Mid-century antiques are classified as pieces dating from the 1950s, the middle of the last century. Also known as mid-century modern, these authentic furniture items, lamps, artwork and other pieces have come back in fashion as both collector's items and as trendy additions for decorating. To purchase authentic pieces from this period, visit online auctions or retailers, antique stores, or even thrift shops and estate sales. Many items can be had at affordable prices compared to antiques of earlier centuries. They always say that trends come back around, and mid-century antiques are no exception. Most of the highly sought-after antiques from the 1950s are furniture pieces by manufacturers like Knoll and Heywood-Wakefield. Informal style and ease of care were the rule of the day--many chairs made during this time were fabricated from molded plastic that could easily be wiped clean. As well, the boxy upholstered couches and armchairs of this era were made with durable, easy-to-clean fabrics. Some of the most expensive items from this period can sell for $25,000 or more, and mostly include furniture like large buffets, china cabinets, dining and living room sets and beds. Charles Eames and Herman Miller are highly coveted furniture designers of the time. Their pieces will be among the most expensive and hardest to find. Accessories, art and lighting are popular mid-century pieces as well. The famous George Nelson clocks in eclectic starburst designs can go for thousands of dollars in the right market. Nelson is also known for eclectic lighting fixtures that are very popular as well. Artistic icons like Murano and Higgins created unusual glass pieces during this period that are a mid-century collector's dream find. | 
