First, let me start by saying I am no expert in the area of Victorian Trade Cards BUT I have learned quite a bit in the last few years. 

I think most sellers can agree that the hunt is by far and away the best part of what we do. To me, there's nothing better than my Sunday afternoons at a nearby flea market. It's completely relaxing and makes for the perfect getaway if only for a few short hours. Coming home with that amazing find is euphoria but the truth of the matter is that regardless of how much I love those Sunday excursions I could never find enough at just that one venue. In order to continuously fill a shop it becomes necessary to find other sources.

When did the twenty-first century officially begin—January 1, 2000 or January 1, 2001? The great debate of ten years ago has reached “who cares” status. As a 2000 proponent, I am happy to see the null/naught decade end and the tens decade begin.

We asked Harry Rinker: "Why do you choose to be only a collector and not a dealer as well?" Here is his response:

The old adage that it is impossible to serve two masters applies. The master that control collecting is not the same as the one who controls dealing. Those who attempt to serve the two masters face innumerable ethical and moral dilemmas.

Trust is a critical factor in the antiques and collectibles trade. I have lost count of the number of times I have been asked, “Can I trust him?”

I have two daughters, ages 12 and almost 11. Now I've been collecting and selling vintage clothing for 8 years now. My girls from the time they were little have enjoyed Mommy dressing her "Barbie" doll in vintage clothing and taking pictures of her.

We asked Harry Rinker: "Tell us about an item you did not purchase and have later regretted not doing so. What advice do you have for a person facing a similar situation?"

I grew up in Hellertown, Pennsylvania. Hellertown, located in Northampton County, was home to the Molls, a family of Pennsylvania long rifle makers. In addition making to long rifles, the family also made pistols. Early Moll long rifles and pistols utilized a flintlock firing mechanism. Many were converted to a percussion cap firing mechanism during the mid-19th century.

As I was leafing through some old recipe booklets and assorted handwritten recipes, I came across a personal diary notation dated 1918 tucked among the recipes. It was written by a sweet lady that I only came to know, back in the 1970s, when she was in her 80s. The note talked about attending a carnival, going to a picture show and when it was over, going up and dancing on the road with friends.

Prices Noted: [Sources: Eldred’s, 1483 Route 6A, East Dennis, MA 02641, www.eldreds.com) April 3-4, 2009; Ken Farmer Auctions (105 Harrison Street, Radford, VA 24141, www.kenfarmer.com), February 1, 2009; Garth’s Auction Inc. (2690 Stratford Road, Delaware, OH 43015, www.garths.com), Sale 1031, April 3, 2009; eBay sellers.]

$1,577 Crazy Quilt, 1888, Kate Greenaway Ribbon Roses, year and “Crazy Quilt” stitched into design, pristine condition, CA seller, eBay

This is part of a series of blogs about attending live auctions. We will address bid strategies here.

Once you have registered and completed the preview of merchandise being offered, it is a good idea to review your list. Write down the highest bid you can comfortably make on each item or 'lot' (group of items). Remember to factor in the Buyer's Premium. Recording your anticipated limits will help you avoid 'Auction Fever', which often results in overpaying.

I am especially fond of vases. They are not only beautiful objects of art displayed on a shelf, but they also enhance the beauty of any flowers placed in them. Some people won't use their vases. They are afraid of water stains or find them difficult to clean. Perhaps the vase already have stains. No need to fear, your vases can be safely cleaned and used if you do so with care.