Vintage iron is not easy to acquire. It is part of what makes it worthwhile, but also what frustrates many. Every collector has a recurring dream about scoring the big one. The one that starts with a random garage sale , a tip from a friend, or a marketplace ad, and ends with iron gold. Undisturbed, in original condition and complete.

The variation of strength implements encompasses a large spectrum of shapes, materials and function. We’ve seen Indian clubs, circus globes, shot-loaded bells and of course, plate loaded bars in recent times. Focusing for a moment on iron plates, it’s important to discuss the basics. The process starts with a design, continues with the casting and culminates with the machining and finishing.

What are rusty weights worth? The value of anything is relative to its desirability and scarcity. Basic supply and demand. This applies universally to new goods as well as collectibles. Collectibles are generally defined as objects amassed as part of a hobby or as a form of investment. Art and cars are straightforward examples. Stamps and rusty iron less so. So how should old iron be valued? It again boils down to supply and demand.

Condition plays a major role in any industry dealing with collectibles and antiques. Some universal terms are used to describe the physical states of objects, but convey vastly different meanings. For example, Mint Condition (originally only used to classify coins) commonly indicates “perfect condition: a state of being like new.” But a stamp in “perfect condition” doesn’t have the same qualifications as a 45-pound plate in “perfect condition.”