Finding modern collectables: Junk or a small fortune? - Video
Modern collectors' items worth hundreds of pounds could be hiding in your kitchen or attic.
TV presenter and antiques expert Jamie Breese, from The Antiques Show and Everything Must Go, explains the key thing for a piece of the everyday to become a collectors item is for it to be in mint condition.
His top tip for the everyday to become a collectors' item worth a few bob is for to be in mint condition with original box or cover.
Jamie's tips for spotting a collectable at the back of a cupboard or in the attic:
Know what you have!
Look at eBay to search and find the current value of whatever collectable you have.
Mass produced doesn't mean junk
Even mass produced consumer items, if held for long enough and in good condition - can pick a good price.. A mint condition Bells Whiskey Decanter for Charles and Diana's wedding still in the original box is now making £500 and 'kitchenalia' made by high street names such as Marmite, PG Tips, Colman's, Lurpak, Horlicks and Bovril are all collected in their own right, especially limited edition items.
Modern Antiques
Modern computers are starting to become collectables. A Sinclair ZX80 in a good box cost £99 originally and today the best go for over £750.
"The 1980s and 90s are quite popular now for example. I love early mobile phones - who has kept the first ones from the late 80s in great condition? One to watch for sure," Jamie explains.
Limited edition
"I have handled a copy of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by JK Rowling several times now," says Jamie.
"There were only 300 trade editions published in the first edition print run in the mid 90s. I know one dealer asking for £27,500 for a sparkling example."
With numbered editions, it is good to have the lowest number possible, as well as to keep any certificate of authenticity and all packaging.
Prototypes being one-offs are also desirable.
Authenticity
For signed goods, it is essential to have proof.
"Do you have a photo of Lewis Hamilton signing your book at one of the official launches? Can you prove your uncle worked on the first Star Wars movie and was given a prop by the director?" says Jamie.
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