

1- Kovels' Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide

With the 2007 version currently selling now, you can be assured that your favorite antique buff can find out just what the current value on their collectibles really is. With the current volume containing over 700 categories and 45,000 prices, your favorite antique collector is sure to enjoy browsing through the pages of this informative book repeatedly.

2- Magnifying Glass

A magnifying glass that can be stashed in a glove box or purse for those times they need to check out a hard to distinguish mark on an unexpected find can be the best gift they will ever receive. Look for a folding magnifying glass in a protective case so that they will not have to worry about it breaking in between uses.

3- Display Case

Depending on what their favorite collectible is, a display case that will both protect and display their wares can be just what they wanted. Do be sure they will have the room to use such a gift if you are giving them anything bigger than breadbox sized.

4- Journal

A blank journal with lots of room for them to fill with information on their favorite antique shops, want lists, and more is a great gift for even someone on a tight budget to give the antique collector on their list. Take it up a step and give one with a leather cover with their initials engraved on it, or an embossed picture of their favorite collectible

5- Subscription to Antique Trader

Antique Trader is America's weekly antiques and collectibles marketplace. It is published every week of the year, meaning a copy will land in their mailbox each week reminding them just how much you care. 6-month subscriptions are also available.

6- Tickets to a Museum

Choose a museum that focuses on vintage and antique wares. Even if the displays are not directly related to what they collect, chances are they will still enjoy it.

7- Folding Chair

If the gift recipient frequents antique fairs that stretch on for blocks or even miles, a folding chair that can be easily taken along will be much appreciated, as it will afford them a convenient way to take a break when they are out pursuing what they love to do.

8- Umbrella

An umbrella to go with the folding chair is almost a necessity for any outdoor antique mall or fair, yet so often, the average antique collector does not bring one along as they are always spending their money on their finds. Shop for one that will work to provide both shade and keep out the rain. Choose either a small one that can be easily tossed into their bag, or a larger one that will attach to their chair, depending on what you think they would be most likely to use.

9- Rent them a Storefront

Most antique collectors love to sell and trade as much as they like to collect. With this in mind, rent them an online storefront, or a booth at a local antique mall for them to sell some of their antiques and collectibles that they would like to dispose of. This might be a gift that should be discussed upfront before giving, unless you know the person well enough (think spouse) that you know it will be just what they wanted.

10- Addition to their Collection

If you are comfortable shopping for their favorite antiques or collectibles, then by all means pick them up a piece that they do not already have. Even a small or inexpensive item will be well received if it is a good fit to their collection. If you are unsure if you will be able to tell the quality or authenticity of something, but still want to go this route, enact the help of a friend who is knowledgeable about these things and make it a joint gift from the two of you.