Starting Your Map and Globe Collection: Finding, Evaluating, and Beginning Your Journey # Embarking on Your Cartographic Quest: A Guide to Starting Your Map and Globe Collection The allure of maps and globes is undeniable. These fascinating objects are more than just geographical tools; they are windows into history, art, and human exploration. Holding an antique map or spinning a vintage globe connects you to different eras, revealing how the world was understood and depicted centuries ago. Whether you are drawn to the artistry of early cartography, the historical context of changing borders, or simply the aesthetic beauty they bring to a space, starting a collection of maps and globes can be an incredibly rewarding journey.

However, for the budding collector, the vast world of cartographic treasures can seem daunting. Where do you begin? How do you find genuine pieces amidst reproductions? What should you look for to ensure you are making wise acquisitions? These are common questions that can feel overwhelming at first glance. This comprehensive guide is designed to demystify the process and provide you with the essential knowledge needed to confidently start and build your map and globe collection. We will explore the various avenues available for sourcing these unique items, delve into the critical factors you must evaluate before making a purchase, and offer practical advice on laying the foundation for your collection based on your budget, available space, and personal interests.

This post focuses specifically on the practical aspects of *finding and acquiring* maps and globes, covering the key areas of where to look, what characteristics define a desirable piece, and how to approach the initial steps of collecting smart. By the end, you will feel empowered to begin your own cartographic quest, equipped with the insights to discover the perfect pieces that resonate with your passion for history, geography, and art.

## Where to Unearth Your Treasures: Navigating Sources for Maps and Globes One of the most exciting parts of collecting is the hunt. The thrill of discovery, finding a piece that speaks to you, or unearthing a rare gem can be incredibly satisfying. Fortunately, there are numerous places where you can find maps and globes, ranging from online platforms to brick-and-mortar establishments. Each source offers different advantages and potential pitfalls, and understanding these differences is crucial for successful collecting.

Your approach to sourcing will likely evolve as your collection grows and your knowledge deepens. Initially, you might explore a wide variety of sources to get a feel for what is available and at what price points. As you refine your focus, you might gravitate towards more specialized dealers or auction houses known for specific types of cartographic material. Patience and persistence are key qualities for any collector, and exploring various avenues will undoubtedly lead to fascinating discoveries.

Let's explore some of the most common and effective places to find maps and globes for your collection.

### Online Marketplaces and Auction Sites The internet has revolutionized collecting, providing access to a global inventory of maps and globes from dealers and individuals alike. Major online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and specialized platforms for antiques and collectibles host thousands of listings. Online auction sites, including platforms like LiveAuctioneers, Invaluable, and the websites of established auction houses (Sotheby's, Christie's, Heritage Auctions, etc.), offer opportunities to bid on potentially higher-value or rarer items.

The primary advantage of online sources is the sheer volume and variety of items available. You can search specifically for maps of a certain region, globes from a particular era, or works by a known cartographer without leaving your home. This accessibility allows for easy comparison of prices and conditions across multiple sellers. However, the significant drawback is the inability to physically inspect the item before purchasing. You are reliant on the seller's description, photographs, and reputation. It is absolutely critical to research sellers thoroughly, read reviews, ask detailed questions, and request additional photographs if needed. Understand the platform's buyer protection policies before making a purchase.

### Antique Shops and Galleries Visiting antique shops and galleries offers a completely different, often more tactile, experience. Walking through a shop and browsing shelves or flat files can lead to unexpected discoveries. Unlike online listings, you can often handle the maps (carefully!) or examine the globe up close, assessing its condition, paper quality, and coloring firsthand. This allows for a more intuitive connection with a potential acquisition.

The expertise of shop owners and staff can vary greatly. Some antique dealers specialize in paper goods or scientific instruments and may have extensive knowledge about maps and globes. Others may have acquired items as part of larger collections and have limited information. Do not be afraid to ask questions, but also be prepared to do your own research. Prices in antique shops can sometimes be negotiable, offering an opportunity to acquire pieces at a fair value, though they might be higher than those found at less curated sources due to overhead and the dealer's markup.

### Specialty Map and Globe Dealers For serious collectors, or those looking for authenticated, high-quality, or rare pieces, specialty map and globe dealers are invaluable resources. These dealers dedicate their business solely to cartographic material and possess deep knowledge of the field. They can authenticate pieces, provide detailed historical context, offer conservation advice, and often have access to items not readily available elsewhere.

Acquiring pieces from a reputable specialty dealer provides a higher level of confidence regarding authenticity, condition description, and provenance. They are often members of professional associations (like the International Map Collectors' Society or local map societies) which adhere to ethical standards. While prices from specialty dealers are typically higher than those found in antique shops or online marketplaces due to their expertise, authentication, and often superior condition of stock, they represent a sound investment, especially for significant pieces. Building a relationship with a dealer can also lead to them keeping an eye out for items that fit your specific collecting interests.

