So, you’re staring at a cabinet overflowing with collector plates, wondering how they went from cherished possessions to a space-hogging burden. You’re not alone. Millions of people inherit or acquire these decorative items, often realizing their perceived value doesn’t quite match reality. This guide will provide you with realistic options and expert advice on how to effectively and ethically get rid of your collector plates.
Understanding the Collector Plate Market: A Dose of Reality
Before diving into disposal methods, it’s crucial to understand the current market for collector plates. The truth is, the vast majority of collector plates, particularly those mass-produced in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, have very little resale value. Factors contributing to this include overproduction, shifting tastes, and the aging demographic of the original collectors.
Limited Resale Value: Most collector plates simply aren’t rare or desirable enough to command high prices. Many were produced in editions of thousands, even millions, diminishing their scarcity.
Changing Tastes: Interior design trends have moved away from the ornate and sentimental aesthetics often associated with collector plates. Modern homeowners tend to prefer minimalist and contemporary styles.
Aging Collector Base: The primary demographic who purchased these plates initially is aging, and their heirs often aren’t interested in inheriting the collection. This has flooded the market, further depressing prices.
Exceptions to the Rule: There are exceptions. Very old (pre-1900s) plates, artist-signed limited editions with low numbers, and plates featuring highly sought-after designs or historical events can hold value. However, these are rare.
Determining the Value of Your Plates
The first step in deciding how to get rid of your plates is to assess their potential value. This will help you determine the best course of action, whether it’s attempting to sell them or simply donating them.
Research and Identification: Look for identifying marks on the back of the plate. This usually includes the manufacturer’s name, the title of the plate, the artist’s name (if applicable), and the edition number.
Online Marketplaces: Check completed listings on eBay and other online marketplaces to see what similar plates have actually sold for, not just what they are listed for. This is a crucial distinction. Pay attention to the condition of the sold plates.
Professional Appraisal: For potentially valuable or antique plates, consider getting a professional appraisal from an antiques dealer or appraiser specializing in collectibles. This will involve a fee, but it can be worthwhile if you suspect you have something truly valuable.
Beware of “Collector Plate Guides”: Many online guides promise high values for specific plates. Be very skeptical of these claims. The actual selling price is determined by the current market demand, not a published guide.
Exploring Your Options: Selling, Donating, or Repurposing
Once you have a realistic understanding of the potential value (or lack thereof) of your plates, you can explore your options for getting rid of them. These typically fall into three categories: selling, donating, or repurposing.
Selling Your Collector Plates
If your assessment suggests that your plates might have some resale value, here are some avenues you can explore:
Online Marketplaces (eBay, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace): eBay is the most popular platform for selling collectibles. Be prepared to pay listing fees and shipping costs. Etsy may be suitable if your plates have a unique or vintage aesthetic. Facebook Marketplace is a local option that can save on shipping, but requires more direct interaction with buyers.
Consignment Shops: Consignment shops specialize in selling used items. They will take a percentage of the sale price as a commission. This can be a convenient option, but be sure to research the shop’s reputation and commission rates.
Antique Dealers: If you believe you have particularly valuable plates, contact antique dealers in your area. They may be interested in purchasing them outright or selling them on consignment.
Local Auctions: Auction houses can be a good option for selling a large collection of plates. However, be aware that auction fees can be significant, and there’s no guarantee of a high selling price.
Things to Keep in Mind When Selling: Take clear, well-lit photos of your plates. Accurately describe their condition, including any chips, cracks, or scratches. Price your plates competitively based on your research. Be prepared to negotiate with buyers. Package your plates carefully to prevent damage during shipping.
Donating Your Collector Plates
If your plates have little or no resale value, donating them can be a rewarding option.
Charitable Organizations: Consider donating your plates to local charities, such as Goodwill, Salvation Army, or Habitat for Humanity ReStore. These organizations can sell the plates in their stores to raise funds for their programs.
Thrift Stores: Thrift stores operated by churches or community groups are another option. Check with them to see if they accept donations of decorative items.
