The demand for gold is constantly rising, while the real estate market has experienced a veritable boom over the past 15 years. The classic car trade and the art scene have also seen record prices year after year, continuously attracting wealthy investors. At the same time, largely unnoticed by the general public, new, exciting, and promising collecting areas are constantly emerging.
In sectors where rare treasures and antique rarities are traded, prices seem to rise incessantly. Works of art and coveted collectibles are not subject to inflation and are therefore increasingly in demand as alternative tangible assets for investment.
Since the outbreak of the financial crisis in 2008 and the accompanying sovereign debt crisis, which triggered an unprecedented flood of money from central banks, concerns about a massive devaluation of paper money have been growing. These concerns are being further fueled by the current inflation crisis.
Buy rarities online – Find rare collectibles and bid on them at great prices. Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA, via Pexels
Fixed-income investments have been and remain unattractive given historically low interest rates, if not actually a losing proposition after accounting for inflation. The risk of losses on the stock market is high and continues to rise. Therefore, it makes sense to invest to preserve assets independent of conventional investments.
This credo is also lived out in the popular TV show "Bares für Rares" with Horst Lichter.
Buy rarities online: Discover special treasures lurking in the depths of the internet
Immerse yourself in the fascinating online world of rarities and special collectibles and discover hidden treasures waiting for you in the vastness of the internet. From rare Art Nouveau figurines, contemporary art, antiques and Star Wars collectibles to rare Watches and luxury goods, exotic stamps and iconic classic cars, and unique accessories and decorative items for the garden and home: on the internet you will find everything a collector's heart desires.
But what factors influence the value of quirky and solid investment options for collectors and investors? Find out more here.
6 curious rarities that were auctioned for record sums
Why should you buy rare items online?
The internet offers an incredible variety of rare and sought-after collectibles that are often difficult to find in traditional stores. Auction platforms, online marketplaces, and online shops allow you to discover and buy rarities and antiques from the comfort of your home.
It doesn't matter whether you're looking for a specific rarity or simply want to browse. With just a few clicks, you have access to a virtually limitless world full of precious treasures.
Furthermore, buying rare items online offers practical advantages such as convenient shipping and a wide selection of accessories and care products. At the same time, comparing and checking the resale value is relatively easy.
What are popular collector's items and sought-after rarities among enthusiasts?
When we think of collectibles, stamps and coins are usually the first things that come to mind. This is probably because these two categories held significant importance for collectors and as investments in the 20th century. But is that still the case?
A recent representative survey among us Germans revealed what collectors from Germany paid particular attention to in 2022.
In 2022, the renowned market research institute Appinio on behalf of Fanzone Media GmbH . This yielded important insights into collecting behavior and preferences.
Fanzone Media GmbH has set itself the goal of developing and operating an innovative fan experience platform . This platform combines digital trading cards and gameplay elements on the blockchain and offers users on fanzone.io the opportunity to acquire, collect, trade, and use digital trading cards of their favorite sports stars in various game modes.
The collecting experts at Fanzone.io have published the results of their representative survey on their platform. This reveals the ten most sought-after collectibles among Germans .
Traditional objects still hold immense fascination for people in Germany. Coins, , are highly popular as collector's items, followed by books , comics , and sound recordings such as records and CDsWatches or classic cars also remain in high demand among collectors.
In fact, more than one in three Germans are interested in collecting one or more of the aforementioned goods.
Ranking of the ten most popular collectibles in Germany
The once iconic collectible – the postage stamp – has clearly lost popularity. More than half of Germans reject stamp collecting, while only one in five still pursues it. Last year, however, a red Mauritius stamp auctioned for an incredible 8 million euros.
In 2022, collectors are predominantly male. Only 32 percent of the women surveyed enjoy collecting valuables, compared to 42 percent of men. When women do collect, they prefer art , books, autographed cards, and valuable luxury goods such as jewelry or Watches .
In Germany, collectors are on average between 25 and 54 years old, with younger collectors (under 25) showing great interest in trading cards such as Panini or Pokémon cards , toy figures , and merchandise (fan items) , while stamps are less popular. Older collectors (over 54) prefer records and coins, while trading cards and non-fungible tokens attract little interest from this demographic.
Non-fungible token (NFT) technology has also sparked interest among German collectors, but also skepticism. While 28 percent of those surveyed could imagine NFTs , 31 percent currently reject the idea.
Neo-Vintage & Y2K Tech (90s & 2000s)
The market for “genuine” antiques (over 100 years old) is stagnating, while everything from the turn of the millennium is exploding.
What are we looking for? Early digital compact cameras (digicams), sealed first-generation iPods, designer pieces from brands like Helmut Lang or Prada Sport from that era.
The opportunity : Many people still own these things in their basements and don't know that a "bad" 5MP camera from 2004 is now considered "aesthetically valuable".
