Showing posts with label Antique. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Antique. Show all posts

Determining the Value of an Antique Silver Platter Plate

What we have here is an interesting photo shared to us by one of our fellow treasure hunter in this community.

As we can see in the photo below, it is an antique object which is an old silver platter.

He actually wanted to know how much is this antique platter today if he wants to sell it?

Unfortunately, examining a certain antique object such as this one to determine its appropriate price is not easy. It really requires physical examination so relying on this photo alone is not good enough.

2 Ways to Determine the Price of an Antique Plate

There are actually two main bases on how prices are determined for antique plates.

One is by “weight”.

And two is by its “age”.

By Weight

If we are going to price our antique by-weight as its main basis, we are actually basing the price from the weight of the silver material that the object is made of.

So let’s just say for example that we melted our antique silver platter plate then we sold it to the marker for a certain amount of price. This particular price that we got from selling the melted silver is just exactly the same as the price of selling the antique silver platter plate as it is.

If the antique silver platter plate that we have here is made out of pure silver then it is expected that it’s composition is around 92.15 percent silver.

The last time that I checked the price of silver was on January 3, 2022 at a price of 1,178 pesos per ounce.

By Age

If our basis is by the age of the item, then we might be getting more money from it rather than by selling it by its weight. 

When it comes to age, an interested buyer or collector will most likely want to know if the object is a rare kind and it is in good condition. 

If it's rare and still in good condition, we might be getting a much better price offer.

Determining the Actual Value of this Antique Silver Platter Plate

Unfortunately, I cannot determine the appropriate price of this antique silver platter plate because there are many aspects that we need to consider which can only be acquired by examining the object physically. 

Other than examining it physically, it is also very important that we need to know who designed it and when it was made.

We really have to do our research and find out if this antique platter plate is a rare kind and there is a major demand where there are many interested collectors willing to buy it.

The only way that I can give an estimated price for this antique object is to look for other similar objects around. 

Then we can check how much they are worth or how much they were sold. So this is what I did.

As a result, I came across several similar antique platter plates that got sold at a price of around 3,000 pesos and above.

Old Antique Chinese Snuff Jar

One of our fellow treasure hunter in this community has sent us an interesting photo of an “antique Chinese snuff jar”. It has a white color with very beautiful artistic cultural design.

On its front portion, it has a dragon serpent design while at its back is an old Chinese text. So the question asked by our fellow treasure hunter is that he wanted to know my opinion about this antique bottle.

Unfortunately, he did not provide any details about how he acquired this item. So he may either have uncovered it as a treasure hunter or it was passed down to him. 

The only details he gave is that this is a “snuff jar”.

In this photo, we can see the front side of this antique bottle. Based on my analysis, I can say that this is indeed a snuff jar that was originally owned by the Chinese. 

Such bottles often contain traditional medicines.

Snuff jars are intentionally designed to be very artistic. This is the reason why this bottle that we have here has a dragon serpent design. 

In case you do not know, the dragon serpent is the main symbol of China.

In this second photo, this is the opposite side of the bottle where we can see some Chinese writings. These writings have something to do with the original contents of this antique snuff jar. 

Probably, it refers to the type of medicine it originally contained.

Antique snuff jars owned by the Chinese could have a very high amount of price today. But not all antique snuff jars could have such a price because there are several criterias that need to be met.

One of the most important criteria is the age of the item. So the older the snuff jar, the higher the price can be expected.

Two is the original owner of the snuff jar. If the original owner of the bottle was a famous or powerful person in the past then surely, the item is deemed to have a very valuable price.

Currently, the highest snuff jar is valued at a price of 25.3 million Hong Kong dollars. This is equivalent to 1.6 Billion in Philippine Peso

And this snuff jar was an “18th-century Imperial Enamel-Painted Bottle” which has been used by the “Qing Imperial Family”.

Therefore

Antique Chinese snuff jars can be very valuable today. However, there are several criterias in order to identify their current value such as the age, the original owner, and etc…

So when it comes to this snuff jar owned by our fellow treasure hunter, if it belonged to the ancient period of China and it was originally owned by a powerful person in the past then surely we can say that this object is very valuable today.

