The Art of Diecast Collecting
There are the Jay Lenos and Jerry Seinfelds of this world who own rare cars and motorcycles they house in climate controlled environments - motor museums for the rich and famous. But, most car collectors around the world opt for cars of more modest size and investment. The die cast collector crosses all social and economic boundaries - from people who buy affordable miniatures just for fun to collectors who engage in auctions where a model can fetch hundreds of dollars or more.
History on Small Wheels
Model cars first appeared in England and the U.S. in the early 1900s. Unlike the detailed die cast models of today, they featured painted shells and no interior adornment. They were also made of metal alloys that that didn’t stand the test of time - they rusted and cracked, and few survive today. But, it wasn’t long before manufacturers caught on to the idea that there was a market for model cars, trucks, airplanes and farm equipment. As popularity increased, so too did the quality of manufacturing and attention to detail.
Matchbox cars made in England by Lesney appeared in 1947 and started a new trend. The fledging company’s first blockbuster was in 1953 when a million miniatures of Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation Coach were sold. But, the Matchbox concept was inspired much closer to home for Jack Odell (co-owner of Lesnsy) when he designed a toy that could be taken to school by his daughter. School rules dictated that only toys capable of fitting into a matchbox would be allowed in the classroom. Odell complied with the rule by making a miniature car with rolling wheels and sent his daughter off to school with a toy that became the first Matchbox car and the first page in a mass marketing success story.
Each tiny car fit neatly inside a box the size and design of the traditional matchbox. Every line of cars had 75 different vehicles and gave people - children and adults - a body of styles to collect, trade and save.
At the same time, other die cast cars hit the fast lane. In the 1950s Mettoy, producer of the popular Corgi brand, paid particular attention to interior detail and installed clear plastic in window frames. Miniatures with such detail went beyond simple toys to collectibles.
Precious to Popular
Then, in 1968, Hot Wheels got the rapt attention of America’s boys. Hot Wheels was Mattel’s plan to reach the market of boys in the same way that Barbie Dolls had captured the attention of girls. The idea was wildly successful and introduced the concept of collecting to young boys who might one day become adult collectors of more sophisticated die cast cars.
In the ensuing years, die cast manufacturers were increasingly focused on the collectors’ market. Mainstream corporate customers saw the value of having their logo and brand on vehicles and Sears, Coca-Cola, Texaco and other companies ordered die cast models bearing their signatures.
Manufacturing Market Changes
For many years, these detailed models made with increasing accuracy and quality were produced in the U.S. and Great Britain. But, by the 1980s, the economic climate changed as a worldwide marketplace emerged. The cost of domestic manufacturing didn’t match revenues and many companies declared bankruptcy or traded hands. Production moved in a great exodus to China and other Far Eastern centers where cheaper labor was available. Mattel was among the first to make the big shift and was rewarded with continued success. Mattel eventually bought Corgi and Matchbox.
Collectors Expect Quality Control
Many other die cast manufacturers joined the movement and, today, there are hundreds of companies offering die cast models of varying cost and quality to collectors all over the world. It would be a mistake, however, to assume that die cast quality went down along with domestic production. Since the market is so competitive and demand for quality among collectors is very high, producers in Hong Kong, Makau, Indonesia, Shanghai and elsewhere are under a bright spotlight.
World over there are die cast clubs that cater to collectors of specific models. There are online auctions in which rare models are purchased for record high prices and collector forums where fans exchange ideas and trade cars. Die cast models seem to capture the fascination of people from all walks of life and economic standing. Affordable, accessible and, at the same time, exclusive and rare, die cast cars appear to have built a significant niche in the world of collecting.
Visit us to see our complete line of model cars and diecast cars including BMW Diecast Model Cars
Invest in Platinum with American Platinum Eagle Coins
The American Platinum Eagle is the official platinum bullion coin of the United States of America. It is one of three coins offered under the Congressionally authorized American Eagle Bullion Coin Program, along with Gold and Silver Eagles coins. Platinum Eagles have proven themselves to be popular with both precious metals investors and coin collectors.
Platinum Eagles were first issued in 1997. Authorization for the new coins came from the Omnibus of Consolidated Appropriations for Fiscal Year 1997 (PL 104-208). Coins were released under US Mint Director Philip N. Diehl and US Treasury Secretary Robert E. Rubin.
