Edmund Culpeper was an important maker of scientific instruments. He trained as an engraver under Walter Hayes and took over Hayes’ premises in Moorfields in London, England, before 1700, where he specialized in making mathematical instruments. He diversified into making small simple microscopes from ivory and brass. (more…)

Netsuke were miniature sculptures for use as toggles in traditional Japanese dress. They were attached to the obi (sash) around a kimono, from which hung a pouch, pipe case, or series of boxes on a cord. Produced from the 16th century, netsuke were carved from ivory, bone, or wood in many shapes, including peasants, gods, and mythical or real beasts, sometimes humorous. (more…)

Shortly after comics first appeared in newspapers of the 1890s, they were reprinted in book format and often used as promotional giveaways by manufacturers, movie theatres, and candy and stationary stores. The first modern-format comic was issued in 1933. (more…)

Coin collecting has long been one of the most respected and honoured aspects of the collecting world. Today it still holds its fascination as new collectors come onto the scene every day. And just like the old-time collectors, they should be ready to spend time reading and learning more about this fascinating hobby. The States Quarter Series has spurred many of us to save quarters again and that has encouraged all types of coin collecting. (more…)

One of the hottest trends in the toy-collecting hobby surrounds space toys. The children of the Lost in Space generation are today’s avid collector – and the demand for extra-terrestrial treasures is being felt at toy shows, flea markets, and even antique malls. (more…)

Simon & Halbig began making dolls in the 1870s and production soon became prolific. They made many china and bisque dolls themselves and also supplied dolls’ heads, often with fine wigs, to the French Jumeau factory and Kammer & Reinhardt. Kammer & Reinhardt bought Simon & Halbig in 1920. Simon & Halbig dolls are fully marked. The ampersand was added to the mark in 1905 and it is generally accepted that dolls marked without the ampersand were made before that date. (more…)