Antique Ring with Diamonds and Old Pendant

We have here two interesting antique objects that we are going to discuss in this post. One is an antique ring with many embedded diamonds. The second object is an old rectangular shape pendant with interesting engraved designs.

Our fellow treasure hunter who sent the photos of these items wanted to know if these objects really have value if he wants to sell them?

In this photo, we can see the antique ring owned by our fellow treasure hunter in this community.

Although, he did not mention any details on how he discovered this item. So it can either be a recovered treasure deposit or as an inheritance.

Anyway, we can notice in this photo one large gemstone or diamond as the main attraction for this antique ring. 

Aside from this, we can also notice other smaller sized precious stones embedded all over the ring.

According to our fellow treasure hunter, the large stone of this old ring is a “pink diamond”. He did some research about it and he came to know that such a kind of diamond is very rare. 

Since it is very rare, it has a very high estimated amount of price that could go over a million worth of dollars.

I did my own research as well about pink diamonds and I confirm that all the details claimed by our fellow treasure hunter are true. 

However, simply using these photos as a basis if the stones embedded on this old ring are really diamonds is not good enough. 

This requires an actual examination from an expert in the field of “gemology”.

There are actually tools that need to be used to fully confirm if a certain stone is an authentic diamond or not.

In this photo, we can see the second antique object owned by our fellow treasure hunter. It is an old pendant which has a very classic and beautiful design. 

Through its design alone, we can say that this item is indeed a legit antique.

This is the opposite side of this antique pendant where you might already be familiar with this kind of design. 

We can see two main characters , the Archangel Gabriel fighting Satan who end up losing the fight. 

Based on this kind of depiction, I can say that this old pendant originated during the Spanish Occupation in the Philippines.

If both the pendant and the ring have always been together then these two items are from the Spanish period.

Therefore

This antique ring with many embedded diamonds on it can reach a value of worth more than a million dollars but when proven that they are legit diamonds and not just ordinary gemstones.

As for the antique pendant, it does look like a lucky charm. If this item has important historical details such as being owned by a famous person in the past, then it may have a high price.

Kanji Symbol on the Old Antique Jar

We have here a photo that was sent to us by one of our fellow treasure hunter which is an old or antique jar that belonged to the Japanese.

According to him, they call this antique jar “tibod” in their own local language. This means that this particular object has a value similar to the jewelries.

So the question here by our fellow treasure hunter is, “Does this antique jar really have a value?”

This antique jar was owned by his father. 

At some period of time in the past, he overheard a conversation between his older brother and a person who was interested in buying the antique jar for a price of ten thousand pesos. 

During this time, this amount of money was already considered a large sum of money. However, their father disagreed with selling his antique jar.

Time had passed and their father died. Suddenly, his older brother asked him about the old jar. This was the only time that he realized that this antique object was left behind by their father in their own house.

So the older brother had asked him to take photos of the item and then look for a person who can read the Kanji symbol on it.

In this photo, we can see a close photo of the Kanji symbol that he wants to be interpreted. According to him, he actually has a Japanese friend who can read Kanji. 

So he showed this symbol and he interpreted the meaning as “power”.

Studying the symbol on my own, I totally agree that this is a Kanji symbol so as with the interpretation of his Japanese friend. 

So aside from “power”, it can also be interpreted with meanings as “strength, strong, bear up, and exert”

In my own opinion, this meaning probably has something to do with the original content of this old jar.

Aside from the Kanji symbol, our fellow treasure hunter noticed something about his antique jar. He noticed that there seems to be a mixture of gold on it. 

But when it comes into this matter, this really requires an actual examination of the object to fully confirm.

If it happens that this old jar has a mixture of gold then I can say that this object can be heavy. 

And when it comes to its value, the basis will not only be on the weight of the gold but this includes the antique quality of the jar itself.

Therefore

The engraved Kanji symbol on this antique jar has something to do with “power” or “strength”. Based on my own opinion, this meaning has something to do with the details of the original contents of this old jar.

When it comes to the value, surely, this old object has a high price simply because of being antique. And if it happens that it really has a mixture of gold then its value will further increase several times up.