The coins are minted to exacting specifications and are guaranteed for weight, content, and purity by the United States Government. Coins are offered in four different denominations, each with a specific fractional amount of .9995 fine platinum. The $100 face value coin contains one ounce of platinum, the $50 face value contains one-half ounce, the $25 face value contains one-quarter ounce, and the $10 face value contains one-tenth ounce.
Platinum Eagles are offered in either uncirculated or proof versions. The uncirculated version of the coin is offered through a network of authorized bullion dealers at the spot price of platinum plus a mark up. The proof version of the coin is offered directly from the US Mint to coin collectors. Prices are set each year, but can be adjusted in the event of a significant change in the market price of platinum.
The design used for the obverse of the coin is a rendition of the Statue of Liberty by US Mint Sculptor/Engraver John Mercanti. The design used for the reverse of the coin is an image of a soaring Bald Eagle by Thomas D. Rogers.
Starting with 1998, the reverse of the proof version of the coin began to feature a rotating design under the Vistas of Liberty series. This program lasted for fives years and used designs which highlighted natural landscapes of the United States.
Recently, the Platinum Eagle Coin series celebrated its tenth anniversary. In celebration, the US Mint issued a special 10th Anniversary Set. This set included two half-ounce platinum eagle coins. One featured a standard proof cameo finish, with frosted raised design elements over a mirrored background. The other featured a special reverse proof finish. This type of finish has mirrored raised elements and a frosted background, the reverse of the traditional proof style.
In recent years the price of platinum has experienced significant gains impacting the affordability of the series for some collectors. When Platinum Eagles were first offered in 1997, the market price of platinum was roughly $400 per ounce. Early in 2008, the market price of platinum exceeded $2,000 per ounce. This has resulted in substantially higher offering prices for the coins, which may keep some collectors on the sidelines.
Michael Zielinski is an internet entrepreneur and coin collector. Learn more about Platinum Eagles including coin information, images, and mintages. Stay up to date with the latest coin collecting news.
The Care and Feeding of Die Cast Collections
There are die cast model cars and then, well, there are toys. Where is the dividing line and how to serious collectors of die cast vehicles judge the quality of their collections? Like most things, there’s more to this collecting passion than meets the eye.
Die cast collectors must consider a number of factors that are shared by people in the larger collecting world. How common or rare is a piece they own, what’s the condition, who made the item, is it associated with an important event or person, is it part of a complete set or one-of-a kind?
Quality Components
Since the quality of die cast vehicles has evolved over the past century, the value of a car may be related to the year it was produced. Most of the cars manufactured in the early 1900s were made with metal alloys not nearly as durable as today’s metals and polymer plastics. They were simple shells, with painted exteriors and interior details such as steering wheels, seats and dashboards. In this case, owners of early die cast model cars might expect a little rust or hairline cracks on their collectible. However, the fact that they own an intact die cast car from this era is a rarity. Of course, the better the condition, the higher the value.
As die cast vehicles became more popular, they also became more detailed. Interiors of cars and trucks were faithfully reproduced. More innovations such as working steering wheels and doors were introduced. The industry became increasingly competitive and some die cast cars were treated like jewelry - polished and presented in the finest detail and packaging possible. Limited editions were introduced specifically to interest the growing number of serious collectors who could count on rarity to enhance their investment.
Getting Serious about Die Cast
A culture developed along with the number of casual and serious collectors. There were questions about how best to preserve and display die cast collections. People were interested in the value of their pieces and completing entire themed collections. For many people, die cast collecting moved from a hobby to a serious passion.
Like all collectors, the buyer is expected to be the ultimate judge of his or her die cast investment. The value of a model is often in its adherence to exact historical detail. Buyers purchase models from manufacturers they trust have done research and cut no corners when it comes to accuracy.
It’s said that a perfect model is one that looks like the real thing, displayed on a showroom floor and ready to be driven away. That means paint jobs and upholstery must reflect historical reality - not the whimsy of the manufacturer. For cars of appropriate eras, working doors, trunks, hoods and other moving parts should be operational. In these matters, an educated collector has the edge on the casual buyer. Collectors not only know the details of the cars, they know which manufacturers adhere to precise detail and deliver what’s promised.
