By Crystal Warner
Karl and Amy Lagler had unfaltering faith they would reestablish their antique and coin business in downtown Ann Arbor. Their reward, the reopening of Antelope Antiques & Coins in May. They celebrated that anniversary in their new location.
Karl and Amy established the store in downtown Ann Arbor in 1996. They closed that location in 2000 and began operating, primarily, from area antique malls. “The best part about reopening our store is we are finally stationary.” Amy explains, “Moving antiques is extremely tedious work. Everything is delicate and has to be wrapped and packed very carefully. It’s so nice now, having a permanent space to display our merchandise.”
“Finding a viable location for the new store was our biggest challenge,” Amy says, “We knew we wanted to be back downtown. Our previous location was just around the corner, on Fourth Street. We absolutely loved the activity and the energy of working downtown so, as we were developing ideas for reopening the store, Karl and I knew for certain we would return to the area.”
The store’s inventory provides the customer with an eclectic and fascinating journey into the past. “We offer everything from pottery, to glassware; jewelry to military uniforms. We have thousands of reference books and lots of local memorabilia. We currently have the largest collection of U of M memorabilia in the world!” Karl explains.
Antelope Antiques & Coins diverse stock lends to its quaint appeal. Amy says, “We are a general antique store, which is rare. We are not specialized or high-end antique dealers; we have a wide variety of merchandise.” Their collection of Czechoslovakian pottery and art glass includes hundreds of ornate and unusual collectable pieces.
Many of the items for sale at Antelope Antiques & Coins and via the website are acquired through estate liquidations. Karl and Amy offer appraisal services and purchase single items or estates in their entirety. They assist with organization of estate sales and offer auction services. Individuals are welcome to bring coins, stamps, antiques and collectables to the store for appraisal; Antelope Antiques & Coins pays cash for desired items.
Karl and Amy have been married for more than 18 years; their mutual appreciation for collectables and all things nostalgic is the connection to their friendship. Their shared passion for acquiring unique antiques is expressed through their extensive inventory. Each contributes their expertise in procuring items for retail; both are educated and very experienced in identifying pieces of historical significance. Together, Karl and Amy have accumulated an impressive collection of extraordinary objects, mementos and treasures of times past. With over 30 years of experience in coin and stamp appraisal, Karl has retained a massive amount of knowledge. Currently, he is one of the only appraiser’s of antiques, rare coins and stamps in southeast Michigan. Like her husband, Amy has always been passionate about collectables. Amy says, “Karl started collecting coins at around the age of five. For me, it was comic books.” Immersed in their element, Antelope Antiques & Coins provides a constant source of enlightenment and discovery for the Laglers.
Antelope Antiques & Coins
Karl and Amy Lagler
255 E. Liberty
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Phone: 734-663-2828
Website: www.antelopeantiques.com