How to Determine the Price of your Antiques

Antiques are valuable assets that have been cherished for generations. However, determining the price of an antique can be a challenging task, especially if you don't know what factors to consider. 

A mispriced antique can lead to a significant loss, either for the buyer or seller. Therefore, it is essential to determine the accurate value of your antique before selling or buying it.

Determining the price of an antique involves various factors, including the condition of the item, its age, rarity, provenance, and the current market demand. 

In this blog, we will discuss the key factors to consider when determining the price of your antiques.

Researching Your Antiques

The first step in determining the price of your antiques is to research them. 

Research helps you identify the type and origin of your antique, determine its age, and research the market value of similar antiques. 

Here are the key steps involved in researching your antiques:

1. Identify the type and origin of your antique 

To determine the price of your antique, you need to identify its type and origin. Knowing the origin and type of the antique can help you research its history and determine its value accurately. 

For example, if you have a piece of furniture, research the style and period in which it was made to help determine its value.

2. Determine the age of your antique

The age of an antique is a crucial factor in determining its value. To determine the age of your antique, you need to consider its design, construction, and materials. 

You can also check for any markings, such as a manufacturer's stamp or a date mark, which can help you determine its age.

3. Research the market value of similar antiques

To determine the market value of your antique, you need to research the prices of similar antiques. 

Check auction house catalogs, antique shops, and online marketplaces to see how much similar items have sold for. This will give you a ballpark figure for the value of your antique.

Assessing the Condition of Your Antiques

The condition of an antique is a significant factor in determining its value. An antique in excellent condition will command a higher price than one in poor condition. 

Here are some key factors to consider when assessing the condition of your antiques:

1. The impact of wear and tear on antique value

Antiques that have been well-maintained and cared for over the years will retain their value better than those that have been heavily used and show signs of wear and tear. 

Factors that can affect the condition of an antique include exposure to sunlight, humidity, and temperature changes.

2. How to identify and document any damage or repairs

When assessing the condition of your antiques, you need to identify any damage or repairs. This includes checking for cracks, chips, missing parts, and signs of restoration. 

It is essential to document any damage or repairs as this can affect the value of your antique.

3. The role of restoration and its effect on value

Restoration can have a significant impact on the value of an antique. A poorly executed restoration can significantly reduce the value of an antique, while a well-executed restoration can enhance its value. 

When considering restoration, it is essential to seek the advice of an expert to ensure that it is done correctly.

Understanding Market Trends and Demand

The market value of antiques can fluctuate based on trends and demand. Understanding market trends and demand is essential in determining the price of your antiques. 

Here are some key factors to consider:

1. The influence of supply and demand on antique prices

The price of antiques is affected by supply and demand. When there is a high demand for a particular type of antique and a limited supply, prices tend to increase. 

Conversely, when there is an oversupply of a particular type of antique, prices tend to decrease.

2. How to stay up-to-date on current trends and market demand

Staying up-to-date on current trends and market demand is essential in determining the value of your antiques. 

You can do this by following online auction sites, attending antique shows and exhibitions, and reading industry publications.

3. Factors that affect market fluctuations

Several factors can affect market fluctuations, including changes in fashion and taste, economic conditions, and political events. 

For example, a rise in interest rates or a recession can cause the demand for antiques to decrease, leading to a drop in prices.

Consultation with Experts

Consulting with experts is essential in determining the value of your antiques. 

Here are some key factors to consider when seeking the advice of an antique expert:

1. The benefits of seeking the advice of an antique expert

Antique experts have the knowledge and experience to accurately determine the value of your antiques. They can help you identify the type and origin of your antique, assess its condition, and determine its market value.

2. How to find a reputable appraiser or antique dealer

When seeking the advice of an antique expert, it is essential to find a reputable appraiser or antique dealer. You can do this by checking their credentials, reputation, and experience.

3. The value of multiple opinions and appraisals

Getting multiple opinions and appraisals from different experts can help you get a more accurate estimate of the value of your antiques. This can help you avoid the risk of getting a mispriced valuation.

Setting a Price for Your Antiques

Once you have done your research, assessed the condition of your antiques, understood market trends and demand, and consulted with experts, you can set a price for your antiques. 

