Legendary Canadian Picker Wayne Learie Retires, Auctioning 60 Years of Rare Collectibles
After six decades in the antique business, renowned Canadian picker Wayne Learie is retiring and auctioning his personal collection through DirectAuctions.Com, representing a significant moment for collectors with rare historical artifacts and memorabilia going to market.
After more than 60 years of professional picking, Wayne Learie has decided to retire and will auction his extensive personal and store collection through DirectAuctions.Com. The auction represents the culmination of a career that established Learie as a trusted name among collectors and antique enthusiasts across Canada and internationally.
Learie, known to many as The Mad Picker, built his reputation by uncovering hidden gems in basements, backyard sheds, and estates, developing a sharp eye for the rare, unusual, and extraordinary. Over his remarkable career, he has bought and sold everything from Led Zeppelin's robe to rare gas pumps and vintage signs, building large collections for investors and working with high-end antiques and collectibles.
The upcoming auction features more than 2,000 rare and collectible pieces, with standout items including a 1938 historically significant local carving depicting Chief August Jack Khatsahlano of the Squamish Nation. The carving represents a piece of West Coast history, featuring a leader instrumental in preserving Squamish Nation oral history and collaborating with Vancouver's first settlers. Chief Khatsahlano is featured in the book Conversations with Khahtsahlano 1932-1952 by J.S Matthews, an early Vancouver City Archivist.
Other notable pieces in the collection include highly collectible early Canadian Addison radios from the 1950s, an original "Girl on the Beach" Coca-Cola sign in mint condition, a fully restored Austin children's pedal car, and a signed Tiffany table lamp and candle holder. Collectors will also find a selection of Hardy fishing reels and rods from the 1920s and '30s, rare Canadiana furniture, a large collection of carved Chinese jade, fine jewelry, sterling silver, and Indigenous art.
Additional treasures include vintage display showcases, military swords and badges sourced from estates worldwide, and beautifully restored Seeburg and Wurlitzer jukeboxes. Industry experts consider this to be the most significant auction event held in the Fraser Valley in the past 25 years, representing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors, dealers, and enthusiasts.
Jeff Schwarz, owner of https://www.directauctions.com and known as "The Liquidator" from television, expressed excitement about the collaboration. "It's been an honor and a privilege to work with Wayne over the years," Schwarz said. "We're thrilled to present such a unique collection that rarely, if ever, comes up for auction. Acquiring The Mad Picker and collaborating with Wayne allows us to further expand into the estate and collectibles market."
The auction will take place live online over two days, with both Schwarz and Learie hosting and calling the auction. The event will be streamed worldwide, allowing collectors everywhere to participate in this historic sale. Interested parties can view the auction and register at https://bid.directauctions.com/Wayne-Learie-s-Incredible-Antique-Store-Personal-Collection-Auction_a74880?m=all. The sale marks not only the end of an era for one of Canada's most respected pickers but also a significant expansion opportunity for DirectAuctions.Com in the growing estate and collectibles market.