Nursing Homes or Assisted Living Facilities: Some nursing homes or assisted living facilities may be interested in using your plates for decorative purposes or in their craft programs. Contact them directly to inquire.
Schools or Art Programs: Art programs in schools might find use for the plates as decorative items or in art projects.
Benefits of Donating: You can declutter your home, support a worthy cause, and receive a tax deduction for your donation (if you itemize).
Repurposing or Reusing Collector Plates
If selling or donating isn’t appealing, consider getting creative and repurposing your collector plates.
Mosaic Projects: Break the plates into pieces and use them to create mosaics for tabletops, walls, or garden art.
Jewelry Making: Use small pieces of the plates to create unique pendants, earrings, or other jewelry.
Wall Art: Create a gallery wall by hanging your plates in a creative arrangement. You can paint the plates or add other embellishments to personalize them.
Serving Dishes: If your plates are food-safe, you can use them as serving dishes for appetizers or desserts. However, be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure they are safe for food use.
Gifts: For the right person, a plate might make a thoughtful gift, especially if it relates to a hobby or interest.
Creative Ideas: Use plates as coasters, make a wind chime, or glue them to flower pots for decoration.
Ethical Considerations: Disclosing Information
Regardless of whether you choose to sell, donate, or repurpose your collector plates, it’s important to be ethical and transparent.
Be Honest About Condition: Accurately describe the condition of your plates, including any flaws. Don’t try to hide damage or exaggerate their value.
Provide Accurate Information: If you’re selling your plates, provide accurate information about their manufacturer, artist, and edition number.
Disclose Food Safety: If you’re repurposing plates for food use, be sure to verify that they are food-safe.
The Sentimental Value Factor
Sometimes, the biggest hurdle in getting rid of collector plates is the sentimental value attached to them. Even if the plates have little monetary worth, they may hold memories of loved ones or significant events.
Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel sentimental about your plates. Acknowledge those feelings and allow yourself time to process them.
Keep a Few Favorites: You don’t have to get rid of every single plate. Keep a few that hold the most sentimental value to you.
Take Photos: Before you get rid of your plates, take photos of them. This will allow you to preserve the memories associated with them without having to keep the actual plates.
Share the Story: If the plates have a story behind them, share that story with family members or friends.
Create a Display: If you’re struggling to part with your plates, create a small display of your favorites. This will allow you to enjoy them without having to store a large collection.
Protecting Yourself: Safe Disposal Practices
If your plates are broken or damaged beyond repair, it’s important to dispose of them safely.
Wrap the Pieces: Wrap the broken pieces in newspaper or bubble wrap to prevent them from cutting you or others.
Label the Package: Label the package clearly as “Broken Glass” to warn sanitation workers.
Dispose of Properly: Dispose of the wrapped pieces in a sturdy trash container.
Recycling Considerations: Check with your local recycling program to see if they accept broken ceramics.
Long-Term Solutions: Preventing Future Accumulation
Once you’ve successfully gotten rid of your collector plates, take steps to prevent future accumulation.
Be Mindful of Purchases: Think carefully before acquiring new collectibles. Consider whether you truly need them and whether you’ll still want them in the future.
Communicate Your Preferences: Let family members and friends know that you’re not interested in receiving collector plates as gifts.
Declutter Regularly: Regularly declutter your home to prevent items from accumulating.
Embrace Minimalism: Consider embracing a minimalist lifestyle. This will help you to focus on experiences rather than material possessions.
Getting rid of collector plates can be a challenging process, but by following these tips, you can declutter your home, support worthy causes, and find new ways to appreciate your possessions. Remember to be realistic about the value of your plates, explore your options carefully, and be ethical in your dealings. Good luck!
Are my collector plates actually worth anything?
The unfortunate reality is that the secondary market for most collector plates has significantly declined. Many plates produced in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s were mass-produced with artificially inflated values, leading to a glut on the market. While some rare or limited-edition plates featuring highly sought-after artists or subjects might hold value, the vast majority are worth far less than their original purchase price, often fetching only a few dollars, if anything.
