Do old matchbooks have any value?

Do old matchbooks have any value?

Any matchcover that has been used, torn, stained or mutilated would have a much diminished value unless it was extremely rare or important. Also, covers which fall into major collectible categories are worth more than those which do not fall into any particular category.

What are collectors of matchbooks and match covers called?

Phillumeny (also known as phillumenism) is the hobby of collecting different match-related items: matchboxes, matchbox labels, matchbooks, matchcovers, matchsafes, etc.

What are match holders?

In homes, iron and brass wall match holders generally held matchboxes upright behind a screen, allowing a single wooden match to fall conveniently into a bottom tray. Used matches were usually tossed in the fire or placed on an inflammable dish, the kind of ceramics, metal and glass that evolved into modern ashtrays.

How do I store my matchbook collection?

Preserving Your Matchbook Collection. To preserve your matchbook, you’ll need to get rid of the matches, clean the book out, flatten out the matchbook, and store them in an airtight dry area.

What to do with old matches?

If you’re one of those people who amassed a collection of matches and don’t really need or want them, simply soak them in water and then throw them out.

What are the most valuable matchbook covers?

The famous Charles Lindbergh matchcover, dated June 14, 1927, is the most coveted in the hobby. It is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the valuable matchcover in the world, selling for a record $6,000 in 2015.

What are the most valuable vintage matchbooks?

Should You Only Collect Rare or Vintage Matchbooks? The most expensive matchbook is the Charles Lindbergh one, valued at $6,000.

How do you dispose of old matchbooks?

Too Many Matches Visiting a restaurant, bar or nightclub used to involve taking home a souvenir matchbook. If you’re one of those people who amassed a collection of matches and don’t really need or want them, simply soak them in water and then throw them out.

How do I store my old matchbooks?

Coleman said the old matchbooks are chemically very stable, and as long as they are kept in a cool, dry place, they will be fine. He said it’s better to store them in some kind of spark-proof container, and definitely make sure they are out of children’s reach.

What are match safes?

Pocket match safes, called pocket vestas in England, were designed to safely hold early friction matches, which were known to ignite unexpectedly when carried loosely in the pocket or purse. Although these handy containers are rarely seen today, from 1850 to 1915 match safes were extremely popular.

What are the best matchbox covers for collectable matchbooks?

Flattened matchboxes that are decorated with popular cartoons of the time are also available. To keep your prized novelty collectable matchboxes and matchbooks in prime condition, a brass match case cover is the perfect choice. Some unusual book shaped covers feature intricate detail on the spine.

How do I choose the best Matchbox tubes for collecting?

Choose vintage items that include matchbox tubes and other collectables. Rare British Airways Concorde matchboxes are the perfect addition to any collector’s acquisitions. Many phillumenists focus on collecting novelty collectable matchboxes and matchbooks that concentrate on a particular period, style or theme.

What are the different styles of matchboxes?

Some standard sized retro 1960s matchboxes feature a crank handle that powers up a ‘happy birthday’ tune when turned. Souvenir wooden striker collectable matchboxes and matchbooks from the 1970s are often decorated with classic scenic photographs of holiday destinations. Some styles also have matchboxes with ribbon pulls for easy handling.