### Estate Sales and Auctions Estate sales and local auctions can be excellent sources for finding maps and globes, often at prices significantly below retail. When someone is liquidating a lifetime collection, valuable pieces can sometimes be overlooked or grouped with less important items. This is where a sharp eye and some luck can pay off.

However, estate sales and auctions require quick thinking and the ability to assess items under pressure. You typically have limited time to examine items before the sale begins. Condition reports may be minimal or non-existent, and items are usually sold "as is." Authentication is entirely up to the buyer. While the potential for a bargain is high, so is the risk of acquiring a damaged or non-authentic item. Researching typical values beforehand and setting a maximum bidding price are essential strategies for navigating these sales successfully.

### Bookstores (Used and Antiquarian) Maps have historically been printed within books and atlases, making used and antiquarian bookstores surprising sources for collectible cartography. Old atlases can be a treasure trove of individual maps, though detaching them often reduces the value of the atlas itself. Loose maps might also be found tucked inside books or sold separately.

Antiquarian bookstores, in particular, may have sections dedicated to maps or books containing significant cartographic content. The staff in these stores often have a good understanding of the value of such items. Browsing used bookstores is a more serendipitous process, requiring patience and a willingness to search through stacks and shelves. You might find common maps at very reasonable prices or occasionally stumble upon something truly special. Always handle paper items in bookstores with extreme care to avoid damage.

### Museum and Library Sales While infrequent and highly competitive, some museums and libraries occasionally deaccession items from their collections. This process involves formally removing items that are duplicates, outside the scope of their collection, or in poor condition, and sometimes selling them to fund new acquisitions or conservation efforts. Such sales, often conducted through auction, can offer access to items with impeccable provenance.

These opportunities are rare and usually announced through specific channels, often to members or through specialized collecting societies. Items offered can range from common duplicates to truly unique or significant pieces. While not a regular source for building a collection, keeping an eye out for such sales from institutions relevant to your geographic or thematic interests can occasionally yield extraordinary finds.

### Flea Markets and Garage Sales At the opposite end of the spectrum from specialty dealers and institutional sales are flea markets and garage sales. These venues offer the lowest prices and the highest variability in terms of quality, authenticity, and condition. The vast majority of maps and globes found here will be modern reproductions, incomplete, or in poor condition.

However, the allure of the "barn find" or the hidden gem keeps collectors sifting through piles of miscellaneous goods. Occasionally, an old map or globe that was simply stored away and forgotten about surfaces at a rock-bottom price. Acquiring items from these sources is truly a game of chance and requires the collector to have a strong understanding of what to look for and how to evaluate condition quickly. It is an excellent place to practice your evaluation skills without significant financial risk, perhaps picking up interesting but not necessarily valuable pieces for decorative purposes or initial learning.

Successfully navigating these sources requires research, patience, and developing a discerning eye. As you gain experience, you will learn which sources are most likely to yield the types of items you seek and how to approach each one effectively.

## Becoming a Discriminating Buyer: What to Evaluate Before You Acquire Finding potential additions to your collection is only the first step. The more critical step is evaluating them to determine their authenticity, condition, historical significance, and ultimately, whether they are a good fit for your collection and budget. This evaluation process is where knowledge and experience truly pay off. Developing a critical eye will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you acquire pieces that are genuinely valuable and meaningful to you.

Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating a map or globe for purchase.

### Authenticity and Provenance Is the map or globe genuine? In the world of collecting, reproductions and fakes exist, and some can be quite convincing, especially to the untrained eye. Original antique maps are typically printed using techniques like copper engraving, steel engraving, or lithography on specific types of paper often with a watermark. Modern reproductions are usually printed using offset lithography or digital methods on contemporary paper, which feels and looks different. Examining the paper texture, the clarity of the lines (engraved lines have a certain crispness and sometimes a slight plate mark impression), and looking for watermarks can provide clues.

Provenance, the history of ownership, can also help authenticate a piece. If a map or globe comes from a known reputable source, like a long-standing collection or a respected dealer, its authenticity is more likely. While provenance is not always available, it adds significant value and confidence when it is. Researching the known works of a cartographer or publisher and comparing the potential acquisition to known authentic examples is also a vital step in verifying authenticity. Be wary of items with inconsistent details or materials that do not match the stated age.

### Condition (Paper, Coloring, Frame/Stand) Condition is one of the most significant factors affecting the value and desirability of a map or globe. Maps are typically printed on paper, which is fragile and susceptible to damage over time.

