The Differences between Antique and Vintage Collectible

Depending on your perspective, a year ago might seem like the distant past, or 10 years ago might seem like yesterday. But when you look at aging products, like clothing, jewelry, accessories and products, years become much more crucial.

Unless old items are your area of expertise, the descriptions vintage or antique collectibles might be interchangeable to you. But the distinction between them is essential for many buyers and sellers rummaging through merchandise from the past.

Whether you’re looking through websites, dealer collections or flea markets, you need to define these terms accurately to understand what’s available and valuable. Here’s a look at what each of them means.

What Is A Collectible Item?

For something to be a collectible, collectors need to find it significant or interesting. This broad understanding opens a large variety of goods and memorabilia.

Typically, collectibles fall into common categories, like clothing, cards, coins, stamps and household accessories. Collectors deem items younger than 100 years as collectibles to differentiate them from antiques.

What Is An Antique?

When you hear the word “antique,” images of old brooches and dusty pearls might come to mind. But antiques are more specific than outdated goods. They are noted for their historic contribution and period-specific look.

Objects that are considered antique were crafted at least 100 years ago. The century rule allows a new batch of items to become antique each year. So, even if you think of 1930’s fashion pieces as relics, they aren’t antiques yet. Learn to identify each era or period to spot authentic antiques.

As the oldest designated term, we’re discussing, antiques are rare and costly because they’re far removed from their place in history. You can find antique collectibles at antique shops, shows or malls, and sometimes flea markets, auctions and estate sales can feature antiques, too.

What Is A Vintage Item?

Calling an item “vintage” is more flexible than the antique category because the age and nature of vintage goods is unclear.

Because the term originally applied to wine, the description has developed in a unique way over the years. Now, the essence of the term means a style particular to a certain year that isn’t quite antique.