Halloween collectibles, classic movie monsters, Oktoberfest celebrations, and Día de los Muertos bring a spirited mix of history and collecting to our October issue.
Antique Trader Staff
Updated Sep 30, 2026 8:42 AM PDT
October has arrived, and the latest issue of Kovels Antique Trader is getting into the spirit of the season with a little “Monster Mash.” From vintage Halloween decorations and classic movie monsters to Oktoberfest celebrations and the traditions of Día de los Muertos, this month’s stories explore the history behind some familiar autumn favorites.
Our feature, “Monster Smash,” celebrates the unforgettable artwork of Basil Gogos, whose colorful portraits for Famous Monsters of Filmland helped define the appearance of classic horror icons for generations of fans. Frankenstein’s monster, Dracula, and their fellow creatures remain fixtures of popular culture, and the artwork associated with them has become collectible in its own right.
Pamela Wiggins Siegel brings a little feline magic to the season with “Charming Black Cats for Halloween.” Exploring the folklore surrounding these mysterious creatures, she introduces readers to collectible black cat brooches, including vintage costume jewelry by familiar makers.
October isn’t all about ghosts and goblins. “Dust Off the Lederhosen and Dirndls” explores Oktoberfest celebrations across the United States, while our Sales Reports keep the seasonal spirit going with collectible beer steins, antique jack-o’-lanterns, Dennison party decorations, and other vintage Halloween treasures that recently crossed the auction block.
The issue also explores Día de los Muertos, the Mexican tradition honoring loved ones who have died. In her Editor’s Note, “And Then I Was There,” Kele Johnson recalls a visit to Teotihuacán and Mexico City’s National Museum of Anthropology, reflecting on the ancient cultures whose beliefs helped shape her understanding of remembrance and the objects people leave behind.
Elsewhere, “Relics & Roots” examines the preservation of Jewish history through Judaica, while Elizabeth Burroughs Heineman explores the artistry and symbolism of chrysanthemums in East Asian porcelain in “Beyond the Block.” Readers will also find an interview exploring the creation of a Chicago antiques institution.
Whether your October traditions involve carving pumpkins, celebrating Oktoberfest, or remembering those who came before us, there’s plenty to discover in the October issue of Kovels Antique Trader.
Basil GogosHalloween collectiblesKovels Antique TraderOctober 2026Oktoberfestvintage Halloween decorations
Antique Trader StaffAuthor
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