Here are some key factors to consider when setting a price:

1. Combining the factors discussed to determine a fair price

To determine a fair price for your antiques, you need to consider all the factors discussed. 

Combining the research on the type, origin, and age of your antique, assessing its condition, understanding market trends and demand, and consulting with experts can help you determine a fair price.

2. How to negotiate and sell your antiques

When selling your antiques, it is essential to be prepared to negotiate with buyers. It is also important to consider the selling venue, such as online marketplaces, antique shops, or auction houses. 

Each venue has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to choose the one that best suits your needs.

3. Understanding the importance of setting realistic expectations and being flexible

Setting realistic expectations and being flexible is essential in determining the price of your antiques. It is important to remember that the value of antiques can fluctuate, and that it may take time to find the right buyer.

Therefore

Determining the price of your antiques requires careful research, assessment, and consultation with experts. 

By considering the type, origin, and age of your antique, assessing its condition, understanding market trends and demand, and seeking the advice of an antique expert, you can set a fair price for your antiques. 

It is important to remember to be realistic in your expectations and be flexible in your approach to selling your antiques. 

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you get the best value for your antiques.

Huge Antique Container Pot

Antique objects are windows into our past, providing us with a glimpse of how people lived their lives and what their beliefs, customs, and traditions were. 

As such, antique objects are valued not only for their monetary worth but also for their historical and cultural significance.

One such antique object is the antique Asian monumental spiral design pottery that an avid reader of this blog stumbled upon. 

This object is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also possesses a wealth of historical and cultural significance.

This blog post aims to explore the physical characteristics of the antique pot, its possible uses, and its value from both an antique collector's and a treasure hunter's perspective. 

Through this exploration, we hope to uncover the mysteries surrounding this antique object and shed light on its place in history.

Physical Characteristics of the Antique Pot

The antique pot in question is around 3 feet high, making it a large object. Its size alone makes it an impressive piece that would have stood out in its original setting. 

However, what truly sets this antique pot apart is its intricate design and craftsmanship.

The pot's spiral design, in particular, is noteworthy. The spirals are uniform and precise, indicating the skill of the artisan who crafted the pot. 

This level of skill would have been honed over years of practice and apprenticeship under a master artisan.

Aside from the spiral design, the pot also has other decorative elements. These include raised bumps and dots that have been carefully placed around the pot's surface. 

It is clear that the artisan who created this pot was dedicated to producing a beautiful object that would be appreciated by its owner and admired by others.

As for the pot's possible uses, the antique collector friends of the blog's author suggest that it was likely used as a container for water or food. 

However, they also mentioned that these kinds of pots were used to store the ashes of cremated individuals. 

This suggests that the pot was likely used in a funerary context and may have held great significance for the people who used it.

The Antique Collector's Perspective

Antique collectors are individuals who have a passion for preserving historical objects. 

They are well-versed in the history and significance of different objects and are often consulted for their expertise in determining an object's value.

When the blog's author asked their antique collector friends about the antique pot, they provided valuable insights into the object's historical and cultural significance.

One of the most important factors in determining the value of an antique object is its condition. 

According to the antique collector friends of the blog's author, the antique pot in question has been preserved nicely, which is a positive factor in its valuation.

Based on the pot's condition and the current market for antique objects, the antique collector friends estimated the pot's value to be around 2000 pesos

This price is subject to change depending on various factors such as the object's rarity, age, and historical significance.

Therefore

The antique Asian monumental spiral design pottery that the avid reader of this blog stumbled upon is an object that possesses both aesthetic and historical value. 


Its size and intricate design speak to the skill of the artisan who crafted it, while its possible uses provide insight into the culture and traditions of the people who used it.

From an antique collector's perspective, the pot's condition and rarity are important factors in determining its value. 

Meanwhile, the treasure hunter's perspective provides a different lens through which to view the pot's history and possible uses.

Regardless of whether one is an antique collector or a treasure hunter, both share a passion for preserving historical objects and uncovering their stories. 

By valuing and studying antique objects such as this antique pot, we can gain a better understanding of our past and the people who came before us.

Antique Silver Sterling Bar

The world of antique collecting can be a fascinating and rewarding pursuit for those with a passion for history and a love of material culture. 

