How to Start Collecting Antique Swords
Sword collecting is one of the exciting ways to rediscover world history and enrich your particular interest in antique swords. When you finally decide to start a sword collecting hobby, know these tips on how to start your new found hobby.
What and Where to buy
Collectible swords are products from all different eras of history and countries in the world. Its purposes included cavalry, fighting, ceremonial, infantry and executioner. Ponder well and engage in some historical research and learn what type of sword you plan to acquire. Check local and international laws on possession and importing swords before attempting to do so. You can search the Internet, browse collector’s and sword magazines, interview collectors and historians for additional information on types, prices, availability of swords. After you selected the type of sword you want to collect, decide where to purchase it. You have several options to choose from. You can buy on eBay, websites that specialize in selling swords to the public or consider canvassing the offers of private dealers, specialized shops which deals with antiques or visit your nearby “flea market” in your area where items are much more affordable. Use caution when purchasing swords online. Double check its reference and review all the feedback about the collectible sword. It won’t hurt if you email the seller to ask concerns about the product.
Cost
Collecting antique swords doesn’t come cheap just like collecting rare paintings or memorabilia.. You have to give consideration on how much money you can spare to fund your new hobby. Know how much you can spend for a certain sword but be careful not to splurge or spend beyond your means. Don’t be frustrated when you can’t get a sword due to financial limitations since establishing the size of your collection is meant to be built over time. Check and discuss with your insurance agent about the cost of protecting your investment in your collection of swords. Valuable collectibles may not be covered by your standard home owner’s policy in times of theft, natural disasters and other unfavorable incidents.
Handling and Maintenance
Your antique sword is intended as a collection and not as a weapon. Decide carefully where you want to put your swords as display in your home. Make sure everyone who comes into your house are aware not to handle your swords without permission from you. Monitor children that they should be kept away from potentially dangerous objects. Plan where to securely stack away your sword. You may need to put it in a special case up high on a wall to avoid unnecessary handling. The wise thing you can do for your sword collection is to store it in a display case where you can control the temperature and humidity. Your collectible swords will be preserved in good condition when mounted on a wall where you live in an area with high humidity. Always ensure your swords are rust-free by keeping it moisture-free. Don’t let anyone touch the blades since the oil on people’s hands can eat away the metal. Wipe it down afterwards in times your sword has to be handled. Avoid cleaning it with rough materials in the likes of sandpaper. You can prevent rust formation by wiping your sword blades on a regular basis with clear non-organic oil while giving it an attractive sheen. Try to find a special stand for swords so you can place them accurately in one row.
Authentic antique swords can cost a big sum of money which requires care and high maintenance to preserve its value and attractiveness. A sound knowledge of what you want your sword collection and what items are available will also help protect you from falling prey to scams that unfortunately make their way around the internet. Sword collecting is not common interest that you should engage into without proper hesitation.
November 10 2008 10:56 am | antique swords