Selling Sports Memorabilia, Art, Glass, & Other Collectibles
Premium Art Glass Collections
Tiffany Favrile Glass (1890s-early 1900s)
Louis Comfort Tiffany revolutionized the art glass world with his patented Favrile technique, creating iridescent masterpieces that shimmer with otherworldly colors. Each piece features unique metallic lusters achieved through a revolutionary process of embedding metallic oxides into the glass while still molten.
Lalique Crystal (early 20th century)
René Lalique transformed jewelry design into glass art, creating pieces that capture light and imagination. His distinctive style combines frosted and clear glass, often featuring naturalistic elements like flowers, birds, and flowing water. Lalique pieces are renowned for their exceptional detail and sophisticated satin finish.
Steuben Glass (1903-present)
Known for its exceptional clarity and brilliant shine, Steuben Glass represents American craftsmanship at its finest. Their proprietary crystal formula produces pure glass that appears to hold light within itself. Collectors particularly value their innovative designs and flawless execution.
Murano Glass (Venetian)
These pieces, from the legendary Italian island of Murano, showcase centuries-old Venetian glassmaking techniques. Each piece tells a story of artistic innovation, from the famous millefiori technique to the delicate lattimo white glass miming porcelain.
Baccarat Crystal (since 1764)
French excellence in crystal making reaches its pinnacle with Baccarat. Their pieces combine perfect clarity with precise cutting techniques, creating works that range from elegant simplicity to ornate masterpieces. The distinctive red octagonal logo marks each authentic piece.
American Art Glass Heritage
Fenton Art Glass (since 1905)
America’s largest handmade glass manufacturer, Fenton, pioneered numerous techniques, including carnival glass and hobnail patterns. Their innovative use of color and form helped democratize art glass collecting in the United States.
Depression Era Glass
During America’s challenging economic times of the 1920s-1930s, manufacturers produced this distinctive glassware that brought color and beauty to everyday homes. Today, these pieces serve as beautiful reminders of American resilience and craftsmanship.
Carnival Glass
Originally given as carnival prizes, this iridescent pressed glass captures hearts with its rainbow-like surface effects. Each piece displays unique color combinations that shift and change with the viewing angle, making every piece a singular treasure.
Northwood Glass (since 1887)
Harry Northwood’s legacy lives on through his company’s distinctive patterns and innovative glass formulas. Their carnival glass pieces, particularly in their signature iridescent marigold color, remain highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Collecting and Valuation
Understanding these distinctive styles and makers is crucial Whether you’re considering starting a collection or looking to value inherited pieces. Each type of art glass has its own markers of authenticity and value factors, from age and condition to rarity and artistic merit.
At Nelson Estate Jewelers, we appreciate the artistry and history behind each piece. While our inventory constantly changes, we’re always happy to share our knowledge about these remarkable examples of glass artistry and help evaluate any pieces you may have.
Fine Bronzes, Figurines & Statues
Bronze Sculptures
Bronze sculptures represent some of the most enduring and valuable collectible art forms. From classical pieces to contemporary works, bronze sculptures maintain their appeal through generations. Notable artists like Frederic Remington and Auguste Rodin have created masterpieces that continue to be appreciated.
Lladró Porcelain
Since 1953, Lladró has created exquisite porcelain figurines in Valencia, Spain. Their pieces are known for their delicate details, subtle coloring, and emotional expressiveness. Retired pieces and limited editions often command premium prices in the collectibles market.
Notable Collectible Categories
The world of fine figurines and statues encompasses several prestigious makers and styles:
Premium Porcelain Makers
- Meissen (est. 1710) – Europe’s first porcelain manufacturer
- Royal Copenhagen – Known for their distinctive blue and white pieces
- Hummel Figurines – Beloved for their charming child-themed designs
- Royal Doulton – Famous for their character jugs and figurines
Bronze Artistry
- Art Nouveau period pieces
- Art Deco sculptures
- Western bronze sculptures
- Contemporary limited editions
Value Factors
Several key elements determine the value of collectible sculptures and figurines:
- Artist or manufacturer reputation
- Limited edition status
- Condition and patina
- Authentication marks
- Original documentation
- Historical significance
Professional Evaluation
At Nelson Estate Jewelers, we understand the nuances of fine collectibles.
Our expertise helps collectors:
- Authenticate pieces
- Assess condition
- Determine market value
- Make informed decisions about auction versus private sale
Care and Preservation
Proper maintenance is crucial for preserving the value of your collectibles.
