by Glena Dunn
Two years ago, it was a change of venue for the Las Vegas Antique Bottle & Collectibles Club’s Annual Show & Sale. The shift to the Henderson Convention Center at 200 South Water Street, Henderson, proved to be a good move for the annual show that has been a favorite of antiques’ seekers and sellers for over fifty years.
This year, for its 53rd Annual Show & Sale, the club has changed the long-standing dates of mid-February, moving forward by two weeks to Friday and Saturday, March 2 and 3. If you had established the Show & Sale in February as your traditional Valentine excursion, why not give your loved one a rain check for March so you can still enjoy the fun of picking out something special together.
Just as the club has evolved to be more than just bottle collectors, the show presents a wide variety of antique and collectible categories. The trappings of the Old West are always well represented, with Native American jewelry, textiles, baskets, western posters, tooled holsters and other leather goods, books, pottery, pocket watches, knives and, of course, dug bottles. Additional categories include coin, casino collectibles, postcards and other ephemera, toys, advertising, costume jewelry, buttons, cut glass, Coca Cola and more.
Those searching for vintage collectibles to add authenticity to their trending ‘Farm Style Decor’ will find milk bottles and carriers along with Mason and Ball jars by the dozens. The range of collectibles and prices ensures everyone can take home a treasure or two. Seasoned dealers are happy to share and talk about their lifetime collections knowing that new collectors often emerge from such conversations.
Early Bird admission to the Show & Sale on Friday is $10 from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon. Regular hours are Noon to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Regular admission is $5 both days.
The 53rd Annual Show chairman is Nick Valenti. As the club decides on what can be improved each year, including price rollbacks on both selling tables and entrance fees, Nick rolls out the changes. The results have included more people coming out to enjoy a great time, fulfilling the club’s mission of sharing the enthusiasm and knowledge of collecting. For dealer participation, call Nick at 702-415-1568 or email nv1948@cox.net.
Glena Dunn is Publisher of The Country Register of Southern Nevada.