Maintaining and Maturing
Collections also require care from the moment of purchase. Experts advise owners to apply a thin coat of wax to new die cast models using a very soft cloth and Q-Tips to get into the corners and crevasses. Only a light application of wax will help repel dust and clean up any hairline scratches that might mar the finish. They caution to not spray wax directly on the model because wax can build up and dry in places you can’t reach - a cotton cloth instead of a chamois is recommended. Once waxed, a quick buffing makes the model ready for brilliant display.
That said, it’s often the untouched die cast replica that commands the highest prices. In the collecting niche this is known as Mint in Box (MIB). All the packaging and foam that protects the model is untouched and the accompanying paperwork is saved. Some collectors find this level of “investment” isn’t quite as enjoyable as handling and arranging their collections so cars can be appreciated from all angles. Of course, these cars require careful dusting with soft cloths and small, soft bristled brushes from time to time.
There are several group websites and auction sites to help collectors assess the value of their die cast treasures. Whether for pleasure or profit - or perhaps both - die cast model collectors share a love of nostalgia and accuracy for vehicles that never have to stop at the pump to keep on providing pleasure.
Visit us to see our complete line of model cars and diecast cars including Porsche Diecast Model Cars
Barbie Dolls - Girls Best Friend
For a small girl, playing with toys seems natural and enjoyable too. She can even have her own Barbie house, play room, and such other accessories along with the doll. There are also websites of Barbie dolls, where the person can get to personalize or change the Barbie doll web page as per their taste. This web page includes Barbie doll dresses, her room style, pets and such things.
There are some fantastic types of Barbie dolls for the girls on Barbie doll websites too. These include Farm girl style Barbie, Red Carpet style Barbie, Campus Sweetheart Barbie doll, My Melody Doll, Kimora Lee Simons Barbie doll and many more. The Barbie doll has been designed to show that women can handle and accept a range of roles in their life. The Barbie doll has been sold with various titles like Doctor Barbie, Nascar Barbie and Miss Astronaut Barbie doll too.
However, even if there is a lot of criticism showered on the Barbie dolls, a lot of girls still love such dolls as they take her to be their role model. The doll has expanded her horizons too with changing times. Barbie dolls are available, as a business woman, police officer, athlete, girl draped in sari and many more roles.
Anyone interested in collecting these amazing dolls can get to join the Barbie fan club, get renewals on sale and view the collector dolls around the world and many more. One can either buy such wonderful dolls from toy shops or browse through websites and search their choice of dolls and buy these online.
The Barbie doll is one of the best selling dolls in the global market. The concept of this doll was introduced by Ruth Handler, who is the creator of the Barbie doll. It has been around fifty years or so for Barbie as an important part of the fashion toy doll market. As the years have passed, there have been a lot of controversies and lawsuits on the concept of the Barbie doll and her lifestyle.
The prime Barbie doll has zebra striped swimming suit and a ponytail too. This doll was available to both brunette and blonde girls to play with. Barbie dolls were primarily produced in Japan and her clothes were stitched by the Japanese home workers. Moreover, approximately 350,000 of them were sold during the commencement year itself.
The full name of Barbie is Barbara Millicent Roberts and her parent’s names are George and Margaret Roberts from Wisconsin. Barbie doll also has some friends, namely Hispanic Teresa, Steven, Midge and Christie who is African American. There are various other toys along with the Barbie doll which a girl can enjoy. These include pets like cats, dogs, horses, rabbits, a lion cub, a zebra and a panda too. One can also get wide range of Barbie related vehicles like trailers, jeeps and pink convertibles. There are also a lot of dress accessories, hair styles and make-up kits along with the Barbie doll.
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls. You will find the best marketplace for kids toys, stuffed animals, and dolls at these sites for toys, stuffed animals, and Barbie dolls.
Do You Have Any Have Collectable Coins?
Old coins that is. Try looking under that old dresser, or up the attic where grandma or grandpa’s things may be stashed away patiently waiting for you to discover them. Who knows, you might find a coin there, an old coin that - at today’s rate - may be worth a few dollars; probably three or four or five, even ten times what the coin was worth back then.
