At this time of year, collectors’ minds turn to special anniversaries that fall in the coming 12 months that might help boost a particular field of interest – and prices. So, what have we got to look forward to in 2025?
To start with, January 8 would have been the 90th birthday of Elvis Presley, one of the most sought-after figures in the history of music when it comes to collectables. It’s amazing to think that Elvis, who died in August 1977 at the age of 42, has now been dead for longer than he lived.
Just under a month later, on February 6, would have been the 80th birthday of the king of Reggae, Bob Marley, who succumbed to cancer aged just 36 in 1981.
Will there be a boost to items relating to Winston Churchill, who died 60 years ago on January 24? And what about a retrospective for the wonderful March Chagall, who passed on March 28, 1985, 40 years ago, aged 97? Pilgrims still visit his grave in the beautiful town of St Paul de Vence to lay a stone on his tomb.
March 27 is also a day to remember: 400 years since the death of King James I and the accession of King Charles I to the throne.
While Hitler and Pol Pot both have significant anniversaries, they are unlikely to troubles the rostrum, but December 16 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen, surely a cause for celebration, special events and maybe even a reappearance at auction of rare first editions.
Making his first appearance eight months before Austen on April 23, and so also celebrating a 250th birthday, will be the man who is arguably England’s pre-eminent artist, J.M.W. Turner.
On the sporting front, 2025 will be 50 years since the inaugural Cricket World Cup, which began in the UK on June 7, 1975.
Hollywood is always a rich source for collectors, so expect to see raised interest in all things Spielberg as Jaws marks its 50th year. And can you believe that the Disney classic Lady and The Tramp will turn 70?
For me, the most important anniversary to look out for falls on September 27: 200 years since the first service of locomotive-hauled passenger trains opened between Stockton and Darlington – an innovation that changed the world. Few enthusiasts are as dedicated to their field as those interested in trains. Look out for Hornby, Bassett-Lowke, Märklin and the rest at auction when autumn comes.
