There are several antique shops in the surrounding area. Some are better than others when it comes to the fare that piques my interest. But just recently, one has proven to be the source of some profitable 78’s for me.
Heading home from a doctor’s visit, I passed by the same antique shop that I had passed countless times before and occasionally popped in for a look around. This time though, something was different. I spotted “Records” which had just been added to the amateurishly hand painted sign above the awning.
Making a u-turn the next chance I got, I headed back just to see what they had. I wasn’t expecting much other than some Ray Conniff or various artists Christmas Lps…but one never knows, do one?
I opened the door to see a few boxes of generic 78 albums, but not to appear too anxious, I walked around navigating the labyrinth shaped by overpriced armoires and china hutches. I found a section of neatly stacked 78’s near the back but it consisted of common fare…Harry James, Spike Jones, Sammy Kayes and such.
Making my way back to the entrance, I opened the first of several albums that I had originally seen. Nothing caught my eye. Got to the last one and flipped it open to see a bright red OKeh. It was by the Arkansas Barefoot Boys. “Great name,” I thought to myself. The records that rounded out the album were by Fiddlin’ John Carson, Dykes’ Magic City Trio, McMichen’s Melody Men and Narmour & Smith. I wasn’t the least bit familiar with any of these except for the Carson record. I knew that old-time music had sold well for me in the past so I popped on the 5 dollar asking price. They did not disappoint by the time the auctions had ended. (Narmour & Smith has proven the most enjoyable auction sale I’ve ever had!)
A few months later, I tried my luck again and came out with a $1 purchase…a Jimmy Tarlton & Tom Darby on Montgomery Ward. A very unexpected auction ending…it became my second highest 78 auction to date.