A penny a day, is worth okay
Fortunately or unfortunately, there was a shortage of copper during the year 1943 and all pennies made at that time were minted using steel. There were however, some Lincoln pennies that were incorrectly minted on bronze that turned out to be blanks. A few years or decades later -these bronze pennies became a rarity and are valuable. The steel ones though, because of their commonality, are worth only between one to three dollars each.
Be aware and be wary as there are schemes where gullible coin collectors are sold coins that are copper plated in an attempt to make these pennies appear to be bronze. Also, keep your guard up anytime someone offers you a circa 1943 penny made out of a metallic white alloy.
Old coins are good coins
Coins, specifically the silver dollars made and circulated between the years 1878 and 1935, are worth between twelve dollars and twenty five dollars for the circulated coins. The coins that were not in circulation are worth considerably more.
Meantime, those quarters, dimes, or half dollar coins made and circulated prior to 1965, are usually made out of ninety percent silver and therefore worth as much as today’s silver (with an additional premium, albeit small, put on the coin’s face value).
Wrong pennies are right
There is a Lincoln penny issued in 1972 on which the date and the letters on it appear to have been doubled. This rare coin is currently worth about sixty dollars, assuming the pennies are in standard condition. The Philadelphia Mint during that time period accidentally misaligned the die used in minting the coins causing the portrait of Lincoln to look like it was doubled. Fortunately or unfortunately, eighty thousand of these were circulated before the error was discovered.
In summary, coin collecting is similar to collecting bits of history and trivia from the past. In addition to the face value its worth as a treasure - pennies, dimes and coins - often are worth more in the long run.
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate Programs
For more information and resource links on collectable coins visit: Rare Coins
Coin Collecting Album: A Pocket for Your Coins?
For every numismatist or coin collector, finding a good place to store their coins is the most important thing in this world because storing their precious coins in a good and secure place will ensure that the quality and value of their coins is maintained…
There are many types of storage spaces that can help you by displaying and storing your coins. You can either use folders, holders, plastic tubes, or the album, but among these reliable storage spaces, the coin collecting albums are the best way to display the coins.
If you want to know why, here are some benefits of albums and you can evaluate the concept from there:
1. Two-way image viewing
With coin collecting albums, you can get more satisfaction viewing your collections because albums let you see both sides of your coins. You do not have to remove your coins every time you want to see the opposite side.
Therefore, albums give you the best of both worlds.
2. Better defence against instant wear
Another benefit of albums over folders and other coin storage is that it gives the coins better defence against harmful elements that will expedite the deterioration of the coins.
Albums are generally characterized by the use of plastic materials that serve as shield against scratches and environmental factors.
3. Good coin holder
Albums provide pockets for coin storage. The best thing about using a pocket is that even ‘dilapidated’ coins or extremely worn coins are better protected.
Worn out coins, when placed in folders, have the infuriating tendency of falling out over and over again. With coin collecting albums they are kept intact.
4. Variation in prices
Albums that are used in coin collecting are usually priced from $20 to $40. Even though they can be expensive, they provide better storage for your most-prized treasures. Paying the price for an album is a great alternative to the other typical types of storage.
5. Information center
Coin collecting albums are great ‘information centers’ as far as the hobby is concerned because most of the albums that are used in collecting coins have an inside front cover| that allows you to place important information regarding your collection. It also has a back cover that provides space for your ‘mintage figures’.
Coin collecting is easier and more pleasant with the help of these albums. It makes your treasures last longer, thus, establishing greater value in them.
Therefore, coin collecting albums are definitely the best ‘keepers’ for your coins.
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate Programs
For more information and resource links on collectable coins visit: Rare Coins
Ancient Coins as Collections
Collecting coins is so much fun! It is both a hobby and a source of income for many. One type of coin that you may want to consider collecting is ancient coins. Many collectors hesitate to buy ancient coins to collect because they can be terribly expensive. What is most important is the uniqueness of these coins and the benefits they provide their collectors.
Here are some tips that should be considered when buying ancient coins:
1. Conduct a research of ancient coins. It is important that a collector is aware of what coins are considered ancient. It does not require a collector to go to a library since many websites on the Internet can provide all the information needed to become well-informed about ancient coins.
