Antique Maps

You like antique maps.

Did you know about these? There are hundreds of thousands of antique maps floating around out there, in the hands of collectors, investors and regular schmoes. Incredibly, they're not usually that expensive. Okay, if you think of them as old pieces of stained paper, yes, they're expensive. But if you think of them as art, they're a steal. Larger maps from the 19th century can be had for as little as $100 - or even less - while miniature maps from the 18th or even 17th centuries start at less than $200. This site - http://www.maphistory.info/ - is a decent place to start (use the links on the left-side of the home page).

You're probably thinking, "Who gives a shit?" That's because you have your head up your ass. History is cool, therefore owning a piece of history is also cool. And just think: once you own an antique map, you can go to the place detailed on it, and insist on using the old, inaccurate map when you ask for directions from locals: "But look, the map says the coastline should be RIGHT HERE!"