Where to look?Vinted or classified ads with the filter “Condition: New/Original Packaging” .
“Quiet Luxury” vintage Watches
The focus has shifted away from the “hype models” ( Rolex Daytona , Patek Nautilus ) towards smaller brands and neo-vintage models (1990-2010).
Hidden gems : Brands like Cartier (neo-vintage), Chopard , or early Grand Seiko . These are technically brilliant, but often available for a fraction of the price of the big brands.
Where to look?Chrono24 for market price checks, but buy from Japanese dealers via Buyee (Japan often has the best-maintained vintage Watches worldwide).
Trading cards are still in high demand
If you skim through these 10 categories and specifically look for trends and strong upward developments, two special collector categories in particular stand out:
Pokémon cards
Baseball cards
Pokémon cards
Barnebys , the market for Pokémon cards is booming. It's astonishing how the Pokémon cards we collected as children have become such valuable rarities. The reason for this surge lies in the details.
The Pokémon craze began in the USA, particularly thanks to well-known influencers and YouTubers like Logan Paul . As the owner of the most expensive privately sold Pokémon card ever (valued at $5,275,000), Paul is also known for his unusual boxing matches with a Pokémon card around his neck.
French rapper Lorenzo , who sings about Pokémon cards on TikTok, was able to sell his collection for a remarkable 305,793 euros on eBay in May 2021.
At France's leading auction house , Ivoire Troyes, expert Léonard Pomez has observed a growing trend in the auction market – the boom in Pokémon cards. Despite the pandemic, the house achieved a new auction record for France in June 2021, selling a Dracaufeu card for a staggering €12,000, even though it had previously been estimated at only €2,500. Pomez believes this market will continue to grow and will attract a whole new generation of bidders.
Looking at the bigger picture, Pokémon cards have a global market and are popular everywhere. However, the highest prices are achieved particularly in the USA and Japan, where truly extraordinary sums are at stake.
Baseball cards
The recent record sale of a Mickey Mantle baseball card for $12.6 million was just the tip of a veritable baseball card boom. The record-breaking auction of a 1952 baseball card at Heritage Auctions generated considerable buzz. It has brought renewed attention to an old but burgeoning collecting field with an interesting price trend for collectors and investors alike.
This was a new record price for a sports trading card, nearly doubling the previous record of $6.9 million for an Honus Wagner card. The sports trading card industry experienced a revival during the Covid pandemic, as nostalgic pursuits gained popularity. This market sector for sports memorabilia such as trading cards is now estimated to be worth over $13 billion – and growing ( Barnebys reported ).
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Coveted brands and design icons
The 20th century produced numerous iconic product designs and coveted brands . In particular, the emerging pop culture of the second half of the century spawned a whole range of products that were celebrated with almost fanatical enthusiasm and turned them into highly desirable objects for collectors.
look at the popular auction platform Catawiki reveals the following brands:
ROLEX (luxury watches )
OMEGA (Swiss luxury watches )
Cartier (High Jewelry, Watches and Accessories)
Louis Vuitton (luxury fashion)
Hermès Paris (luxury fashion)
PORSCHE (sports car)
Märklin (model railways)
Christofle (branded silver)
Pokémon (trading cards)
Macallan (Single Malt Scotch Whiskey)
LEGO (toys)
Nikon (cameras)
Iconic brands on the auction platform for rarities and collectibles: CataWiki
Meteorites and bonsai trees – unusual investments for collectors
The admittedly somewhat dated, but no less relevant article in WirtschaftsWoche, “Wealth You Can Touch: Investing Between Gold Coins and Meteorites”, vividly demonstrates that it doesn't always have to be the old master on the wall or the classic car in its original condition when it comes to collectibles with high potential for value appreciation.
In principle, all items or objects that are exceptional and rare are suitable as investments – so rare that there is always more demand from collectors and enthusiasts than the supply can meet.
In his 2014 publication “Unusual Investments – 25 Alternatives to Fixed Deposits & Co.”, expert and author Gerald Pilz described some extraordinary collectibles that can serve as investment opportunities.
According to Pilz, meteorites and bonsai trees are among the most unusual tangible assets. A small meteorite can fetch a high price of several hundred euros, while in Japan, meticulously maintained bonsai trees can even be traded for more than 100,000 euros.
It is by no means easy to identify which collectibles will experience a significant increase in value. To build a successful and particularly valuable collection, numerous factors must be considered, which the author explains in detail in each chapter.
Gerhard Pilz: Unusual Investments. 25 Alternatives to Fixed Deposits & Co. ( available here at Amazon )
In 2020, Gerald Pilz published a new book that captivatingly presents unconventional investments that help investors preserve and grow their wealth. Whether dealing with small or large investments suitable for every budget, the book offers comprehensive information on buying, selling, and storing these valuable assets.
