Vintage toys Even if you have not got the spare £1 million to invest in an 1882 £1 brown lilac, collecting can have significant returns and be a fun hobby too. Other assets to have enjoyed big rises in value over recent years include coins, wines, autographs, film posters and comics.
Step one: Use your imagination. The market in nostalgia is huge, so chose your collection carefully. In the past few years, for example, Ladybird books which dominated most of our childhoods, have soared in popularity. Books that once changed hands for 2s6d each, can now change hands for up to £300. There are other great growing markets too such as British holiday postcards, action figures and toys.
Step two: Buy cheap, sell dear. The best way to make money out of your collection is to spot a bargain and sell it at a profit. That means you need to build-up as much knowledge as possible in your chosen field. The internet is, as always, a fabulous resource, as is your local library. You should also try online clubs to swap tips and advice.
Step three: Get collecting. The first, and best place to look is in your own attic for collectables which time has left undisturbed. Then, make some time to go to car boot sales, flea markets and jumble sales. eBay is an obvious port of call, but you will increasingly find yourself in fierce competition with other collectors. Don't forget to rope in friends and family. If, for example, you collect stamps, ask everyone you know to save you stamps they get from different countries. For advice on finding a reputable broker or to certify stamps, contact The Royal Philatelic Society London at rpsl.org.uk.
Step four: Think ahead. When compiling your collection, it helps to think about what is the next big thing. If, for example, film or TV action figures fire your imagination, remember, the market will be boosted by a film sequel or TV series. Good looks are not everything either - a hideous, overweight Jabba the Hutt from Star Wars will be worth more to fellow collectors than the debonair Hans Solo, played by Harrison Ford. Manufacturers automatically make more of the attractive stars because they know they will be the most popular, so Jabba and his ilk will be rarer and more valuable. Useful information on prices and what is popular can be found on www.popcornlive.co.uk and www.starstore.com
Step five: Safeguard your collection. How you store and look after your collection will have a significant part to play in its eventual value. For more significant collections consider using a reputable company for advice when buying and selling.