One such example of an intriguing and mysterious antique is the silver bar in question. 

This small rectangular piece of metal has captured the attention of one avid reader and follower of this blog, who discovered it in a shop and was intrigued by its history and value. 


In this blog post, we will delve into the features of the silver bar, examine the debate over its authenticity, and explore its potential historical value.

The Silver Bar's Features

The silver bar is a small rectangular piece of metal, with markings and designs on both sides. 

On one side, there are inscribed characters that appear to be ancient, though their meaning is currently unknown. 

On the other side, there is a large cobra design that is both intricate and imposing. The cobra seems to be the centerpiece of the design, with other smaller markings and designs surrounding it.

The silver bar has a worn and aged appearance, suggesting that it has been around for many years. 

The metal itself appears to be tarnished and has a grayish hue, rather than the bright silver color that one might expect from a new piece of silver.

The markings on the silver bar are a mystery, and their significance is unknown. It is possible that they were intended to convey a message or provide information about the origin of the silver bar.

 Alternatively, they may have had a more symbolic or decorative purpose, serving to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bar.

The Debate over Authenticity

The debate over the authenticity of the silver bar is a contentious issue. The current owner of the bar claims that it is made of pure sterling silver, which would make it quite valuable. 

However, upon closer examination, the avid reader who discovered the bar noticed that it contained mixtures of lead, which would significantly lower its value. 

This observation has led to doubts about the authenticity of the bar and its value as an antique.

There is also the possibility that the silver bar is a scam

Some individuals in the antique collecting world will create counterfeit pieces that are designed to look like genuine antiques, in order to sell them for a higher price. 

This is a deceptive practice that can be difficult to detect, especially for those who are not experts in the field.

The Historical Value of the Silver Bar

Despite the debate over its authenticity, the silver bar may still hold historical value. It is possible that the bar was passed down from one powerful individual to another, as a symbol of status or wealth

The cobra design on one side of the bar may have had a specific meaning or significance in the culture or society in which it was created.

Decoding the inscribed characters on the silver bar could provide valuable insights into its history and origins. 

However, this is a complex and time-consuming process, requiring expertise in ancient languages and writing systems. 

It is possible that the inscriptions may be in a language or script that is no longer in use, adding another layer of difficulty to the decoding process.

Despite the challenges involved in uncovering the historical value of the silver bar, there is still much to be gained from studying and preserving it. 

Historical artifacts like the silver bar offer a unique glimpse into the past, providing valuable information about the cultures and societies that created them. 

They also serve as tangible reminders of our shared history, connecting us to the past in a meaningful way.

In conclusion, the silver bar in question is a fascinating and mysterious artifact that offers much to be explored and studied. 

While there is debate over its authenticity and value, there is still much to be gained from examining its features and history. 

The inscribed characters and cobra design provide tantalizing clues to its past, and the possibility that it was passed down as a symbol of status or wealth adds to its intrigue.

Ultimately, the value of the silver bar lies not just in its material worth, but in its historical significance. It is a tangible link to the past, offering insights into the cultures and societies that came before us. 

The challenge of decoding its inscriptions only adds to its appeal, making it a worthy subject of study for those interested in history, archaeology, and linguistics.

As the world of antique collecting continues to evolve, it is important to preserve and study these artifacts for future generations. 

The silver bar may be just one small piece of metal, but it has the potential to offer valuable insights into the past and connect us to our shared history in a meaningful way.

The silver bar is an intriguing and mysterious object that offers much to be studied and explored. 

Its features, markings, and potential historical value make it a worthy subject of inquiry for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or material culture

While its authenticity may be a matter of debate, its significance as a tangible link to the past is unquestionable. 

As we continue to explore the world of antiques and material culture, the preservation and study of artifacts like the silver bar will remain an important task for future generations.

AYALA INCORPORADA DESTILERIAS Old Green Bottle

The Philippines is known for its rich history and diverse culture. As a former colony of Spain and the United States, the country has been shaped by various influences over the centuries. 

One of the notable relics of the past is the Old Manila Gin Bottle, also known as "Cuatro Cantos."

 

This vintage bottle from the early 1900s has become a popular item among collectors and treasure hunters alike, as it represents a bygone era in the Philippines.

