Collectables and antiques - Being charitable

I’ve long been a fan of charity shops, although thanks to Mary Portas they now operate on a more businesslike footing, often employing experts to assess the value of goods they have acquired to reap maximum profits.

For collectors there are still some bargains to be had however, if you are willing to carry out a regular trawl through their shelves. I usually do this once a month or so.

People donate to charity shops for all sorts of reasons; it may be out of genuine concern for the chosen beneficiaries, the result of a house move perhaps, where downscaling has meant some treasured items have to be parted with, or relatives disposing of possessions once belonging to a loved one who has died.

I have noticed that in general, the more upmarket the area, the bigger the charity and the more well thought of its cause, the better the items for sale. However, that doesn’t mean to say that you won’t be able to come across some real finds, as a recent rummage through Taunton’s many charity shops revealed.

Designer clothes and hats can be snapped up for a few pounds, and old watches and pieces of costume jewellery are popular, along with boxed silver cutlery, especially fish knives and forks, (pieces with ivory handles will soon be in short supply if Prince William has his way). This week I found a lovely toasting fork for just £2.99.

Commemorative mugs and other china items are popular items, particularly if to do with the Royal Family and key events in their lives. An original programme from the marriage of Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1991 was selling for £6.99.

Old books, particularly first editions, are much sought after, and some charity shops even have dedicated book stores, where I discovered a Mrs. Beeton from C1890 at £14.99, and several other collectables from the early 20^th century.

Also in town was a very desirable solid gold Asprey tie pin with a fox head at £120; presumably once a gift to someone from the huntin’ and fishin’ brigade.

China is very popular, either ornaments, particularly of birds, vases or parts of dinner services. In addition to such well thought after marks as Royal Albert and Lladro, Wedgwood Jasper Blue china, once something I collected myself, is relatively easy to source; several shops had pieces on offer for under £5. In the recent past I have bought an entire Wedgwood dinner service for an amazing £15, and am always on the look out for pieces to add to my Denby Chatsworth dinner service, a wedding present from my mother almost 40 years ago.

German beer steins were found in several shops, and Toby jugs, although not cheap, are often to be seen on the shelves.

Not to be overlooked are children’s toys; discontinued lines of Dinky cars, Meccano and other such popular toys from a bygone age are also a good find.

Happy hunting, with the added bonus of knowing that you are supporting a good cause, but do also remember to check for authenticity and condition.