Selling Collectibles?

[Irulan]

Do not sell that china, Aggie, unless you feel it's really ugly. We didn't get china from anyone for anything, and after I had been married a couple of years, I wanted some for holidays, etc. So we bought some very pretty and cheap china, mail order (before the web). But, now, after 30 years, the silver-ish rim is peeling off. I use it 4-6 times a year and I am glad I have it.
I keep thinking about the setting for 12 Rosenthal china my mom had and wondering where it is... although I know in my heart it was sold after she died to pay bills. I would have gladly paid my dad for it, as it was beautiful and classic and I am pretty sure nothing would be peeling.

I disagree. While some heirloom china might be worth keeping if you WANT it for entertaining, if a person feels bogged down by it, or that it takes up too much room, or they never use it, or it's dated and/or ugly....by all means get rid of it. Maybe it has emotional value, maybe it doesn't. Me, I hate hanging onto stuff that serves no current purpose and doesn't have emotional value. I gave away my silver to my sister because in 20 years I never use it, and she entertains. She also has the other half of the service. so now she has service for 12... and I don't have to store it, or clean it, or insure it.