We've brought you some great news from various collectibles niches in recent weeks, including that Christie's total art sales from 2011 saw a 14% improvement on 2010.
But how about the classic cars markets? Well, a good barometer of how classic automobiles are doing is the top US auctioneer Barrett-Jackson.
The Scottsdale, Arizona-based firm has announced that it recently generated more than $92m in gross sales of rare and high-end collectible classic cars.
The total was achieved during its 41st annual Arizona auction at West World of Scottsdale, last month (January 15-22). The auction set various new World Record totals before an energised 27,000-strong crowd of collectors and enthusiasts.
 Rare and revered: the 1948 Tucker Torpedo |
According to Barrett-Jackson, its 2012 total saw a 32% increase in sales and a 16% increase in attendance over its 2011 event.
Classic cars that proved irresistible to collectors included this 1948 Tucker Torpedo. The car is formerly of the famous Ron Pratte Collection and is also very rare, being one of only 51 ever made.
In the end, the 1948 Tucker Torpedo emerged as the auction's top selling vehicle when it brought $2.915m. The result was a World Record price for the sale of a Tucker.
Other star classic cars at the event included a 1947 Bentley Mark VI with coachworks by Franay. It sold for $2.75m.
These sales show that the global classic car markets are in fine health. Expect to see many more results of this calibre in 2012.
 This 1947 Bentley Mark VI with coachworks by Franay |
Barrett-Jackson's $2m-plus Tucker Torpedo and Bentley Mark VI sales are, of course, great news.
But what if you're on the lookout for a classic car but: a) aren't a multi-millionaire; or b) want to avoid auction room competition and spiralling bids?
Well, the good news is that we have a number of classic cars for sale, here at Paul Fraser Collectibles. These include a 1973 Ferrari Dino GT Targa Coupe and very rare 1959 Bocar XP5 Race car.
Click here to view our rare classic cars for sale.
