Mid-century modern, sometimes shortened to mid-century or 'mod,' describes antique furniture, lighting, artwork and home accessories from the 1950s, or the middle of the last century. Pieces like designer ashtrays, dinnerware, china, and even hubcaps have become collector's items from this period. Salt and pepper shakers, vases, humidors and floor ashtrays are also treasures to find. Basically, nearly every item that could have been found in a 1950s home is now considered mod or mid-century modern.

Popular designers of the time include Charles Eames, Eero Saarinen, Pierre Paulin, Arne Jacobsen and Alvar Alto. Although many of these artists are known for their furniture creations, they also produced wall art as well as other decorative and sculptural pieces of the time. Lighting, clocks and glasswork are coveted mid-century pieces as well, especially from designers like Nelson, Murano and Higgins.

Finding mid-century modern items isn't as hard as finding an ancient Italian drawing or medieval illuminated manuscript, but pieces can still be very rare and pricey--some large furniture pieces can sell for tens of thousands of dollars. Dishes and home accessories like lamps are fairly accessible, and can be found at antique stores, online websites, and auctions and estate sales. Estate sales usually have a lot of smaller items by lesser-known designers, with the more rare pieces usually kept in the family. However, great deals can often be had at these sales if the family doesn't share a taste for mid-century modern items.

Furniture from famous designers are the really sought-after pieces and can prove the toughest to find. Buying or bartering from other collectors can prove beneficial. Online auctions and websites can be good sources for pieces from popular furniture designers like Herman Miller, as well as live auctions held at major antique or auction houses.