Start collecting these things now and make a fortune later
Usually when we think of investing we think of shares and properties, not board games and stamps. However, investing in collectibles could make you a millionaire. Back in 1996, a single stamp (the “Tre Skilling Banco yellow” Swedish stamp) sold for US $2.3 million – for one tiny piece of paper!
So, if you aren’t already, it’s time to get collecting! Here are 5 collectibles which could make you a fortune down the track.
Board games
Yes, your favourite childhood board game could leave you set for life. Special edition board games in particular are hugely valuable, as are vintage favourites in good condition or anything that is no longer in production. Got an old English classic like Buccaneer, Escape from Colditz or Escalado? You could be sitting on a few hundred dollars.
Stamps
While the stamps you collect may not quite reach that $2.3 million mark, many Aussie, English and Canadian stamps are worth a few thousand each. Plus, they generally grow in value the older they get, so this is definitely one to get the grandkids into while they’re young!
Dolls
Who hasn’t played with a Barbie doll or G.I. Joe before? These classic toys, if still in good condition, can easily fetch $500. Certain action figures, Beanie Babies and vintage porcelain dolls are also highly sought-after. Like any of the items on this list, it’s best to do a bit of research before buying or selling.
Coins
If you’ve been lucky enough to travel the world, you’ll have inadvertently collected countless foreign coins and probably stashed them away somewhere. Well, those bits of cash gathering dust in your cupboard could be worth thousands of times their original value. Any coin that is no longer in mint, especially pre-decimal currency and pre-euro European pieces could be worth tens of thousands.
Books
Love to read? If you still have some books from your childhood or teen years that are still in good condition, your collection may have already begun. First editions and limited editions are without a doubt the most sought-after items in the book collecting world. If you’ve inherited a first edition of The Great Gatsby, you’re in luck – it’s currently valued at almost half a million dollars!
The best way to get started with a collection is to simply figure out what it is that you love and want more of. Music lover? Vinyl continues to grow in popularity. Film buff? Old movie posters and film memorabilia often sell for thousands. Once you’ve found what it is you want to collect, the next step is to do you research. Nowadays with the Internet, many people selling what you want are aware of its value and it’s possible you won’t get the best price. Instead, head off the beaten track and spend some time in antique stores and second-hand shops. You never know what you might find!
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