It contains fascinating examples, exemplary investors, invaluable advice and helpful checklists that make the book a useful and entertaining guide.
Get rich with rarities: How to use your money to increase its value ( available here at Amazon )
The 10 most valuable rarities sold on live television
Where can you find the most exquisite collectibles and rarities?
When it comes to buying rare items online, finding the best deals is crucial. The internet offers a wealth of opportunities to discover rare collectibles, and with a few tips, you can ensure you get the most out of your shopping experience.
01 Search engines
First of all, it's helpful to use some specific search terms to refine your search. For example, if you're interested in rare antique Art Nouveau figurines, terms like "figurines," "Art Nouveau," "collectibles," "rare," or "rarity" could help you quickly find the objects you're looking for using a search engine like Google.
02 Online auction houses
Sotheby's
The renowned auction house Sotheby’s ajay_suresh, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1744, Sotheby’sleading address for art and luxury goods . Sotheby’s promotes access to, connoisseurship of, and the preservation of art and rare objects through auctions and buy-now channels, including private sales, e-commerce, and retail.
Sotheby's global marketplace is powered by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists in 40 countries and 50 categories. These include auctions in contemporary art, modern and impressionist art, Old Masters, Chinese art, jewelry, Watches , wine and spirits, interior design, and much more.
Founded in 1766, Christie’sart and luxury goods company . Known for its expert live and online auctions and bespoke private sales, Christie’s offers its clients a comprehensive portfolio of global services, including art valuation , art financing , international real estate, and expertise.
Christie's operates in 46 countries across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, with flagship international distribution centers in New York, London, Hong Kong, Paris, and Geneva. It is also the only international auction house authorized to conduct sales in mainland China (Shanghai).
Christie ’s auctions encompass more than 80 art and luxury categories, with prices ranging from $200 million to over $100 million. Christie’s has sold 8 of the 10 most important individual collections in history, including the Paul G. Allen Collection – the most valuable collection ever offered at auction (November 2022).
Christie's Private Sales offers a seamless service for buying and selling art, jewelry, and Watches Christie's specialists, proceeding at the client's individual pace.
Recent innovations at Christie's include the groundbreaking sale of the first NFT for a digital artwork ever offered at a major auction house ( Beeple's Everydays , March 2021), with the unprecedented acceptance of cryptocurrency as a means of payment.
As an industry leader in digital innovation, Christie's continues to pioneer new technologies that redefine art businesshologram technology to tour life-size 3D objects around the world and the creation of integrated viewing and bidding experiences through augmented reality , global live streaming , instant purchase channels and hybrid sales formats .
Catawiki – Large European online auction house for special collectibles
Catawiki has been around since 2008. What started as a collector's catalog has grown into a large digital auction house. Since 2011, enthusiasts of art, classic cars, watches, jewelry, coins, antiques, silverware, whisky, and stamps have been able toparticipateWatchesauctions or offer their favorite items for sale.
The former Dutch auction startup is now the leading curated auction marketplace for special collectibles in Europe, offering a wide range of unique objects. The platform receives approximately 14 million visitors per month.
With over 65,000 items available in auctions every week, the platform offers its customers a smooth and exciting experience when buying and selling special objects.
Key features of Catawiki
In-house expert curation : Every lot you see has theoretically been reviewed by one of over 240 experts. They review photos and descriptions before an item is unlocked.
Expert valuations : For many properties, experts provide a price range (e.g., €200–€300). This helps you determine whether your bid is still within the market value.
Weekly auction cycles : New auctions start every Friday. This ensures a constant flow of new rarities and makes browsing a regular ritual for collectors.
Notarial supervision : Catawiki often emphasizes that its auctions are under notarial supervision, suggesting a higher level of legal security than with pure C2C platforms.
Unique selling points (USPs)
The "quality over quantity" filter : You don't have to sift through thousands of junk items. Since objects must have a minimum value (usually around €75) to be accepted, the quality of the finds is consistently high.
No sniping stress : If you bid in the last minute, the auction time is automatically extended by a short period. This prevents bots from snatching the item away from you in the last millisecond and gives you time to make a counter-bid.
Secure payment system : Catawiki holds your money until you have confirmed receipt of the item (or a certain period has expired). Only then is the seller paid. This protects you from sellers "ghosting" you.
The best tactics and approaches
Strategy for bargains: To avoid overpaying on Catawiki, you should use these tactics:
Focus on "No Reserve" : Specifically search for lots without a reserve price. Here, the highest bid wins, even if it's far below the expert estimate. The best prices can be achieved particularly on "No Reserve Days" (often special promotional days).
The psychological "anchoring" tactic : Place an early bid that is just below your limit. This deters "bargain hunters" who are only waiting for lots with a starting bid of €1.
