Sure, there are lots of pricey antiques and collectibles around. But we're all about bargin hunting and flea market finds, right? For less than $25, you can find lots of great antique and vintage items to collect or use in your home. Check out five favorites here.
1. Depression Glass
Depression glass is one of my all-time favorite collectibles. The colors are glorious, and there are some real bargains to be had if you take the time to shop around. From very usable
sherbet dishes to
cup and saucer sets and pretty
sugar bowls, there's a little something for everyone on a budget in this category. Don't believe me? Take a look at my
Depression Glass Price Guide for a number of low-cost, high-style suggestions to use or display in your home.
2. Figural Costume Jewelry
Figural costume jewelry, especially pins, can still be found for under $25 per piece. In some cases it's far less running in the $5-10 range. Figurals refer to anything shaped like a person or object: monkeys, palm trees, cats, fans, birds and so on. Sure,
older figurals made by the big names can be very pricey, but lots of fun pins are still on the market for way less and they're just as interesting to wear or display.
3. Hammered Aluminum
Hammered aluminum makes a wonderful decorative statement when grouped together and it's far less expensive than
antique silver. Another side benefit, hammered aluminum pieces don't tarnish nearly as quickly as silver but when polished up they have a beautiful shine to them. Hammered aluminum isn't quite as plentiful as it has been in years past, but you can still find plenty of choices for under $25 whether you're
shopping on eBay or at your favorite weekend flea market.
4. Shawnee Pottery
Shawnee Pottery made lots of varied items over the years. From cookie jars that sell in the hundreds to planters that can be had for a buck or two all over the place. The planters, vases and other decorative items Shawnee produced can make up a colorful collection just as easy as the pricier pieces. And because they're inexpensive you won't mind using them to hold fresh flowers or plants, which makes them all the more appealing to savvy decorators.
5. Fenton Art Glass
Fenton art glass is another collecting category that runs the gamut of price ranges, including rare pieces that sell for thousands. However, many Fenton items that are just as lovely can be purchased for less than $25 apiece. Check out eBay for a plethora of options made from the 1950s onward, including Fenton's
milk glass wares. Visit any antique mall in your area and you'll likely net a pretty piece of
art glass that fits well within your budget just as easily.
