At The Poet and The Piper, we have a deep passion for all things vintage, from beautifully crafted antiquities to timeless collectibles.
In the world of antiques and collectibles, terms like antique, vintage, collectible, retro, and antiquities are often used interchangeably, but each has its own distinct meaning.
Understanding these definitions can enhance your appreciation for the items you collect and the art you choose to display in your home. (along side our artwork and prints of course!).
In this blog, we’ll clarify what each term means and how they relate to the broader antiques and collectibles trade. Whether you’re curating a collection or simply looking to decorate your home with Victorian-inspired elegance, this knowledge will help you choose pieces that truly reflect your style.
What Defines an Antique?
The term antique generally refers to an item that is at least 100 years old. This definition is rooted in U.S. law, particularly the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which defined antiques as objects over 100 years of age.
However, some collectors and dealers set the threshold even earlier, defining antiques as items produced before 1830—the period before mass production became widespread in the United States. At The Poet and The Piper, we cherish the craftsmanship and history of antique pieces, but we also recognize that not all antiques are created equal. While some may assume that any item over 100 years old is valuable, this is not always the case. The value of an antique depends on factors like rarity, condition, and demand.
For instance, a handmade marble from the early 1900s might be considered a high-value antique due to its craftsmanship and scarcity, while a mass-produced item from the same era may hold little value. If you’re looking for pieces that evoke the timeless beauty of history, our antique-inspired Victorian prints bring a classic touch to modern home decor, celebrating the spirit of craftsmanship without the unpredictability of the antique market.
What is an Antiquity?
Antiquities refer to objects that were produced in ancient times, generally before the Middle Ages. These items include artifacts from ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, Rome, and prehistoric cultures. Antiquities can range from Roman coins to Native American artifacts, and they are often revered for their historical and cultural significance. Due to their age and rarity, antiquities require special care when collecting, and the market is filled with reproductions. If you’re venturing into antiquities, be sure to consult experts to ensure authenticity.
Understanding Collectibles
A collectible is typically defined as any item that holds value due to its popularity, rarity, or historical significance. However, unlike antiques or antiquities, the value of collectibles is often tied to trends and may fluctuate over time. For example, a Coca-Cola advertising tray from the 1950s might be considered a collectible because of its nostalgic appeal, even though it doesn’t meet the age requirement to be classified as an antique.
Vintage vs. Retro: What’s the Difference?
The term vintage is often used to describe items from a specific time period, generally 20 to 100 years old. For example, a vintage Star Wars action figure from the 1970s is a collectible item that also qualifies as vintage due to its age. However, vintage is a fluid term—what’s considered vintage today may change as time passes. The key is that vintage items are old enough to carry a sense of nostalgia, but not quite old enough to be classified as antiques.
Retro, on the other hand, refers to something that is inspired by or designed to mimic styles from the past. Retro fashion or design trends often borrow from earlier eras but are created in the present. For example, a modern dress made to look like a 1950s design would be considered retro, not vintage. When choosing decor for your home, it’s important to know whether you’re seeking true vintage items or retro-inspired designs. Our Victorian-style prints are a perfect example of retro design, as they bring a modern twist to the traditional art of natural history.
Investing in Antiques and Collectibles
One common misconception is that all antiques and collectibles are valuable investments. While some items do increase in value over time, not every old or rare item is guaranteed to appreciate. Factors like condition, rarity, and market demand play a significant role in determining value.
For instance, a well-preserved Coca-Cola tray from the 1950s might fetch hundreds of dollars at auction, while a similar item in poor condition may be worth far less. At The Poet and The Piper, we believe in collecting for personal enjoyment over potential value, so we would definitley be the ones buying the poor condition tray!
Bringing History into Your Home
The world of antiques and collectibles is rich with history and beauty, and understanding the differences between terms like antique, vintage, and collectible can help you make informed decisions when curating your collection or decorating your home.
At The Poet and The Piper, we take pride in offering a curated selection of antique-inspired prints that bring the timeless elegance of the past into the modern home so they can sit next to your other, timeless treasurers.