Many factors can affect the value of antique maps. As a rule, the more of these qualities the map possesses, the greater its value.
1. Region represented
There are more collectors of antique maps from some regions than others, which affects the size of the market and therefore the value of maps from those areas. For example, maps of the world have universal appeal. Among nations there are a substantial number of map collectors from the United States, Great Britain, Germany, Australia, and Canada, and increasingly Japan and China.
Washington – The pictorial antique map of the state of Evergreen
Some areas that have small populations but are vacation destinations such as Bermuda, Malta, and some of the West Indian Islands, which makes antique maps of these areas very popular. Areas that are more remote or have smaller, less affluent populations have less demand and are often very decorative and well priced.
2. Historical Significance
Some antique maps, which you can purchase on the OldMapster website, particularly explorers’ maps, are the first to represent an area or historical event. Other maps may represent an important battle or similar event. The closer such maps are to the event, the greater their importance and thus the value they have.
Ancient Maps
3. Size
Generally, the larger the map, the greater the chances that it will be rich in details and decorations, so they are usually more valuable than smaller maps.
4. Rarity
Some ancient maps were issued in small quantities and are therefore relatively rare. If other value-enhancing conditions are present, the map is further enhanced by rarity, but rarity alone does not create value!
5. Age
For similar maps, the oldest is generally the most valuable, but age alone does not determine value since some very old maps of remote regions are of little interest and thus have relatively low value.
