The Uncollectibles
Terry Kovel gave an interview about items that are no longer collectible. Published in the March 15th, 2012 edition of Bottom Line Publications, the article is titled “10 Collectibles NOT Worth Collecting Anymore”.
Most are well-known areas to avoid for most collectors, dealers, and auction houses. There are a couple of areas that benefit from a more in-depth explanation.
Franklin Mint silver medals and bars
Early Franklin Mint medals and bars are frequently silver (coins have dates and denomination amounts.)
Silver prices are on the rise again, so if you can pick them up for the scrap value of the metal, you can hold onto them until prices rise. Just remember that Sterling silver has a fineness of 0.925, which means it is 92.5% silver. If you use the current price of silver per troy ounce, multiply the amount by 0.925 to get your scrap value. Keep in mind there will be a scrap fee and commission unless you deal directly with the foundry, in which case they will charge a scrap fee.
Thomas Kinkade
The other area that needs a bit more discussion is Thomas Kinkade paintings, prints, enhanced prints, artist proofs, and whatever else designation Mr. Kinkade gave his work. It is likely that most people will never recover the retail dollars they paid and ebay buyers do shy away from them.
I was surprised to find that some auction houses have a fair amount of success with them. John Moran Auctioneers recently sold a Kinkade landscape painting, 14″ high x 22″ wide for $3,750.00. While it originally like sold retail in the five figure range, it does show that people still enjoy his work and his message and are willing to pay to own one. An average price at auction for limited editions ranges from $350.00 to $900.00.