7 cool things to collect and tips for getting started

So, you’ve decided that you’d like to start up a new hobby by becoming a collector, but you’re not quite sure what you want to collect yet? Such uncertainty is completely understandable because there are so many kinds of collectibles to take an interest in. Luckily, the abundance of options for aspiring collectors also means that there’s something that will suit the preferences of just about everyone. If you’ve been wanting to start up a collection of some sort but you don’t know where to start, consider the following list of the top 7 cool things to collect;

1. Artwork

Collecting artwork is one of those hobbies that only seems fit for the rich and famous but is actually something that anyone can do. Interestingly, many art collectors started their collections by obtaining numerous paintings from a single artist prior to their rise to notoriety. By collecting the paintings and drawings from upcoming artists, you create the possibility of stumbling on an exotic and rare piece that will one day provide a significant return on your investment.

2. Bottle Caps

Collecting bottle caps can be a simple but enjoyable pastime that lets you commemorate some of the fun times you have drinking with friends and family. This is more of a sentimental collecting hobby, as most bottle caps won’t become very valuable over time. However, there are some rare antique bottle caps that sell for high prices. Still, the goal of starting this kind of collection isn’t to earn a profit but to hold onto memories in a tangible manner. You can also use bottle cap maps to store your bottle caps that you collect while you’re on road trips and vacations. 

3. Model Vehicles, Planes, and Trains

Collecting and assembling model vehicles, planes, and trains can be an intriguing pastime that lets you exercise your ability to build and follow instructions. This is one of the oldest and most common forms of collecting. It’s also an ideal option for collectors who have kids because assembling and using the models is a great family activity that lets you practice team work. Some limited-edition models can also become quite valuable over time, so you might eventually reap some monetary reward as an extra benefit. 

4. Bumper Stickers

Collecting bumper stickers might seem like an odd pastime but it is in fact one of the most popular kinds of collecting. They’re cheap and can be ordered in bulk online, so it’s easy to build an extensive collection quickly. They also make great gifts, so you’ll always have a stash of bumper stickers to give away on special occasions like birthdays and weddings. While bumper stickers aren’t exactly the best collecting hobby for making a profit, the sheer variety of available stickers means that there’s an endless sea of exploration available for collectors. 

5. Coins

Collecting coins is one of those hobbies that could actually pay off financially, as there have been many rare coins that have significantly appreciated in value throughout history. Research is the name of the game when it comes to finding special coins that no other collectors in your area will have. Initially, before you gain experience in identifying and appraising coins, it’s best to work with a coin specialist who can help you decide which coins are worth adding to your collection. 

6. Comic Books

Collecting comic books is a great pastime for parents and adolescents for obvious reasons. Not only will this give you something entertaining to read when you get bored, you could also wind up selling rare or limited editions for thousands of pounds down the road. Comic books are also an excellent source of nostalgia and make for ideal hand-me-downs, that can be passed from generation to generation. There’s also a bustling industry of hobbyists to interact and socialise with, so that’s another perk to consider. 

7. Antique Furniture

Collecting antique furniture might seem out of your reach, but you’d be surprised how many times you can find great antiques for low prices or even for free. If you’ve ever seen the Antiques Roadshow or similar televised auctions, then you know that some antique furniture items can sell for many more times than the amount you paid for them. Thus, this is one of those collectibles that could wind up paying up big time in the long run if you end up stumbling upon a highly valuable item. The possibility of selling a piece for thousands also means that antique furniture collectors should have all of their pieces inspected and appraised by an expert. 

You Don’t Need to Be Rich to Become a Collector

Many people believe that you need to be wealthy to start up a decent collection because many collector’s items are rare and expensive. In actuality, there are plenty of collectible categories that are suitable for novice collectors who are operating on a modest budget. In fact, some of the most valuable collectibles of all time started out as cheap toys or novelty items that were very affordable and easy to obtain when they were first released but then gradually become rarer and sought-after over time.