Shipping cost check beforehand: A common mistake is ignoring shipping costs. Since many sellers come from all over Europe (especially the Netherlands, Italy, and France), shipping costs can vary significantly. Always factor these into your maximum bid.
Using the “Automatic Bidding” feature : Enter your absolute maximum bid. The system will only bid as much as necessary to stay in the lead. This prevents you from being carried away by emotional (and excessively high) bids in the heat of the moment.
The online platform now employs more than 150 experts who contribute their specialized knowledge from various fields. From wine connoisseurs and art experts to jewelry and gemstone specialists, everything is represented. Some experts even possess in-depth niche knowledge, for example, in trading cards, whisky, and tribal art .
Barnebys – the meta search engine for online auctions
Barnebys is an aggregator , or search engine, specializing in finding auctions of all kinds. Unlike other auction platforms such as Catawiki, Barnebys is not an auction platform itself, but rather a platform that gathers important information about items up for auction, as well as auction results and price data. An additional valuation service completes the offering.
The selection of listed auction houses is extremely extensive and includes providers of all sizes, from small firms like A-1 Auction in Orlando to large players like Sotheby's in London. Consequently, the price range extends from the smallest amounts to hundreds of millions.
Therefore, Barnebys can confidently be described the meta-search engine for auctions
Entering a search term provides an illustrated list of all items offered by participating auction houses. The search can be refined by category, country, and auctioneer/art dealer. Approximately 520,000 objects are available each week, 112,000 of which originate from Germany and are offered by 1,200 auction houses, 300 dealers, and 25 art fairs.
Auctionet offers safe and convenient shopping at local auction houses throughout Europe
Auctionet is a platform for auctions that offers European auction houses the opportunity to auction furniture, art, design and collectibles as well as many other objects.
Unlike eBay, all items are inspected, described, and professionally photographed by experts to ensure a safe and convenient shopping experience. This is guaranteed by the seller.
Buying items at auctions is not only smart for your wallet, but also for the environment. You can find interesting objects to beautify your home – often at a lower price than buying them new. The value often retains itself should you wish to resell the item one day.
Auctionet's unique approach transforms local auction houses into global players by giving customers the opportunity to bid on unique items from small auction houses in northern Sweden to long-established houses in Bavaria. Before bidding, customers can view available transport options at fixed prices and pay securely through Auctionet.com. Multilingual customer support is available to assist with any questions or issues.
Lot-tissimo is not simply a marketplace like eBay, but the digital gateway to Europe's traditional, physical auction houses. By 2026, the platform has established itself as the most important tool for collectors who want to move beyond the "flea market" experience and seek genuine, expertly appraised rarities.
Key features of Lot-tissimo
Live bidding with real-time audio/video : You take a virtual seat in the auction room, hear the auctioneer, and see the current bids in the room. The system is optimized for minimal latency, so you are not at a disadvantage compared to bidders on site.
Timed Auctions : Similar to eBay, these take place entirely online over a set period. An integrated "sniping protection" extends the auction by two minutes if a bid is received shortly before the end – this ensures greater fairness.
Hidden maximum bids : You can set a limit in advance. The system will automatically only bid the next highest increment on your behalf, keeping you at the top without revealing the maximum bid immediately.
Catalog archive & price history : one of the most valuable tools. You can research the actual selling prices of similar items in recent years.
What distinguishes Lot-tissimo from Catawiki or eBay is its connection to the traditional auction world. Since the lots come from established auction houses, they have been examined by experts (gemologists, art historians, watchmakers). The descriptions are legally binding.
The“regional treasure”factor: Many small auction houses in rural areas use Lot-tissimo as a showcase. Estates that are rarely advertised online often end up here. Those who search here will find rarities that never even appear on the global hype platforms. With just one click, you can request a detailed report on the item's condition. An employee of the auction house will then often examine the item again for you – a service that private sellers rarely offer.
The post-auction sale: Items that didn't sell at auction often appear in the "post-auction sale." Here you have the chance to acquire rarities directly at the reserve price (minimum bid) without bidding wars.
The best approach: Strategy for bargain hunters
get a really good deal on lot-tissimo
A. The Calculation (The “True” Bid) : Always remember that the hammer price is not the final price. Lot-tissimo charges fees (a buyer's premium of usually 20% to 28% of the hammer price + online fee: often an additional 3% to 5% for using the platform). Shipping can also be expensive.
Strategy: Set a total budget and deduct approximately 35% for fees and shipping. The result is your maximum bid in the system.
B. Use the “Regional Window”: Don't just search for “Rolex” or “Pokémon”, but specifically browse the catalogs of smaller, specialized retailers in less digitally savvy regions. There, the competition is often less intense.
