Collecting Antique Maps

What are antique maps?

As the name suggests, they are maps which were produced over 100 years ago for a variety of purposes; such as decorative items and records of explored territory.

Why purchase antique maps?

Antique maps can appeal to anyone, from the one time buyer spending a few pounds or dollars on a unique gift of a piece of history, to a knowledgeable collector anxious to find the missing map to complete a valued and treasured collection. As with all antiques, maps can also make a good investment.

Caring for Antique Maps

Until the end of the 18th century, maps and prints were printed on hand made laid paper, composed of cotton fibres, making the paper very stable.

When mounting an old map, it is necessary to use acid free mounting materials to avoid deterioration of the map itself.

Avoid storing or displaying maps in areas of high humidity or extreme xhanges in temperature.

Consider using UV filtering glass if framing and avoid direct sunlight as hand colour can fade dramatically.