8 Antiques That May Be Surprisingly Valuable in South Africa

Certain, fairly common items in your home may be worth more than you think. We outline types of antiques that can be surprisingly valuable in South Africa.

1. Antique cast-iron doorstops

When it comes to cast iron, older pieces with interesting designs fetch higher prices.

Depending on the age, condition and iron work involved, an antique cast-iron doorstop could fetch several thousand rand.

2. Martin Brothers pottery

If you own pottery birds or floral stoneware flasks, they could be from the kiln of the Martin Brothers.

The salt-glazed stoneware is from the turn of the 19th century. Today, iconic pieces are valued between R400,000 and R700,000.

3. Old hand tools

Old hand tools, like lathes, spirit levels, chisels and mallets, are highly sought after. They change hands quickly online and at outdoor markets, in both the original and restored states.

Tools manufactured by Parry and Bott, J. Oxley, Stanley and other well-known brands can fetch upwards of R600 a piece.

4. Early- to mid-20th century South African postage stamps

South African postage stamps printed in the 20th century are increasingly popular among serious collectors. They’re fetching record prices.

One example is the grey and purple 2d stamp featuring the Union Buildings. Along with other stamps of that era, it’s the mainstay of many collections.

As with most treasured items, age and rarity determine value. A mint condition 1928 2d stamp goes for around R100,000. Add a few years and the same stamp, printed in 1941, is selling for just R490.

5. Rare 1oz Krugerrand coins

Today’s spot price for a 1oz Krugerrand is around R1,800 – but a vintage coin, minted in 1967, could be valued from R50,000 to R65,000.

Why the leap in value? This was the year the popular bullion coin was first issued. Only 40,000 coins were struck that year.

6. Fountain pens

In the days before keyboards, fountain pens were ubiquitous. They were presented as graduation presents, 21^st birthday gifts and for retirements.

Today, they’re treasured items among collectors, who will pay thousands of rands for top brands like Montblanc, Sheaffer and Parker.

7. Vintage typewriters

Do you have an old typewriter stored in the back of a cupboard? If it’s a Remington, Bijou, Olympus or Triumph, it could be worth a four- or even five-figure sum. These retro machines are increasing in value too.

8. Victorian jewellery

The jewellery great-grandma used to wear is back in fashion. Victorian pieces are typically ornate, with lots of bows, flowers, insects and animal heads.

Snake rings, brooches, necklaces and dangly earrings – preferably encrusted with precious gemstones – epitomise jewellery of the era.

Getting the best price for antiques

Have an antique item you suspect may be valuable? A good first step is to check online platforms for similar items for sale. Sometimes this can give you an immediate idea of the item’s likely market value.

The next step is to have any antique you think is valuable appraised by a specialist.

An appraised value often differs significantly from an item’s market resale value – which will depend on factors like supply and demand. However, it’s good information to have before deciding on a selling price or approaching possible buyers.

Loans against antiques – a fast way to unlock their value

Instead of selling, you can choose to use an antique of value as collateral, to secure a short-term loan.

That means you can use the item to access funds, without having to sell it.

Once you repay the loan, the item is returned to you – and can be passed on to the next generation, sold at a suitable time or even used later to secure another loan.

Lamna offers loans against a wide range of assets, including antiques, which may be surprisingly valuable. For more information, contact us on 086 111 2866 or simply complete and submit our online application form.

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