Dominoes are often overlooked as mere game pieces, yet they represent a fascinating intersection of art, history, and engineering. For the beginner collector, stepping into the world of dominoes can feel overwhelming, but it is actually a deeply rewarding hobby that can start with just a few unique pieces. Collecting dominoes, often referred to as dominoaphily, is not just about accumulating sets; it is about finding sets with unique histories, materials, and artistic designs. Whether you are interested in antique bone-and-ebony pieces or modern, artistic sets, this guide will help you begin your collection with confidence.
Understand the Basics of a Domino SetBefore purchasing your first set, it is essential to understand what makes a complete set. The standard set used in many parts of the world is the “double-six,” which consists of 28 tiles. However, serious collectors often look for larger, more complex sets. The next common step up is the “double-nine” set (55 tiles), followed by “double-twelve” (91 tiles) and beyond. For a beginner, starting with a double-six set is often best because it is the most common in antique markets and allows you to learn the basic layout of pips (dots) and tiles. You should also familiarize yourself with the difference between “spinner” sets, which have a metal rivet in the center of each tile, and those without. Spinners are typically found on later, machine-made sets, while the lack of one often points to older, handcrafted items.
Identify Materials and Vintage ValueThe material of a domino set is a primary factor in its value and desirability. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, many sets were crafted from natural materials, most commonly bone or ivory, with ebony or other dark wood backs. These sets are highly prized because the two materials were joined by a delicate, hidden pin, showing incredible craftsmanship. If you find a set with a distinct, yellowish patina and faint, hair-like lines in the material, it is likely bone, often dubbed “ivory” by sellers but actually carved from cattle bone. Another fascinating material to look for is Bakelite, an early plastic from the 1920s-1940s that has a rich, dense feel and often comes in vibrant colors, unlike the plain black or white of traditional tiles. Modern sets are generally made from plastic or resin, which are durable but lack the historical charm and tactile experience of vintage materials.
Where to Begin Your Search for PiecesStarting a collection doesn’t require a large budget. The best places to find, for lack of a better word, “treasure” are local antique malls, thrift shops, and garage sales. Flea markets are another excellent venue because you can often negotiate prices. When browsing, don’t be afraid to ask to open the box. Many collectors have found incomplete or mis-matched sets that can be purchased for very little money, providing a great way to start practicing identifying materials. For those looking for specific eras or materials, online marketplaces like eBay or specialized auction sites are great resources, though they usually come with a higher price tag. Beginners should prioritize condition, looking for sets with minimal damage to the pips and, ideally, all pieces present, though mismatched, aged sets possess a rustic charm all their own.
Preserving and Displaying Your CollectionOnce you have acquired a few sets, preservation is key. Antique bone and wood sets need to be kept in a cool, dry place to prevent the wood from warping or the bone from turning brittle. If your sets come in their original boxes, this is a huge bonus, as collectors value the packaging as much as the pieces themselves. For displaying, shadow boxes work exceptionally well, allowing you to showcase the intricate carvings or, in some specialty sets, hand-painted designs on the pips. Alternatively, simply laying out a set on a felt-lined tray can create a striking display. As you learn to handle these items, you will find that the natural oils in your hands can actually help preserve the ivory or bone, while for modern plastic, a simple cleaning with a mild soap is sufficient.
Focus on Specific Collecting ThemesTo avoid collecting aimlessly, many enthusiasts find success by specializing in a specific type of domino. You might focus entirely on finding antique, hand-carved bone sets, or perhaps you want to collect only unique, themed sets, such as those with non-traditional, colorful, or geometric designs. Some collectors focus on the boxes, seeking out fancy, lacquered wooden cases or embossed, hinged containers from the Victorian era. Others may focus on novelty sets, such as miniature, travel-sized dominoes or those produced as advertising premiums by companies in the 1950s. Developing a niche makes the search more focused and rewarding, and it allows you to become an expert on a particular type of, again, “game piece.”
Beginning a domino collection is a journey into a surprisingly diverse world of historical craftsmanship and artistic design. By focusing on learning the materials, scouring unique venues, and defining your own, personal collecting theme, you can build a collection that is both valuable and personally rewarding. The charm of collecting lies in the thrill of the hunt, finding a beautiful, aged set tucked away in an overlooked box. With patience and a curious eye, you will soon find your shelves filled with these beautiful, tactile pieces of history, turning a simple hobby into a passion.
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