The Old Manila Gin Bottle is distinguished by its green color and the marking "AYALA INCORPORADA DESTILERIAS" on its upper portion. 

This bottle was produced during the early days of Manila or what is commonly known as the "Old Manila." 

The city was the center of commerce and trade in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period, which lasted for over three centuries. 

The bottle's unique design and historical significance have made it a highly sought-after item among collectors and history enthusiasts.

In this blog post, we will explore the history and value of the Old Manila Gin Bottle. We will also discuss its potential use as a marker for hidden treasures during World War II.

Historical Context of the Old Manila Gin Bottles

The Old Manila Gin Bottles, or "Cuatro Cantos," were produced in the early 1900s by the Ayala Corporation's Destilerias y Licorerias de Filipinas

The company was one of the largest distilleries in the Philippines and produced various alcoholic beverages such as gin, rum, and brandy. 

The Cuatro Cantos bottle was a popular design during that time, known for its four-sided shape and embossed markings.

The bottle's green color was achieved through the use of manganese dioxide, a substance commonly used in glassmaking during the 19th century. 

The green glass was popular among bottle manufacturers because it hid impurities in the glass and made the product appear more attractive to buyers. 

The green color also helped to protect the contents of the bottle from sunlight, which could affect the quality of the alcohol.

The Old Manila Gin Bottle's historical significance stems from its production during the early days of Manila. The city was founded in 1571 by the Spanish conquistador, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi

It was named after the Spanish city of Manila and became the capital of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. 

Manila served as the center of trade and commerce in the country, with many foreign merchants and traders visiting the city to conduct business.

During the American occupation of the Philippines, which began in 1898, Manila underwent significant changes. 

The city was modernized with the construction of new buildings and infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and railways. 

The American influence also introduced new products and technologies to the country, including glass manufacturing. 

The Old Manila Gin Bottle was produced during this period of transition, and its design reflects the influences of both Spanish and American cultures.

Valuation of the Old Manila Gin Bottle

The value of antique bottles such as the Old Manila Gin Bottle is determined by several factors, including rarity, condition, age, and historical significance. 

Rarity is a crucial factor in determining the value of an antique bottle. The Old Manila Gin Bottle is considered rare because it was produced in limited quantities during a specific period. 

The bottle's design and unique marking make it highly sought after among collectors.

Condition is another important factor in determining the value of an antique bottle. The Old Manila Gin Bottle is often found in various conditions, from excellent to poor. 

Bottles that are in excellent condition, with no chips or cracks, and with their original labels intact, command the highest prices. Bottles that have been damaged or have missing labels are worth less.

Age is also a significant factor in determining the value of an antique bottle. 

The Old Manila Gin Bottle, which was produced around the 1900s, is over a century old and is considered a valuable antique. Its age adds to its historical significance and makes it a desirable item for collectors.

The Old Manila Gin Bottle's historical significance also contributes to its value. The bottle represents a bygone era in the Philippines and serves as a reminder of the country's colonial past. 

Its unique marking, "AYALA INCORPORADA DESTILERIAS," reflects the influence of Spanish and American cultures in the Philippines. 

As such, the bottle has become a popular item among history enthusiasts and collectors.

According to a collector interviewed for this blog post, the current value of the Old Manila Gin Bottle is around 2000 pesos (approximately 40 USD) per bottle. 

However, the value of antique bottles can fluctuate depending on various factors such as supply and demand, economic conditions, and the preferences of collectors.

The Old Manila Gin Bottle as a Marker for Hidden Treasures

During World War II, the Japanese Imperial Army (JIA) invaded the Philippines, and the country became a battlefield for the Allied and Axis powers. 

The JIA looted various treasures, including gold, silver, and other valuable items, and hid them in various locations throughout the country. 

These treasures are collectively known as the "Yamashita treasures," named after General Tomoyuki Yamashita, who was in charge of the JIA's operations in the Philippines.

There have been many stories and rumors about the whereabouts of the Yamashita treasures, and treasure hunters have been searching for them for decades. 

One theory is that the JIA used the Old Manila Gin Bottle as a marker for their hidden treasures.

