Perhaps it was the strong links to his homeland that inspired Dutchman Karl Hulsberggen to amass a significant collection of Gouda pottery after he migrated in 1951 to Melbourne.

Or it could have been his passion for antique furniture, gold, diamonds jewellery, stamps and general collectables that led in the early 1970s to him establishing a second-hand dealership – first in Oakleigh, then later Burwood and East Kew before he finally decided in his late 60s that it was time to call it a day.

Melbourne-based Leski Auctions director Charles Leski is rubbing his hands with glee at the number of star banknotes he has on offer at his forthcoming Coins, Banknotes and Stamps auction from 10am Thursday February 16 at 727-729 High Street, Armadale.

“Auction houses are lucky to see one a year,” he said. “Two or three is a big number and we have eight in the one auction (lots 433-440).”

Star notes are replacement banknotes – issued once a damaged note has been withdrawn from service.

Three timed online auctions on the same day is Melbourne-based Christian McCann Auctions way of greeting the 2023 New Year – with the first, devoted to decorative arts and antiques, closing from 3pm at 7 Harper Street, Abbotsford – and the next two, important art and Asian furniture and porcelain, respectively from 4pm and 5pm.

The decorative arts and antiques sale has 159 lots to go under the hammer, most of which are readily affordable even to first time auction goers and would make an attractive adornment to any home.

Melbourne-based Philips Auctions Christmas timed online decorative arts auction, which ends from 9am Monday December 12 at 47 Glenferrie Road, Malvern has some interesting knick-knacks that could make ideal festive season gifts.

One is a particularly eye-catching mid-19^th century tilt-top circular table with inlaid multi wood veneers (lot 511) that has a catalogue estimate of $1500-$2500.