What happened with Roosevelt’s watch
It’s early March, 2023. Our auction gallery is all set up for preview. Paintings are hung neatly on the slatwall, and shelves are full of interesting historic items. We’re all ready for the following weekend, when our semi-annual themed auction we call “The American...
90 minutes with Paul Reubens
On March 21, 2023, Paul Reubens called me on my mobile to discuss some details about the disposition of several pieces of furniture from his childhood home in Sarasota, Florida. I run an auction gallery about an hour north of there, and a high school friend of his –...
The five stages of collecting
> Fascination, Accumulation, Obsession, Realization & Liquidation I've been chewing on this list for some time now. The idea for it started incubating from a conversation I had years ago with a couple of guys who were selling their father's huge collection of...
A word or two about guns
Blackwell Auctions deals with a lot of firearms, antique and modern. In the 2023 American Sale, we're offered about seven dozen of them. (A complete list of them appears below.) Please know this, though, if you're interested in bidding on a firearm made after 1899: We...
Portrait of Sitting Bull by Caroline Weldon, 1890
On March 18, 2023, Blackwell Auctions sold a painting of one of the most historically important figures of the 19th century, Sitting Bull, the chief who united the Sioux to defeat Gen. George Armstrong Custer at Little Big Horn in 1876. The portrait was one of four...
Officer accuses General William Hull of treason in 1812 surrender of Detroit
Letter with outstanding content, written by Captain John Sharp, who effectively accuses his commander, Brigadier General William Hull, of treason in his surrendering of Detroit to the British General Brock and the Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. Sharp writes: “… great God!...
The Best Collectible Investments You Can Add to Your Portfolio
Discover the charm of collectibles as investment pieces. These unique items offer more than aesthetic appeal; they hold the potential for significant returns. From rare coins to vintage toys, artistry meets history in objects that captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Each...
How to Identify Valuable Antique Guns
Welcome to the intriguing world of antique firearms. Unearthing a valuable piece requires a keen eye for detail and knowledge of historical significance. Rare gun auctions in St. Petersburg present an opportunity to discover such prized possessions, where history...
Collecting Contemporary Artwork at Auctions
Welcome to the vibrant world of contemporary art auctions, where you can discover a diverse array of modern masterpieces. Whether seeking to enhance your collection or wishing to auction your paintings, navigating these events offers both excitement and opportunity....
A Guide to Preserving Your Rare Coin Collection
Your passion for numismatics reflects a love for history and artistry and represents an investment requiring meticulous care. Preservation is key to safeguarding your collection's value. Likewise, understanding the auction process can significantly impact your success...