C. Use the “Condition Report” as leverage: Always ask for a condition report. If the report lists flaws that are acceptable to you (e.g., a slightly damaged box, but a perfect item), it deters other “perfectionists” and keeps the price low.
liveauctioneers – Worldwide auctions for unique art, antiques and luxury goods.
While Lot-tissimo has a strong foothold in German-speaking countries, LiveAuctioneers the global heavyweight. If you're looking for rarities originating in the USA, Great Britain, or Asia (especially in the areas of nerd culture, comics, and high-end memorabilia), this platform is the only way to go.
Auction Price Results (The Goldmine) is one of the most powerful tools for collectors. It gives you access to a vast database of realized prices. This is essential for determining the "true" market value of a rarity before placing a bid. You can also save highly specific search terms (e.g., "First Edition Pokémon Charizard PSA 10"). The platform instantly notifies you via push notification when a matching lot appears at one of the thousands of connected auction houses worldwide.
LiveAuctioneers has further simplified the process for international buyers through Live.Payments & Live.Shipping . At participating auction houses, you can pay directly through the platform and receive integrated shipping quotes, making the often complicated US export process significantly less stressful.
The mobile app is optimized to ensure no delays at the crucial moment of the live auction. This allows you to bid in real time from anywhere in the world, as if you were sitting right there in the room in New York or London.
Unique selling points (USPs)
LiveAuctioneers distinguishes itself through its sheer size and focus on the Anglo-Saxon market:
Epicenter of pop culture : The world's most important auctions for comics, rare video games (WATA/VGA graded), and film props take place here. Anyone looking for investment-grade nostalgia will find a concentration here unmatched by any European platform.
Highest standards in descriptions : Since the world's most prestigious auction houses (outside the "Big Three" Sotheby's , Christie's , Bonhams) often advertise here, the catalogue descriptions are extremely detailed and often include high-resolution 360-degree views.
Curated “Collections” : The editorial team at LiveAuctioneers regularly creates curated collections on current trends (e.g., “Vintage Space Toys” or “90s Retro Tech”), which facilitates inspiration and the discovery of new collecting areas.
The best approach: professional strategies
The “international time advantage” – Many auctions take place in the USA. An auction that ends in late afternoon in California is in the dead of night in Europe. Tip: Use absentee bids (pre-bids). If you enter your maximum bid in advance, the system will automatically bid up to that limit for you. Many live bidders in the room are psychologically worn down by a persistent online bidder who immediately counters (through the automated system).
Early registration is essential – unlike eBay, you can't simply bid at the last minute. Each auction house must individually activate you for its auction. Register at least 48 hours before the auction begins. Houses often check your "bidder reputation" (history on the platform). A fully completed profile with a linked credit card greatly increases your chances of quick activation.
“Timed Auctions” vs. “Live Auctions” – LiveAuctioneers offers both formats. In “Timed Auctions” (purely online auctions without an auctioneer), sniping (bidding in the last second) is less effective, as the time often runs longer. Focus here on lots that fly “under the radar” because they are poorly categorized – LiveAuctioneers is good, but not perfect.
Heritage Auctions – Coins, Comics, Currencies, Art, Luxury Handbags, Sports Memorabilia, Wine, Historical Objects, Books, Real Estate and more.
If Lot-tissimo is the gateway to European tradition and LiveAuctioneers your window to the world, then Heritage Auctions (HA.com) is the "Wall Street of collectibles ." Anyone who wants to be a major player in nerd culture, comics, or trading cards in 2026 can't ignore this Dallas giant.
an archive of superlatives, offers free access to one of the world's largest databases of realized auction prices. You can view millions of past sales, including high-resolution photos – the ultimate tool for valuation. Bid Protection is a smart feature for must-have items. It allows you to set your bid to be automatically increased by 0.5 to 3 increments if you are outbid in the last second.
With Heritage Live! & Proxy Bidding, you can place a secret maximum bid (proxy) weeks in advance or compete live against in-person and telephone bidders on auction day. The system is calibrated so that your bid always increases by the smallest possible increment above the second-highest bid. Purely online auctions often have an "extension period ." If you placed a bid before 10:00 PM (CT), you can continue bidding in the extension period until no new bids are received for 30 minutes. This prevents last-second "sniping."
Unique selling points (USPs)
Market leader for “investment-grade” items : When a comic book costs $15 million or a Pokémon card breaks records, it usually happens here. Heritage is the first address for certified (graded) objects (PSA, CGC, WATA).
Weekly themed auctions : Every Sunday and Tuesday there are specialized auctions for video games, comics, or trading cards. Because the number of lots is extremely high, items that receive less attention than the large signature auctions often slip through the cracks.
Absolute transparency : Heritage's condition descriptions are almost pedantic. Every speck of dust is photographed. The risk of buying junk is lower here than on any other platform.
