Vintage Definition | Antique Definition

In 1930, the US Customs office passed a law that referred to antiques as "anything produced prior to 1830" when mass production became common. This law was to help determine if an item would be allowed in the United States duty-free (no tax).

In 1966, due to the law being outdated, it was changed. It simply read that an item needed to be 100 years old or older to determine if it was an antique. The age of the item was used soley as the guide to tax or not to tax.

In 1993, the law evoleved even more. It still read that an antique was to be 100 years of age or older but the following conditions were added:

• If the item has been repaired or restored, it must retain the original character
• Repairing an item using modern manufactered items is allowable as long as the original character is not changed and
• Any antique that is more than 50% repaired or restored is no longer considered to be an antique and will be subject to duty tax.

Source: US Customs and Border Protection Heading 9706

While this modern definition is rather in depth, a lot of dealers and serious collectors are purists and follow, at least, the 75 to 100 year old guide. 

"Vintage" items today, have the opportunity to become tomorrow's antiques. Now you can enjoy antique shopping better informed.

The age old adage is still true today. Most items people collect are old. This means they were pre-owned and used. No matter what you collect -- Viking Glass, Fostoria, vintage toys, antique furniture -- as a buyer, live by the Latin phrase: Caveat Emptor or "Let the buyer beware". 

Unfortunatly, not everything for sale in person or on the web is authentic. You have to use your own judgement and live with your decision. Ask for help from any experts you know but, ultimately, it's your hard earned money you will spend. Make sure the item is really what is being advertised. 

I have seen dealers as well as normal people selling items that are mislabeled. I, personally, like to believe it is from lack of knowledge more than from them attempting to mislead a prospective customer.

Values of antiques and vintage items are only a guidline -- a ballpark figure -- a starting point. 

There is a difference between "worth", market value and sentimental value of any item. All of these values can have a dollar amount attached by the owner and they can vary widely. 

If you own a Hoosier cabinet that used to belong to your grandmother, there is sentimental value attached that does not necessarily equate to market value. The condition, production year and a host of other variables will dictate a market value.  

Bottom line is, if you want to sell something, the value is only as much as a buyer is willing to pay. For instance, a book can tell you your vintage Coca-Cola serving tray from the 1940's is worth $100. However, if you can't find a buyer willing to pay that, then the actual market value is lower.  

Vintage With A tWist
Antiques, Collectibles and Restyled Home Decor