2. There is a wide variety of ancient coins available for collectors. A collector can choose from different eras and civilizations. He can choose from a Chinese civilization, ancient Rome, Greek, Persian, etc. It is preferable for a collector to focus on a specific group or era when collecting coins.
3. Once a selection has been made, a collector may then focus on the buying of these coins. To start select coins that are least expensive set a price range such as $20. Once the collection grows, he may then want to start buying the more expensive coins.
4. A collector may also try searching for ancient coins at auction houses or online auctions where ancient coins are available. Always be aware of possible fraud no matter which venue you are using and take extra care in buying coins at online auctions.
5. It is also suggested that the collector make a list of the ancient coins that he would like to buy. He can list them according to his order of preference which will make his search for ancient coins an easier task. Included on his list should be the amount he is willing to spend on a certain type of coin. The list will be helpful whether online or at an auction house, enabling him to manage his budget easily.
6. It is important to have a separate holder for his ancient coin collection or his other collections. Separate holders will help the collector organize and preserve his coins. Ancient coins are generally more expensive than other collectible coins so it is necessary for a collector to know the proper care for them.
Ancient coins should not intimidate coin collectors. They are an exciting way to enjoy the hobby of collecting coins. Not only do they provide fun but they serve as a source of knowledge for many coin collectors.
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate Programs
For more information and resource links on collectable coins visit: Rare Coins
Accessories for Coin Collection
When collecting coins, one thing to consider is how to arrange and take care of the coins. Coins that are collected may be antique, ancient, or limited editions coins. These coins come from many countries and are usually high in value. A collector must know how to keep and take care of them so that they will retain the same appearance and value.
One way to take care of coins is to purchases selection of coin accessories. Not only are coin accessories used to make a coin collection presentable and organized; but the primary purpose of coin accessories is to take care and preserve the coins.
When buying coin accessories it is important to choose those accessories that will best satisfy the needs of the collector. Some of the factors that you might want to consider are durability, price and usefulness.
Many coin accessories can easily be found in collectible stores and even online. Here are some coin accessories that may be considered:
Coin Boxes
Coin boxes are the most common sought for coin accessories as they are very convenient to coin collectors and specialists. The compartments of the box provide for easy location of the coins. The compartments are also wide, which provides flexibility in placing the coins. The wide compartments also allow the collector to handle the coins the proper way.
Coin Albums
Coin albums are similar to any typical album with the difference being that the coin album is especially designed to hold coins. A coin album has with it a transparent layer that aids in the protection of the coins. The collector does not need to handle the coins one by one. All he has to do is turn the pages and the coins are all there protected from improper handling.
Coin Holders
Coin holders are best for those collectors who collect coins during their travels. They allow portability of the coin collection. In addition, the collector does not need to carry his entire collection. He can simply place a single coin in the coin holder. Coin holders provide safety for the coins and prevent a coin from the many elements that may depreciate its value.
Other coin accessories can be found in the market. Determine the primary purpose of the accessory and if it can satisfy your needs. Prices will differ depending on the durability of the accessory. Research the many coin accessories that are sold and compare prices before choosing one.
Uchenna Ani-Okoye is an internet marketing advisor and co founder of Free Affiliate Programs
For more information and resource links on collectable coins visit: Rare Coins
The Art of Collecting Gold Coins
Collecting gold coins falls into several different categories and I’m only going to mention a couple.
There are historical gold coins minted by an actual mint controedl by a government. Collecting gold coins is a nice investment because gold is appreciating in value and easy to keep in your house or in safe keeping box in your bank. Monaco Rare Coins is selling coins in gold, silver and other gold form. Collecting gold coins can make something special for your family, specially if the coin you collect in the future increases value.
Collecting gold coins, however, can be both fun and profitable if you go about it the right way. With gold values increasing some 200 percent over the past several years, the time is right to get into this exciting and profitable and fantastic hobby. Because it is important to make this point clear, collecting gold coins can be both a hobby and a source of income.
To start explaining about gold coins, we need to go a long time back in history and explain how coins in the history of mankind were issued in Lydia more than 3000 years ago. So this means you have over tre thousand years of history to find the perfect coins for your collection.
Rare coins are truly a challenge for anyone who seeks to make this a mission in life. Not only are they hard to find but it they are expensive to acquire. Rare coins that are extremely hard to find are often valuable and when found can be a good investment. The rare coin collection market in the United States has boosted their sales in recent years from 349% to 1, 195%. That is a huge increase, compared to any other market.