The theory is based on the fact that the JIA enjoyed drinking Old Manila Gin during their occupation of the Philippines. 

The bottles were readily available in the country, and the JIA may have used them to mark the locations of their hidden treasures. 

According to some treasure hunters, they have found Old Manila Gin Bottles near suspected Yamashita treasure sites, suggesting that the theory may have some merit.

However, it is important to note that there is no concrete evidence to support the theory. 

It is possible that the Old Manila Gin Bottles found near suspected treasure sites are simply coincidental, and the JIA did not use them as markers for their hidden treasures. 

The theory remains a subject of speculation and debate among treasure hunters and historians.

The Old Manila Gin Bottle, also known as "Cuatro Cantos," is a valuable antique that represents a bygone era in the Philippines. 

Its unique design and historical significance make it a highly sought-after item among collectors and history enthusiasts. 

The bottle's value is determined by several factors, including rarity, condition, age, and historical significance. 

Its current value is around 2000 pesos per bottle, although this can fluctuate depending on various factors.

The Old Manila Gin Bottle's association with the JIA and the Yamashita treasures adds to its intrigue and mystique. 

While there is no concrete evidence to support the theory that the JIA used the bottle as a marker for their hidden treasures, the theory remains a subject of speculation and debate among treasure hunters and historians. 

The bottle serves as a reminder of the Philippines' colonial past and the country's resilience in the face of adversity. Its value and significance will continue to endure for generations to come.

Antique CROSS Golden Pen

Treasure hunting is an exciting activity that attracts adventure seekers and antique collectors. It involves the search for hidden treasures, artifacts, and valuable objects that have significant historical and cultural value. 

One such treasure that was recently discovered is a vintage CROSS golden pen. This pen is a special kind due to its elegant design and the red marking on its storage box that reads "CROSS Since 1846".

The discovery of this vintage CROSS golden pen has piqued the interest of antique collectors and history enthusiasts worldwide. 

In this post, we will delve into the history of the CROSS company, the possible origin of the golden pen during WW2, and the value of this vintage CROSS golden pen.

The History of CROSS Pens

CROSS is a company that specializes in pen manufacturing. It was founded by Richard Cross in 1846 in Providence, Rhode Island, USA. 


Initially, the company produced gold and silver casings for pencils and pens. However, in 1858, they shifted their focus to pen manufacturing. 

The company produced its first fountain pen in 1930, which was a breakthrough in pen technology at the time. 

CROSS continued to innovate and produce high-quality pens that were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

The company's pens were used by US presidents, including Franklin D. Roosevelt and Barack Obama. In 1949, CROSS produced the Century pen, which was the first ballpoint pen to be marketed in the US. 

The Century pen was a commercial success and put CROSS on the map as a pen manufacturer.

One of the unique aspects of CROSS pens is their limited edition and special pens. These pens are designed with special materials and are produced in limited quantities, making them rare and valuable.

The company uses real gold, silver, and diamonds in the production of these pens. 

CROSS has also collaborated with various artists, designers, and companies to produce exclusive pens that are highly sought after by collectors.

The Antiquity of the Golden Pen

The vintage CROSS golden pen was likely produced during WW2. During this time, CROSS produced pens for the US government, including the military. 

The pen's elegant design suggests that it was a limited edition or special pen produced by CROSS. 

The red marking on the storage box that reads "CROSS Since 1846" indicates that the pen was produced after 1846, which is the year CROSS was founded. 

The marking also suggests that the pen was produced by CROSS, a reputable pen manufacturer known for producing high-quality pens.

It is likely that the vintage CROSS golden pen was owned by an American soldier during WW2. The pen's design and quality indicate that it belonged to someone of importance or high rank. 

However, it is also possible that the pen was confiscated by a Japanese soldier from an American soldier. 

The Japanese Imperial Army (JIA) was known for confiscating valuable objects from their enemies and even civilians during WW2. 

This explains why some objects found in JIA tunnels do not belong to them but were used as markers to their hidden treasures.

The vintage CROSS golden pen is a rare and valuable find. Its connection to WW2 and its possible origin from an American soldier make it even more significant. 

The pen's design and quality suggest that it was produced by CROSS as a limited edition or special pen.