To determine the potential worth of your plates, research similar plates on online auction sites like eBay (looking at completed listings to see actual selling prices, not just asking prices) or consult with a reputable appraiser specializing in collectibles. Factors like condition, artist, plate number, and subject matter will influence the value. Be prepared for the possibility that your plates might be better suited for donation or creative reuse than for resale.
What’s the best way to sell my collector plates?
Several options exist for selling collector plates, each with its own pros and cons. Online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace offer the broadest reach but require you to handle listing creation, photography, shipping, and customer service. Consignment shops specializing in antiques or collectibles may be a good choice if you prefer someone else to manage the sale, but they will take a percentage of the final price.
Local antique dealers or auction houses might be interested in purchasing your plates outright, especially if you have a larger collection or some potentially valuable pieces. However, they will likely offer a lower price than you might achieve through individual sales. Yard sales or flea markets are another option for selling plates quickly and locally, but expect to sell them at a very low price.
How do I donate collector plates responsibly?
Donating collector plates can be a rewarding way to give them a new purpose. Before donating, contact local charities, thrift stores, or organizations like Habitat for Humanity to inquire if they accept donations of decorative plates. Some organizations may have limited storage space or prefer donations of more practical items. Ensure the plates are clean and in good condition before donating.
Consider donating to organizations that use donated items for fundraising events or art projects. Schools or community centers might also appreciate plates for educational purposes or decorative projects. Be sure to obtain a receipt for your donation, as it may be tax deductible. By carefully selecting your donation recipient, you can ensure your plates find a new home and contribute to a worthy cause.
Can I repurpose collector plates in creative ways?
Repurposing collector plates offers a fantastic way to give them new life and prevent them from ending up in landfills. Consider transforming plates into unique home décor items, such as mosaic tiles, wall art, or even clock faces. With a little creativity and some basic craft supplies, you can create personalized pieces that reflect your individual style.
Plates can also be used to create functional items. For example, they can be used as serving platters (ensure they are food-safe if used for this purpose), coasters, or even drawer knobs. Explore online tutorials and crafting communities for inspiration and ideas on how to upcycle your collector plates into beautiful and useful creations.
How should I package collector plates for shipping?
Properly packaging collector plates for shipping is crucial to prevent damage during transit. Start by wrapping each plate individually in bubble wrap, ensuring multiple layers for ample protection. Place the wrapped plates in sturdy cardboard boxes, using packing peanuts or other cushioning material to fill any empty spaces and prevent movement.
For added security, consider double-boxing the plates by placing the first box inside a slightly larger box with more cushioning material. Clearly label the outside of the box with “Fragile” and “Handle with Care” warnings. Purchase shipping insurance to protect yourself against loss or damage during shipping. Choose a reputable shipping carrier that offers tracking and reliable service.
What do I do if my collector plates are damaged?
If your collector plates are damaged, assess the extent of the damage to determine the best course of action. Minor chips or cracks might be repairable with specialized adhesives designed for ceramics. Professional ceramic restoration services can repair more significant damage, but the cost may be prohibitive depending on the value of the plate.
For irreparably damaged plates, consider using the fragments for mosaic projects or other creative endeavors. Alternatively, dispose of the broken pieces carefully and responsibly. Wrap the sharp fragments securely in newspaper or cardboard before placing them in the trash to prevent injury. Contact your local waste management authority for specific guidelines on disposing of broken ceramics.
Are there any collector plates that are still considered valuable today?
While the vast majority of mass-produced collector plates from the late 20th century have lost significant value, some exceptions exist. Plates featuring artwork by renowned artists, such as Norman Rockwell or Salvador Dali, might still command a premium price, particularly if they are limited editions or in pristine condition. Plates with historical significance or those commemorating important events may also hold value.
Certain porcelain manufacturers, such as Royal Copenhagen or Bing & Grondahl, continue to produce collectible plates that maintain their value over time. These plates are typically made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship and feature unique designs. Researching specific artists, manufacturers, and subjects can help you identify any potentially valuable plates within your collection. Consulting with an appraiser is also advisable for accurate valuation.