Collecting Antique Postal Scales
You'd think it would be hard to find an antique postal scale, but they're actually quite common. Some websites have large collections for sale; others have just one or two, and they can be beauties. Depending on the kind you want, expect to pay from less than $100 to more than $1,000. Before you make any purchase, though, do your homework so you know you're getting your money's worth.
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Instructions
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Learn about different kinds of scales on informative websites (see Resources below). Antique postal scales are popular among many collectors--you'll see spring scales, balances and other kinds of weighing technologies from the past.
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Shop around for scales online--you'll be amazed at the wide variety of products and prices. You can find brass spring scales for $100 or less, European pendulum scales for about $300 and English balance scales for just under $500. You also can bid for a scale in an online auction.
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Before you buy an antique scale, find out what it's worth. Locate an antiques appraiser in your community, or use an appraisal website. If you're looking at an expensive item, it might be wise to have it appraised in person.
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Join the International Society of Antique Scale Collectors. You can meet other collectors, gather information, compare notes and attend the annual conference. The conference includes a silent auction where you can bid on scales that range from small and inexpensive to rare and pricey.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're ever in Gloucester, England, be sure to check out the antique postal scales at the Scales and Rural Museum.
