While I have a pretty good idea of what a map is, I am not sure what qualifies as an “antique map”. I suppose the first question I need to ask is, “When is a map considered an antique map?” Art Source International has a nice little online beginner Collector’s Guide to collecting antique maps. It states that an antique map is any map more than 100 years old. It also mentions that prior to 1600AD, maps were produced using woodblock printing methods. Copper and steel engraving were used for the majority of antique maps we see today. By the 1800’s surface printing or lithography was the chosen method of map production and by the late 1800’s, modern printing methods began to take over, leading to a loss in the decorative qualities that appeal to many map collectors.

According to Mapforum, most map dealers deal in maps produced between the mid 15th and 19th Centuries. It is also noted that because some areas were not mapped in great detail until after this time period, some latitude is allowed amongst dealers.

Mapforum also notes that many antique maps will be from books, as they have had a much better survival rate, given that they were protected by being bound in books.

[tags]Antique Maps, Map Collecting[/tags]