For maps, examine the paper for:
1. Tears, rips, or missing pieces, especially along folds or margins.
2. Stains, including water stains, foxing (brown spots caused by acidity), or mold.
3. Folds or creases that were not part of the original printing process.
4. Color fading or discoloration.
5. Repairs: Are they professionally done and discreet, or amateur and visible? Patching, tape, or excessive glue can devalue a map.
6. Acidic matting or backing if framed, which can cause deterioration over time.

For globes, assess:
1. The condition of the gores (the printed paper strips that form the sphere): Are they intact, lifting, cracked, or discolored?
2. Dents, scratches, or abrasions on the sphere itself.
3. The clarity and condition of the printing and coloring.
4. The condition of the stand, base, and meridian ring: Are they original, damaged, repaired, or missing parts? Is the mechanism allowing the globe to spin or tilt functioning correctly?

Professional conservation can repair damage and stabilize pieces, but conservation work should be done by experts and should be reversible where possible. A piece in poor condition will be significantly less valuable than one in fine condition, even if it is rare. Learn to distinguish between minor flaws acceptable for its age and significant damage that detracts from its value and appearance.

### Rarity and Historical Significance How rare is the map or globe you are considering? Rarity is determined by factors like the number of copies originally produced, how many have survived, and the demand for that particular item. A map from a limited edition atlas, a globe by a maker with low production numbers, or a map depicting a significant but short-lived historical event might be rarer than a widely published map from a common atlas edition.

Historical significance relates to the map's or globe's importance in documenting geographical understanding, political boundaries, exploration, or scientific knowledge at the time it was created. A map showing early misconceptions of coastlines, a globe incorporating the latest discoveries, or a map used during a specific historical conflict carries historical weight. Understanding the context of when and why the map or globe was created adds to its story and desirability. Researching the specific item and its place in cartographic history is crucial for assessing its significance.

### Aesthetic Appeal While rarity and historical significance are important, the aesthetic appeal of a map or globe is often what initially draws a collector in. The beauty of the engraving, the quality and vibrance of the original hand-coloring, the decorative cartouches (ornamental frames around the title, dedication, or legend), and the overall composition contribute to its visual attractiveness. For globes, the craftsmanship of the stand and meridian, as well as the coloring and detail on the sphere, play a large role.

Aesthetic appeal is subjective and personal taste plays a significant role in what you choose to collect. However, there are widely recognized standards of quality in historical cartography. Fine engraving work, professional and attractive coloring, and well-executed decorative elements generally increase a map's or globe's desirability and value. Consider how the piece will look displayed and whether its appearance brings you joy.

### Maker and Date Identifying the cartographer, engraver, publisher, and date of a map or globe is fundamental to understanding its place in history and determining its value. Famous cartographers (like Mercator, Ortelius, Blaeu) or renowned publishing houses command higher prices due to their reputation for accuracy, artistry, and historical importance. The date indicates the geographical knowledge and political landscape at the time of creation.

Maps and globes can be challenging to date precisely. Maps from atlases might carry the atlas publication date, but the individual map plate might have been engraved earlier or updated later. Globes often underwent revisions to incorporate new discoveries, so the date on the globe might indicate the *version* rather than the exact year of manufacture. Learning to identify common publishers' styles, printing techniques associated with different periods, and researching the details shown on the map (e.g., place names, borders) can help in dating. Look for dates printed on the item, in cartouches, or in the surrounding text if it came from a book.

### Editions and States (for Maps) For collectors focusing on maps from specific atlases or by particular cartographers, understanding the concept of "editions" and "states" is important. An edition refers to a specific published version of an atlas or map series. A "state" refers to a variation within a single printing plate, resulting from minor corrections, additions (like new place names or dedication changes), or wear and tear on the plate.

Different editions of an atlas can contain updated maps or be printed on different quality paper. Variations in states within a printing run can be subtle but might be of interest to collectors focused on the printing history or evolution of a map's depiction. Some states are rarer or considered more desirable than others. Recognizing these nuances requires research and comparison with known examples, often found in scholarly catalogues or online databases dedicated to specific cartographers or atlases.

Evaluating these factors requires research, patience, and a willingness to learn. Do not be afraid to ask questions of dealers or experienced collectors, but always try to verify information independently. Resources like scholarly books, online databases of historical maps, and catalogues from major map dealers or auction houses can be invaluable for research. The more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to make sound collecting decisions.

## Laying the Foundation: Budget, Space, and Defining Your Collecting Path With an understanding of where to find maps and globes and how to evaluate them, the next crucial step is to consider your own resources and interests. Effective collecting is not just about acquiring items; it is about building a cohesive and meaningful collection that reflects your passion and fits within your practical limitations. Before you make your first significant purchase, take some time to plan.

Thinking about your budget, the space you have available, and what specifically you are passionate about will help guide your initial steps and prevent you from making impulse buys that you later regret. It allows you to focus your search and make more deliberate acquisitions that contribute to the overall vision for your collection.

