Dear Lee,

Each month we read more than 100 publications and search online sites for news about the antiques and collectibles market. Right now this story is everywhere: Collectors are back and buying, the mood at shops and auctions is upbeat, and shows are reporting record attendance and good sales.

New York City hosted several major events in January. The Antiques at the Piers show, which included country, formal, and collectibles, attracted more furniture buyers and decorators than last year and record numbers of visitors. Sales were good. One dealer sold an 18th-century Italian commode to an Italian dealer shipping it home. The Armory show, which has high- and medium-priced European and American antiques, reported good crowds, many high-end sales, and happy dealers. Americana did well; a quilt with four appliquéd eagles and a 15-star flag was priced $15,500. The American Antiques Show, a 45-dealer show with paintings, rugs, jewelry, folk art, and furniture, had lines of people waiting to get in. Sales included two life-sized carved penguins for $85,000 and a voodoo-themed tall-case clock for $45,000. Major and very pricey winter auctions at Sotheby’s, Christie’s, Doyle, and Phillips all reported good sales, too.

Outside of New York City, a Craftsman auction in New Jersey sold a Stickley desk for $115,000 at a sale that bought $1.9 million. The Miami shows did well, too (see “On the Road”), and eBay, although selling only about 40% of the antiques offered, reported strong total sales and higher profits. The company is trying to increase traffic and sales in antiques and collectibles. An antiques wholesaler in Nebraska told us that buyers were back in numbers she hadn’t seen since 9/11.

Individual dealers are saying the same things. Business is good for those who are keeping up with the times and offering what is wanted in their areas, whether it’s rare toys, arts and crafts, Victoriana, or the very popular ’50s and ’60s pieces. They also are creating interesting booths at shows, malls, and flea markets. Many find specializing in art pottery or textiles or glass works well. So let’s all keep the economy going-go buy the antiques that furnish your house or appeal to your inner child. And laugh knowingly at the quote by humor columnist Dave Barry: “There is a very fine line between ‘hobby’ and ‘mental illness.'”