How to Know If an Antique is Valuable – A Guide For Amateurs If you are interested in decorating your home with antiques, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of Americans scour antique shops, online vendors, flea markets, estate sales, and auction houses looking for items that will add charm to their home decorating scheme. But if you also like to collect antiques that have real value, the search gets trickier. Here is a quick guide for amateurs with tips on determining whether or not an antique is valuable. Is it Rare? The number one determinant of value is rarity. If there were few of the piece