### Setting a Budget One of the first and most important steps is to determine how much you are willing and able to spend. Map and globe prices vary enormously, from a few dollars for a common reproduction or damaged piece to millions for unique, historically significant examples. You absolutely do not need a large budget to start collecting. Many fascinating and attractive historical maps and globes can be acquired for reasonable prices, especially if you focus on less famous cartographers, later editions, or specific types of maps like city plans or decorative prints that incorporate cartographic elements.

Decide on an overall budget for starting your collection and perhaps a maximum price you are willing to pay for a single item. This will help narrow down your search to affordable sources and types of items. It is wise to start with more affordable pieces to gain experience in evaluation and care before investing in more expensive items. Remember that costs associated with collecting can also include framing, conservation, storage, and potentially insurance for valuable pieces. Factor these potential future expenses into your planning. Your budget can always be adjusted as your collection grows and your financial situation changes.

### Considering Space Constraints Maps and globes require space, both for storage and display. Unframed maps need flat storage in acid-free folders or drawers to protect them from light, dust, and physical damage. Framed maps take up wall space. Globes, especially floor-standing models, can occupy a significant footprint.

Assess the space you have available in your home or office. Do you have wall space for framed maps? Do you have appropriate flat storage? Can you accommodate a floor globe or do you only have space for a desktop model? Thinking about space upfront will help you decide what types and sizes of items to focus on. If space is limited, you might focus on smaller maps, celestial charts, or miniature globes. Planning for proper storage is also critical for preserving the long-term condition of your collection. Maps should never be stored rolled or folded if possible, unless they were originally issued that way (and even then, flat storage is preferred).

### Defining Your Collection's Focus (Geographic, Thematic, Time Period, Type) Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of starting a collection is defining its focus. While some collectors build general collections, many find greater satisfaction and expertise by specializing. A focus provides direction for your collecting efforts, making the search more manageable and your acquisitions more meaningful. It also allows you to develop deeper knowledge within a specific niche.

Potential areas of focus include:
1. **Geographic Region:** Maps of your hometown, state, country, a favorite travel destination, or a historically significant area.
2. **Time Period:** Maps and globes from a specific century (e.g., 17th-century Dutch cartography), a particular historical era (e.g., Age of Exploration, Civil War era), or focusing on how a certain region was mapped over time.
3. **Thematic:** Celestial maps, city plans, maps of battles, decorative maps, railway maps, pocket maps, or maps related to specific scientific expeditions.
4. **Cartographer or Publisher:** Collecting works by a favorite historical mapmaker or from a specific publishing house.
5. **Type of Item:** Focusing exclusively on maps, globes, atlases, or even specific forms like miniature globes or wall maps.

Choosing a focus does not mean you can never acquire items outside of it, but it gives you a framework. Start by thinking about what aspects of maps and globes truly fascinate you. Is it the history of your local area? The exploration of unknown lands? The beauty of astrological charts? Your initial focus might be broad and then narrow as you gain experience and discover your deepest interests. Reading books, visiting museums with cartographic collections, and browsing online galleries can help you identify what resonates most with you.

By setting a budget, considering your space, and defining an initial focus, you create a roadmap for your collecting journey. This planning phase is just as important as the acquisition process itself, ensuring that your collection grows in a way that is both sustainable and personally fulfilling.

## The Ongoing Journey: The Joy of the Hunt and Building Connections Starting a map and globe collection is not just about the physical objects you acquire; it is also about the process, the learning, and the connections you make along the way. The initial steps of finding and evaluating are just the beginning of a potentially lifelong passion.

The thrill of searching for a specific piece to fill a gap in your collection, or the unexpected joy of stumbling upon a forgotten treasure, keeps the collecting process exciting. Each new acquisition brings with it an opportunity to learn more about its history, its maker, and the world it represents. You become a steward of history, preserving these fascinating artifacts for future generations.

Furthermore, the world of map and globe collecting is populated by passionate individuals eager to share their knowledge. Joining map societies, attending antique map fairs and auctions, and building relationships with reputable dealers and other collectors can significantly enhance your experience. These connections provide opportunities for learning, networking, and discovering new sources and information. Experts can offer advice on identification, evaluation, conservation, and the history of cartography. Sharing your finds and learning from others' experiences is a rewarding part of the collecting community.

Starting your collection is an invitation to become a detective, historian, art connoisseur, and explorer all in one. It is a hobby that continuously offers new avenues for discovery and intellectual engagement. Armed with knowledge about where to look, what to evaluate, and how to plan your approach, you are well-prepared to begin your own incredible journey into the world of collecting maps and globes. May your quest be filled with fascinating finds and endless learning.