We provide guidance on:
- Cleaning techniques
- Display methods
- Environmental conditions
- Insurance documentation
Whether you’re looking to start a collection, add to an existing one, or determine the value of inherited pieces, our team offers expert guidance through every process step. Contact us for a confidential consultation about your fine collectibles.
Vintage & Rare Collectibles
Sports Memorabilia
Vintage baseball cards remain one of the most sought-after collectibles in today’s market. From the rare T206 Honus Wagner to 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle cards, these pieces of sports history continue to be appreciated.
Key factors affecting value include:
- Condition and grading.
- Rarity and print variations.
- Historical significance.
- Player popularity.
Numismatic Treasures
U.S. paper money, particularly rare notes and certain series, holds significant collector value.
Notable categories include:
- Large-size currency notes (pre-1929).
- National Bank Notes.
- Gold and Silver Certificates.
- Error notes.
- Star notes.
Philatelic Collections
Pre-World War II stamps often command premium prices, especially:
- Early U.S. commemoratives.
- Rare postal history items.
- Inverted centers and printing errors.
- First-day covers.
Military Collectibles
Historical military items continue to fascinate collectors worldwide.
Valuable categories include:
- Civil War-era weapons and uniforms.
- World War I & II memorabilia.
- Ceremonial swords and daggers.
- Military medals and decorations.
- Historical firearms.
Authentication & Valuation
We understand the complexities of collectible authentication and valuation at Nelson Estate Jewelers.
Our expertise helps collectors:
- Verify authenticity.
- Assess condition and grade.
- Research provenance.
- Determine the current market value.
- Make informed decisions about preservation or sale.
Market Trends
The collectibles market continues to evolve, with certain categories showing strong growth:
- Vintage sports cards have seen unprecedented appreciation.
- Early American currency remains highly sought-after.
- Military collectibles with documented history command premium prices.
- The condition remains paramount across all categories.
Whether you want to have your collectibles evaluated or are interested in starting a collection, our team at Nelson Estate Jewelers offers expert guidance and fair market valuations. Contact us for a confidential consultation about your vintage collectibles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Art Glass & Collectibles
What types of art glass does Nelson Estate Jewelers evaluate?
We evaluate premium art glass from renowned makers, including Lalique, Tiffany, LCT, Gallé, and Baccarat. Our expertise covers antique and vintage pieces, from decorative vases to lighting fixtures, paperweights, and sculptural works.
How do I know if my art glass piece is valuable?
Several factors determine value in art glass: the maker’s signature or mark, condition, rarity, age, and artistic merit. Premium makers like Tiffany and Lalique typically command higher values. Look for maker’s marks, original labels, or distinctive design elements characteristic of specific manufacturers.
What makes Lladró figurines collectible?
Lladró figurines are valued for their intricate craftsmanship, detailed painting, and artistic expression. Limited editions, retired pieces, and early productions often have a higher value—the condition, original packaging, and certificates of authenticity all impact collectability.
Do you purchase vintage baseball cards?
we evaluate and purchase vintage baseball cards, particularly pre-1980 cards. Value depends on the player, card condition, rarity, and manufacturer. Key cards from players like Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, or Babe Ruth are especially sought after.
What types of U.S. paper money are most valuable?
We’re interested in large-size currency notes (pre-1929), National Bank Notes, Gold and Silver Certificates, and rare Federal Reserve Notes. Condition, serial numbers, and printing errors can significantly affect value.
How do I safely transport fragile art glass for evaluation?
Wrap pieces individually in bubble wrap or soft cloth, using sturdy boxes with plenty of cushioning material. If possible, keep the original boxes. For valuable pieces, we recommend professional art shipping services.
What military collectibles are most sought after?
Civil War items, World War I and II memorabilia, ceremonial swords, medals, and antique firearms are particularly valuable. Documentation of provenance and historical significance increases value.
Why should I consult a dealer before going to auction?
Dealers often provide immediate payment and avoid auction house fees (typically 15-25% of sale price). We can offer expert evaluation, market insights, and sometimes better net returns than auction houses.
How do you authenticate collectible items?
We authenticate items using a combination of physical examination, historical research, and expert knowledge. For certain pieces, we may consult with specialized authenticators or use advanced verification techniques.
What condition issues affect art glass value?
Chips, cracks, repairs, color fading, and wear to original finishes can significantly impact value. Professional restoration may help preserve value, but serious collectors always prefer original condition.
Do you purchase entire collections?
we evaluate and purchase individual pieces and entire collections. Complete collections often have additional value, especially if they represent a comprehensive gathering of specific makers or periods.
What documentation should I bring for evaluation?
Bring any original certificates, purchase receipts, provenance documentation, historical photographs, or family history related to the pieces. This information can help establish authenticity and value.
