How to Distinguish Between Antiques and Reproductions

Finding an antique in a shop or at an auction can be a terrific discovery. But how do you know whether the little Kewpie doll or the Civil War sword you have found is a genuine item of value, or simply a reproduction with very little actual monetary worth? You have to learn to distinguish between antiques and reproductions. Then you can find out if your "find of the century" will really put you on the road to riches. Read on to learn how to distinguish between antiques and reproductions.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check for signs of age. If the item looks shiny and new, chances are it is not the real thing. However, keep in mind that features like rust or patina can be faked by clever uses of materials and paints.

2. Inspect the object thoroughly. Check for a label, carving or imprint somewhere towards the bottom of the item that indicates that the item is a reproduction of an antique. Reproduction labels are inconspicuous, but easy to distinguish if you look for them.

3. Look for a signature or manufacturer's imprint, which can also usually be found on the underside of the item. Compare that signature or imprint with an image of the actual thing. Often, this symbol will be accompanied by a date. Do a bit of sleuthing to determine whether that manufacturer indeed made those types of items during the year indicated on the piece.

4. Ask for the item's provenance or history. Where has it been? To whom did it belong? An item with a detailed history is more likely to be genuine.

5. Get a second opinion. If a private owner wants to sell you an item as an antique, ask a local antique dealer to take a look at it. If an antique dealer you don't know very well tries to sell you an item, bring in another antique dealer whom you trust to gauge the item's value for you.

Tips & Warnings

• People who make reproductions of antiques are usually not forgers. They are artists. They will reproduce a particular piece because they admire the style and want to honor it. But honest reproduction artists will always clearly label their work as reproductions.
• Get to know your antique dealers. Find a shop you like and can trust and use it for all your antique needs. If you know you can trust your antique dealer, there is less chance of buying a reproduction.
• Even though most reproduction artists are honest and up front about their work, there are still some forgers out there. Some of them are very clever and may be able to age their reproductions artificially or make up a rich history for them, to make them seem more real. Always be on your guard and talk to a trustworthy expert before you buy. Distinguishing between antiques and reproductions is their business.

Resources

• Distinguish Between Antiques and Reproductions Online With Crawford Direct