Antique dealer

Career path and progression

You could progress to become a specialist dealer, valuer or auctioneer.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• the ability to sell products and services
• persuading and negotiating skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• business management skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

Related subjects

Most relevant

• History - Antique dealers need a deep understanding of different historical periods to identify, date, and authenticate objects. Knowing about social, economic, and cultural history helps them understand why certain items were made, who used them, and what makes them valuable.
• Art and Design - Antique dealers regularly handle paintings, ceramics, furniture, and decorative objects, so they need to recognise different artistic styles, techniques, and materials. Understanding art history and design movements helps them spot genuine pieces and assess their quality and condition.
• Business - Antique dealers run their own businesses or manage shops and stalls, so they need to handle finances, pricing, stock management, and marketing. Understanding profit margins, cash flow, and how markets work is essential when deciding what to buy and how much to charge.

Also relevant

• Economics - Antique dealers operate in a market where prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, and trends in collecting. Understanding how markets work and what drives changes in value helps them make smart buying and selling decisions.
• English Language - Antique dealers write detailed descriptions of items for catalogues, online listings, and valuations. They also need strong verbal communication skills for negotiating with buyers and sellers and explaining the history and significance of objects to customers.
• Design and Technology - Antique dealers often carry out minor restoration work on furniture, metalwork, and other objects. Understanding materials, construction methods, and craftsmanship helps them assess the condition of items and recognise quality workmanship from different eras.
• Chemistry - Antique dealers benefit from understanding how different materials – such as metals, ceramics, textiles, and paints – age, corrode, or deteriorate over time. This knowledge helps them authenticate items and distinguish genuine antiques from reproductions or fakes.