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SunApr 9

National Cherish an Antique Day – April 9, 2023

National Cherish an Antique Day is celebrated each year on April 9. We know that most antiques have a historical value. We all have some kind of antique at home — be it crockery, handlooms, jewelry, or showpieces. These valued possessions carry historical and cultural value. Antiques are a great way to learn about the treasured stories of the object and to whom it belonged to. National Cherish an Antique Day celebrates the history behind antique items and it also gives you new ideas of how these objects can prove useful to you now. You can also learn about the collectors who document history through preservation and upkeep.

History of National Cherish an Antique Day

Archaeologists and historians have unmasked various ways to preserve history. Antiques can provide a unique perspective of how people cherish and look after things that are dear to them, as well as how these objects become heirlooms. Antiques specifically refer to the preclassical and classical cultures of the ancient world. People began to collect antiques around the 16th century when English and European collectors would trade them for money. Most of these trades would happen among the upper-class members of the late Renaissance society. It was not until the 18th century that both public and private members would begin to collect antiques.

This started alongside the development of art and the science of archaeology. During the 18th century, preserving authentic antiques became a skill, and dedicated craftsmen would be appointed to take care of the antiques. These antiques included books, possessions, and mementos left behind by families. These antiques go on to become popular among collectors of both arts and historical artifacts. National Cherish an Antique Day also acknowledges people who collect antiques from all over the world.

National Cherish an Antique Day gives people the chance to explore the world of antiques through museums and antique shops. This day allows those with antiques to look into the history of their families. Those who repair antiques and bring them back to life should also be appreciated on this day.

National Cherish an Antique Day timeline

Pre-1899
Antique Firearms

Firearms from 1899 and before are seen as antiques in America.

1930
United States Tariff Act

Import duty is exempted on historical and antique goods.

1935
Antique Automobile Club of America

Since 1935 the A.A.C.A. aims to preserve and enjoy the history of automotive antiques.

2006
International Confederation of Traders in Works of Art

A confederation of art and antique associations across 19 countries is founded.

National Cherish an Antique Day FAQs

What is the difference between the terms ‘antique’ and ‘vintage’?

An item should be at least 100 years old to be defined as an antique. An item that is classified as vintage could be between 20 to 100 years old. 

How do you know if something is an antique?

If your item is 100 years old, it will be classified as an antique. Go to your local antique dealer to find out whether your item is an antique.

How do I know if my antiques are worth something?

It is possible to find out how much your antiques are worth by simply asking an antique dealer or an appraiser at an auction house.

How To Celebrate National Cherish an Antique Day

  1. Take a look at the antiques in your home

    Celebrate National Cherish an Antique Day by taking the time to look at the antiques in your home, and to also appreciate them.

  2. Discover the history of your antiques

    Ask the elders in your family why they hold on to the antiques and what the history of the antique is.

  3. Visit an antique shop

    Take a trip to your local antique shop and look around for beautiful antiques to decorate your home with. Spend some time with an antique collector and learn about the craftsmanship of antique collecting.

5 Facts About Antiques That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Some antiques are more popular than others

    Clocks are the most popular antique collectibles.

  2. A firearm from the late 13th century

    This firearm was found in China, where gunpowder was used 700 years before the west.

  3. Humans created furniture when settling into homes

    The earliest furniture was very primitive and functionality was the main feature.

  4. The oldest antiques in the US

    Thomas Mulninert created furniture in the colony of New Haven between 1639 and 1650.

  5. Romans used the first spoons

    The first spoons were used by the Romans, but spoons quickly became unpopular until the Middle Ages when Europeans began using them.

Why We Love National Cherish an Antique Day

  1. Antiques tell the history of who we are

    Antiques that have been passed on from one generation to another carry stories of the family. They illustrate our beginning and inform us of our history.

  2. Antiques have a historical significance

    Antiques have a historical significance. They display the craftsmanship of their times and over time they become priceless objects.

  3. Antique collecting is an art

    National Cherish an Antique Day also celebrates collectors who carefully collect antiques and who work tirelessly for their upkeep.

National Cherish an Antique Day dates

YearDateDay
2023April 9Sunday
2024April 9Tuesday
2025April 9Wednesday
2026April 9Thursday
2027April 9Friday

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