Titanic market for ship souvenirs

Ocean liner memorabilia brings alive the more glamorous era, when the only way to travel the world was by ship and in style.

It is nostalgia from a bygone era and it is that which attracts the collectors.

At the beginning of the 20th Century, the giant luxury liners of the shipping companies such as Cunard, White Star Line and Canadian Pacific plied the transatlantic trade.

In general, collectors focus on the best known liners and their memorabilia command the highest prices.

Memorabilia from the lesser known companies or those that didn't travel the transatlantic route are usually less costly.

Notable ships include the Olympic, and the Mauritania, but by far the most desirable collectables come from the ill-fated Titanic.

The market for such memorabilia increased dramatically after the famous 1997 film.

Items owned or used by survivors or rescuers such as, watches, spoons, menus and plates generally realise the highest prices.

Postcards and photos are often the most reasonably priced items as they were produced in high quantities.

Handwritten cards are collected and value depends on the condition, the message and the sender.

Essential ocean liner memorabilia for any collector includes playing cards featuring the liner or company logo, timetables, especially those with period artwork, and menus, especially first class or a special occasion.

Other items of value are original fixtures and fittings, brochures and souvenirs.

Items taken from the ship as a memento tend to be more valuable.