Investing in rare books and memorabilia with autographs could be your next great financial move. This form of investment isn’t just profitable—it’s also really enjoyable. Take it from me; I’ve been collecting rare Chinese coins since my days as a student in China back in 1997. These coins might be worth a fortune today, especially since some of my collection is now displayed in prestigious museums like the British Museum.
Here’s why I’m all in on collectibles: they’re tangible. You get to hold history in your hands, enjoy it for a while, and possibly sell it later at a profit. During my coin-collecting phase, I dove deep into the history and nuances of these coins, even learning to distinguish fakes from real treasures. Now, let’s talk about other collectibles like rare books, comics, and sneakers, which are more accessible and less costly to start collecting than you might think.
The pandemic, for all its downsides, has added value to certain assets like real estate and collectibles. With fewer in-person events, signed items became rarer, boosting their value. That’s why I’m now focusing on collecting signed books. Without the pandemic, I’d have held numerous book signings, but now, those signed copies are limited, making each one even more special.
If you’re considering this investment route, start small. Look for up-and-coming authors or first editions. These books not only enrich your knowledge but also hold potential for significant financial appreciation. Remember, every signed book was once just a regular book—until it wasn’t. Whether it’s through finding an error in a first edition that makes it rare or simply choosing a book that strikes an emotional chord, the thrill of hunting down these collectibles is unmatched.
And if you ever stumble upon a signed first edition at a reasonable price, consider it not just a purchase but a potential investment that could pay dividends far exceeding its original cost.
