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Where it's at
The Berlin Wall was raised on August 13th 1961 as a symbol
of Cold War Communism, a physical division between American,
British, French and Soviet sectors of the city. This divided
Berlin into a city split from East to West, with many families
divide on a brutal day of conflict. It stood as a concrete
reminder of the Great War and the post war politics of occupation
and domination. After the collapse of Communism, the wall
was torn down by the people of Berlin in 1989, the 100 mile
barbed wire barricade and 12ft concrete wall were broken into
a living gallery of small rocks of graffiti daubed concrete
which dispersed throughout the globe. Pieces of the wall are
now highly prized by collectors, with this symbol of oppression
scattered across mantelpieces all over the world.
Where to bag a bargain
The East Side Gallery in East Berlin is the longest
remaining stretch of the wall still preserved. It is covered
with murals and paintings created by artists from all over
the world. There is also a marquee of "authentic"
wall relics and memorabilia.
How To Spot A Good Buy
Beware of imitations! Not every spray paint daubed concrete
lump is the authentic article. Try to find out where the seller
acquired the piece as the pieces are relatively new in circulation,
especially if you are buying without viewing. If you buy from
Berlin be sure to check the colour match of the concrete against
the remaining sections of the wall.
What's It Worth?
The American market for Cold War memorabilia is phenomenal.
The Berlin Wall Commemorative Group supplies 6000lb
sections of the wall to Presidential Libraries, Museums, Universities
and private collectors at between $35,000 to $75,000 a throw.
These are increasing in value as no new supply will ever exist...
at least until the next revolution. |