Some other interest field in gold coins is the coins collected from Latin America. Advanced civilisations in ancient Peru, Columbia, Guatemala, and Mexico gathered great caches of gold coins, jewellery, and treasures. In the United States gold coins were withdrawn from circulation, but silver token coinage was retained until 1964 while silver coins were not worth more than face value until the inflation of the 1970’s.
If you are interested in gold coins they can be purchased from precious metals firms, coin dealers as well as individual investors. But be aware if you decide to buy rare gold coins, the coins should be accompanied with some type of authenticity certificate from an independent coin sellingservice.
Like any other business or hobbie, there are a number of trade secrets that make real coing gold collectors, successful collectors. First, try to find coins with rarity. Keep in mind that gold coins are a great investment idea for someone looking to diversify their portfolio, the reason is pretty easy to understand buying gold coins is a popular way of holding gold due to their availability in different sizes to meet the needs of different classes of investor and collector.
To many new collectors out there, buying gold coins may seem intimidating but it is really simple if you follow a few basic rules: Learn how to choose reputable gold bullion shops and buy gold from trusted stores. Go for rare coins, and be patient, you will make a profit on the long run, you just need to buy for the right price and sell later on your gold coin and double or triple your profits. Good luck.
Joaquin has wrote a few articles that have been published regarding the collection of dollar gold coins and Gold buffalo coin.
The Knives of Our Ancestors are Valuable Antiques
The fighting knife has been around as long as men have armed themselves to protect life and country. Whether you search for specific hunting, survival, or tactical weapons, here is a sample of what every serious collector should hold in his coveted knife collection.
Letus begin with the most influential design of perfection in the twentieth century, the Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife. The original Fairbairn-Sykes was taken out of commission but is now once again on the market. A good testament to a great weapon is the men who designed the knife actually use it. Warriors have charged their enemy with the Fairbairn-Sykes knife for almost half a century. Combat soldiers carried this knife during countless battles fought by American and British Special Forces. CIA and FBI undercover agents consider this knife a no- brainer addition to any homeland security operation. Thousands of lives have been lost under this blade but thousands more were saved in the process. The Fairbairn-Sykes is a masterfully constructed, straight-bladed, double-edged weapon, much like a dagger.
A look back into the past of the United States wild frontier shows Arkansas was a rough place during the 1830s. Tough Americans whittled out a place for heroic tales and brave deeds in the hard fight for honor and prosperity. James Black, an Arkansas blacksmith, is by many accounts, the maker of the Bowie Knife. Blacks knives were copied in England and sold in America as the Arkansas Toothpick. Jim Bowie became legend after the famous Sandbar Duel in 1827 with reportedly a knife made for him by Black. After Jim Bowie was killed at the Alamo in 1836, the Bowie knife became firmly established in his name as a lasting tribute. The Bowie Knife saw more action in the American Civil War as arms for the Confederacy. A Bowie knife requires minimum maintenance and is practically immune to the after effects of water, salt, air, or humidity.
The Trench Knife is one sharp looking classic piece of manpower known as a knuckle knife. The US Armys first attempt at a trench weapon was the M1917/18 trench knife. The knife has a wicked triangle blade and the knuckle bow varies according to the manufacturer. The M1918 Mark I is the knife most people think of when the word- trench knife- is thrown around. Major McNary was the designer using the identical blade design as the French M1916 trench dagger. No American home should be without one of these witnesses to our militarys history. The McNary trench knifes cutting edge was widely used in World War 11, up to the Vietnam War conflicts.
Last but not least for every survivalist is the popular Ka-Bar Knife sometimes called K-Bar Knives. They are extremely sturdy, dependable, and rugged knives, much like their official sponsors, the USMC and the United States Army. These quality knives were the prized possession on the side of every fighting Marine during WW11. Owning one of these knives is part of preserving our national heritage- standing for the trials our ancestors faced and won for the right of freedom.
It is the privilege of human beings to live under the laws of justice and mercy.-
Wendell Berry
The Fighting KnifeTupper Wheatley has held an immense fascination for the fighting knives of history. Join him at his website for more information.