The best approaches & strategies for 2026
To bid cheaply on Heritage, you need to know the new game rules from 2026:
Calculate the new buyer's premium: Heritage has adjusted its fees as of January 1, 2026. US coins & currencies: The premium is now 22% (minimum $29 per lot). Original comic art: Here you now pay a 25% premium. Comics & nerd memorabilia: Mostly 20%. For an effective strategy, use the integrated bid calculator on the website. It shows you exactly what you will ultimately pay, including fees and estimated shipping (to Germany!), before you submit your bid.
The “Early Bird” tactic : Don't wait for the live event at the major signature auctions. Place a reasonable proxy bid to qualify for the extended bidding phase. Many bidders forget the time difference with the US – those who qualify can then strike in Europe in the morning while the US competition is asleep.
Search for “Weekly Internet” instead of “Signature” : “Signature Auctions” attract the big fish and record prices. Weekly Internet auctions (Weekly Internet Rare Books, Comics, etc.) often contain similar items, but with significantly less marketing hype. This is where you'll find the real collector's bargains.
The “Make Offer to Owner” trick : Heritage allows you to make anonymous offers to the current owners of items that have been sold in the past. If someone wants to liquidate their collection, you can thus buy a rarity before it even goes to public auction again.
The Collection of Slash and Rock Legends / 3/26/11 - Julien's Auctions Preview 2011 Deidre Woollard, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Finally, we would like to end this list with a real highlight for music, sports and film fans.
Julien's Auctions is the auction house of choice for celebrities . Working in collaboration with famous people and VIPs, Julien's Auctions conducts high-profile auctions in the film , music , art , and sports .
Julien's Auctions has received international recognition for its unique and innovative auction events, which attract thousands of collectors, investors, fans and enthusiasts from around the world.
Julien's Auctions specializes in the sale of iconic artifacts and remarkable collections, including Marilyn Monroe, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, Lady Gaga, Banksy , Cher, Michael Jackson, Slash of Guns N' Roses, U2, Barbra Streisand, Les Paul, Neil Young, Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and Jimi Hendrix, Hugh Hefner, Pelé and many more.
In 2016, Julien's achieved a historic auction of the collection of memorabilia, personal belongings, and awards belonging to Brazilian football icon, three-time World Cup winner, and FIFA Player of the Century Pelé , generating $5 million in proceeds. This included the sale of Pelé's three World Cup gold medals. The total price reached $970,992 (£674,300), including the 1970 World Cup medal, which sold for $427,100 (£346,000).
This set world records for the most expensive Pelé item and the most expensive football medal ever sold at auction.
In 2020, Julien broke records again for auctioned sports jerseys when he auctioned off a trio of historic basketball jerseys bearing the number 23. This number was worn by Michael Jordan during his rookie season.
Julien's Auctions is based in Los Angeles and has a global presence, bringing its auctions and exhibitions to destinations around the world, including London, New York, Las Vegas, Japan, and China. Live auctions are presented to bidders both on-site and online via live-streamed video and mobile technology. The website and services are available in English only.
Another effective method for finding the best deals is to visit specialized online shops and online platforms for rarities, antiques and rare objects.
By searching and comparing prices in different shops, you can ensure that you get the best deal.
WAIGAND Collectors' World
Since 1975, WAIGAND Collectors' World a renowned provider of historical collectibles such as stamps , coins , banknotes , and securities . Numerous satisfied customers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland appreciate the team's personal service and comprehensive guarantees of authenticity and quality.
With passion and expertise, WAIGAND Collectors' World is dedicated to trading in unique treasures that reflect history and culture.
viaLibri is the world's largest search engine for old, rare and used books .
Libribot scans the internet for new offers of books for sale. When new listings are found, Libribot compares them with the recorded preferences of viaLibri subscribers and registered users.
The number of requests that are fulfilled each day depends on the user's subscription level and the website category.
Books listed on the collected and scanned websites of booksellers who have subscribed to viaLibri's premium services are matched daily with all recorded requests from all viaLibri users.
AbeBooks is a virtual trading platform for books, art objects and collectibles , allowing you to discover and purchase your favorite items.
The products offered come from trusted and independent sellers from around the world and include a wide variety of new, used and rare books, as well as art and collectibles.
These articles will then be made available on the AbeBooks websites.
At Morris Antiques, you'll find a fascinating variety of English antiques that will delight any lover of stylish and timeless furniture. From desks, chairs, and Chesterfield sofas to bookcases, there's something to suit every taste and interior design.
Of particular note is the fact that many of the pieces offered are original English antiques that have preserved their history and unique character.