The Value of the Vintage CROSS Golden Pen

The vintage CROSS golden pen is a valuable object due to its rarity and historical significance. If the owner of the pen decides to sell it, it could fetch a high price in the market. 


The value of the pen depends on several factors, including its condition, age, rarity, and historical significance.

According to CROSS, their limited edition and special pens are designed with real gold plating, which increases their value. 

The vintage CROSS golden pen is likely one of these pens, which means it could have significant value in the antique market. 

However, determining the exact value of the pen would require a professional appraisal from a reputable antique dealer or appraiser.

Apart from the pen's rarity and historical significance, its condition is also a crucial factor in determining its value. 


If the pen is in excellent condition, it could command a higher price compared to a pen with signs of wear and tear. The condition of the storage box is also important as it adds to the overall value of the pen.

The age of the pen is another factor that affects its value. The vintage CROSS golden pen is likely over 70 years old, which makes it a rare find. 

The pen's age adds to its historical significance and could increase its value in the antique market.

The provenance of the pen is also essential in determining its value. If the pen has a documented history of ownership and use, it adds to its value. 

Knowing the pen's previous owners and how it came to be in its current state can provide valuable insight into its history and significance.

Finally, the demand for the pen in the antique market is also a significant factor in determining its value. 

If there is a high demand for vintage pens or CROSS pens specifically, it could increase the pen's value. However, if the demand is low, the pen's value could be lower than expected.

In conclusion, the vintage CROSS golden pen is a rare and valuable find with significant historical significance. 

Its connection to WW2 and the possibility that it belonged to an American soldier make it a unique and intriguing object. 

The pen's design, quality, age, and rarity all contribute to its value, and a professional appraisal would be required to determine its exact worth. 

If the owner decides to sell it, the pen could fetch a high price in the antique market, making it a valuable investment for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Antique Japanese Urn with Small Diamonds

Treasure hunting has always been an exciting and rewarding activity for those who are passionate about discovering hidden treasures from the past. 

One such treasure hunter recently contacted me with an interesting antique object that belonged to the Japanese Imperial Army. 

The object appears to be valuable, and the treasure hunter sought my opinion on whether it has monetary value or not. 

In this post, we will cover the details of this antique object, its discovery, and the treasure hunting plans that will follow.

Description of the Antique Object

The antique object is an urn with Japanese characters inscribed on its body. The urn is made of brass, and some of its parts are starting to rust due to aging. 

The top portion of the object has small-sized diamonds that appear to be embedded in the brass. These diamonds could potentially increase the object's value significantly if they are genuine. 

The object's inscription reveals that it was used to contain the ashes of a highly respected person. The Japanese characters are of great significance in understanding the object's history and value.

Discovery of the Antique Object

According to the treasure hunter, the antique object was found inserted inside the body of an old tree. 

This has led the treasure hunter to speculate that the object is a Yamashita treasure marker left behind by the JIA

The JIA, or the Japanese Imperial Army, was known to bury treasures across various locations in the Philippines during World War II

These treasures are said to be worth billions of dollars, and treasure hunters continue to search for them to this day. 

The discovery of the antique object is a strong confirmation that the site is positive with hidden treasure deposits.

Exploration of the Site

Based on the discovery of the antique object, the treasure hunter plans to thoroughly explore the site and look for additional markers. 

The old tree where the antique urn was found is a good spot to dig for buried treasure. 

The treasure hunter plans to follow the 5 feet depth rule, which means that the spot will be dug down to 5 feet, and any possible buried markers will be uncovered. 

If a buried marker is found, the treasure hunter plans to continue digging to a much deeper depth to uncover any treasures buried underneath.

In conclusion, the discovery of an antique object that belonged to the Japanese Imperial Army is an exciting find for any treasure hunter. 

The object's significance lies not only in its potential monetary value but also in its historical importance. 

The Japanese characters inscribed on the urn provide clues about its history and add to the mystery surrounding its discovery. 

The treasure hunter's plans to explore the site thoroughly and uncover any possible buried markers will undoubtedly be a thrilling adventure. 

Whether or not the treasure hunter uncovers any buried treasures, the discovery of the antique object is a testament to the excitement and rewards of treasure hunting.