Morris Antik is distinguished by its constant search for high-quality, authentic antiques. Each piece is selected with the utmost care to meet Morris Antik's exacting standards. These pieces of furniture are not merely relics of the past; they tell their own stories and possess an enchanting charm that sets them apart from modern reproductions.
against using classifieds portals like eBay , Markt.de , Quoka , and similar sites when it comes to buying rarities and antiques. These platforms are rife with unscrupulous sellers, and it can be difficult to reliably verify the authenticity, value, and quality of rare objects.
The transactions can be difficult at times, and unless the property can be inspected and valued by a third party or a trustworthy, neutral service provider, there is a high risk of disappointment.
However, we came across a promising marketplace that is little known to the general public and which has attracted our attention in a positive way:
Vinted App
Vinted in 2026 is what the flea market used to be on Sunday mornings: a place of chaos, but also of undiscovered treasures. While platforms like Heritage Auctions are for professionals, Vinted is the domain of "fortune hunters." There are no classic auctions with a hammer price, but rather a peer-to-peer system based on speed and negotiation skills.
Features for collectors
Item Verification Service : For a fee of approximately €10, you can add an expert authentication service for many brands (from streetwear to luxury). The item will first be sent to a verification center and then to you.
Visual Search (Photo Upload) : Have a picture of a rare nerd collectible? Upload it to the search. Vinted's AI will find identical or similar items, often eliminating the need for tedious keyword searches.
Individual bundle discounts : Collectors often sell entire series. When you buy multiple items from the same seller, the system automatically unlocks discounts (often up to 30-50%).
"Make an Offer" : You can send up to 5 price offers per day to different sellers. Unlike auctions, here it's not about time, but about rapport and quick action.
Oldthing is a professional online marketplace for antiques, collectibles and beautiful old furniture
Oldthing is an established online platform specializing in the trade of antiques , collectibles , and fine furniture . Every single product offered here possesses a unique charm and is worth discovering and appreciating.
The provider places great emphasis on the personality and uniqueness of its offered goods and provides customers with direct access to extraordinary collectibles, artistic one-of-a-kind pieces and personal mementos.
Antiques and antique furniture are particularly popular at Oldthing, as are old books , records , stamps , and historical postcards there are also numerous attractive online offers to discover in the areas of design and vintage furniture, antique jewelry
Besides the well-known collections, the marketplace offers a multitude of wonderful, still-emerging collecting areas, which are constantly expanding. Merchandise figures,postcards, photography , and seals & advertising stamps are among the smaller but highly specialized areas that already boast an impressive online selection.
One of the most successful collecting areas is the theme of cars and transportation , ranking third in sales. This category offers a wide selection of vintage car brochures, automobilia, and everything related to bicycles, motorcycles, shipping, aviation, and transportation.
FOCUS Online Classifieds is a meta-search engine – Category: Antiques & Art
We've already discussed the risks and dangers of classified ad portals. Nevertheless, you might still want to find some bargains this way. For that, we recommend the large meta-search engine FOCUS Classifieds (category: Art & Antiques).
FOCUS Online Classifieds presents itself as a meta-search engine that clearly aggregates German classified ads from various portals. Here you can find memorabilia, collectibles, antiques, old books, furniture, and much more at a glance. This saves you the tedious search on multiple websites and gives you a comprehensive overview.
If you come across a classified ad that interests you, simply click on the link. A new window will open, giving you access to the complete listing. To ensure you don't miss any suitable offers, you can save your search in the classifieds. As soon as a matching offer is published, you will receive an email notification. You can deactivate this feature at any time.
Please note, however, that the ads are collected and updated automatically. FOCUS Online Classifieds makes no guarantee as to the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided
During our research, we noticed that the vast majority of rarities in this meta-search service come from Quoka .
The world of online commerce via classifieds portals offers a convenient way to buy goods – however, this anonymity also carries risks. Some users resort to unfair methods. For this reason, Quoka has committed to implementing additional security measures to strengthen the trust of its users.
security guide explains the steps the seller has taken and how you can proactively protect yourself. We recommend reading this guide before making any transactions on Quoka.
The past few years have brought about a number of exciting innovations alongside the traditional and established market players. These include blockchain , NFTs , and smart investing . In this segment, one particularly promising company has caught our attention, one that is entirely dedicated to fractional investing (acquiring shares in art objects as an investment) based on blockchain technology.
Timeless
Timeless – Buy shares in exclusive assets such as rare sneakers, Watches & luxury cars and participate in their value appreciation
Timeless is a pioneer in the world of blockchain technology, enabling everyone to invest in collectibles and benefit from their performance.
The company's innovative business model opens up the collectibles asset class to everyone, making rare collectibles such as Watches , art, vehicles, sneakers, wine, trading cards, and memorabilia accessible to all. Blockchain technology is used to reliably, transparently, and securely document digital transactions.
As part of New Horizon GmbH, based in Berlin, Timeless is a digital platform that acquires, verifies, and divides unique assets into shares (tokenization). Anyone can purchase these shares with other users for a minimum investment of €50. The company also handles the secure custody, insurance, and maintenance of the assets until they are resold. Purchasing shares is convenient, secure, and digital via the Timeless app.
The only downside, in our view, is that the exclusive valuables cannot be easily touched and appreciated with one's own eyes.
When buying rare items, there are some important points to consider to ensure that you acquire a high-quality and authentic collector's item.
First, it's advisable to gather detailed information about the object you're looking for. For example, if you're a collector of Art Nouveau figurines, you should be familiar with the different styles, artists, and manufacturing methods of that era. This will help you more easily identify forgeries and better assess the value of a particular rarity.
Another important aspect is choosing the right online shop. Make sure the shop is reputable and has a good reputation .
Read reviews from other customers and find out about the payment methods and shipping conditions offered. A trustworthy shop will provide clear information about the origin and condition of the rare item.
Furthermore, you should check the condition of the object , especially if it is a delicate item such as antique furniture or rare objects.
Ask the seller for detailed pictures and make sure all features and any damage are visible. If possible, ask about a return policy in case the purchased item doesn't meet your expectations. Finally, it's advisable to research the price of the item and compare different offers. Be wary of extremely low prices, as this could be a sign of a possible forgery.
Please note that additional costs such as shipping fees and customs duties may affect the total price.
Also, check the return and refund policies in case you are not satisfied with your purchase or the item turns out to be inauthentic.
By following these tips and doing thorough research, you can ensure that you acquire a high-quality and authentic collector's item when buying rarities online.
Strategies for the “favorable” bid
Bid counter-cyclically : Auctions that end on weekday mornings or late at night statistically achieve lower prices than those on Sunday evenings.
Minimum price check : Specifically search for “No Reserve” or “No Limit”. If a seller is forced to sell at the starting price, you have the best chance.
Request condition reports : Platforms like LiveAuctioneers or Lot-tissimo allow you to request a detailed condition report in advance. Uncertainty often deters other bidders – having this information allows you to make a confident bid.
Professional strategies for 2026
We've had extensive discussions with experts and professionals. Three specific approaches, in particular, were recommended to us for achieving above-average success. Here are three tactics that will set you apart from casual buyers:
tactics
Description
Goal
The “Japan Proxy”
Use services like Buyee or ZenMarket bid on Yahoo! Japan Auctions
Often 20-30% cheaper than European prices, as the market is closed off.
AI Search Alerts
Use tools like StreetLib or specialized Discord bots for this.
You will be notified as soon as a keyword (e.g. “attic find clock”) appears on eBay, before others see it.
Lottery hacking
Buy large “boxes” or “collections” (lots), keep the best and sell the rest individually.
The individual components often cover the cost of the entire package.
How do you protect yourself against fraud?
In addition to the points mentioned in the previous section, you can consider a few more measures to protect yourself from fraud and scams.
Look for certificates or quality seals that confirm the product's authenticity. For art, the work's provenance should be clarified and documented.
Furthermore, it is advisable to thoroughly read the shop's Terms & Conditions to learn about return options and warranty services. A reputable seller will offer clear conditions for any exchange or return.
Furthermore, you should be careful not to disclose any sensitive data when paying. Use Secure payments like PayPal, where your data is transmitted in encrypted form.
To be even more protected, you can also consider insuring your purchase
By following these precautions, you can best protect yourself from fraud when buying rare items. Enjoy the exciting world of collectibles and discover special treasures lurking in the depths of the internet. With care and attention, an unforgettable shopping experience awaits you. Happy browsing and discovering!
Sources, technical support and further information:
Weltkunst: Art on the Net – The Aggregator , https://www.weltkunst.de/kunstwissen/2017/03/kunst-im-netz-der-aggregator
Welt Online:20 things that will be worth a fortune in 50 years , https://www.welt.de/iconist/service/article201054012/20-Dinge-die-in-50-Jahren-fuer-unverhofften-Geldsegen-sorgen-koennten.html
WirtschaftsWoche : Investment between gold coins and meteorites , https://www.wiwo.de/finanzen/geldanlage/vermoegen-zum-anfassen-das-richtige-sammelgebiet/10215400-2.html
Rajapack : Cashing in on Collectibles, https://www.rajapack.co.uk/print-to-profit.html
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Owner and Managing Director of Kunstplaza. Journalist, editor, and passionate blogger in the field of art, design, and creativity since 2011. Successful completion of a degree in web design as part of a university study (2008). Further development of creativity techniques through courses in free drawing, expressive painting, and theatre/acting. Profound knowledge of the art market through years of journalistic research and numerous collaborations with actors/institutions from art and culture.
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Round side table "Timber Conic", natural Suar wood (solid)
The original price was: €445.00265,00 €The current price is: €265.00.
