American Pickers Season 23 Episode 16 Flea Market Junkie

In American Pickers season 23 episode 16, titled "Flea Market Junkie," viewers are taken on a journey through the world of flea markets and vintage shopping. Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, the stars of the popular reality series, are on the hunt for unique and valuable items that they can add to their collection, and they know that flea markets are a treasure trove of hidden gems.

The episode begins with Mike and Frank arriving at a large outdoor market in rural Illinois. They are immediately struck by the sheer size of the place, which is packed with vendors selling everything from vintage toys to antique silverware. The pair split up to cover more ground, with Mike heading off to one area of the market while Frank checks out another.

Almost immediately, Mike spots a collection of old school lockers that catch his eye. He strikes up a conversation with the vendor, who tells him that the lockers came from a nearby elementary school that was torn down in the 1970s. Mike is intrigued by the lockers' vintage look and decides to make an offer. The vendor accepts, and Mike is thrilled to add the lockers to his collection.

Meanwhile, Frank has stumbled upon a vendor selling old gas pumps and advertising signs. Frank is a sucker for vintage advertising, and he quickly realizes that the vendor has some rare pieces. He strikes up a conversation and learns that the vendor has been collecting vintage signs and pumps for over 30 years. Frank can hardly contain his excitement as he sifts through the collection and makes some great finds.

After a few hours of shopping, Mike and Frank reconvene to compare their hauls. They are both thrilled with what they've found and decide to call it a day. But as they're packing up their purchases, they overhear another vendor talking about an estate sale happening just a few miles away. Always eager for a new adventure, Mike and Frank decide to check it out.

When they arrive at the estate sale, they are immediately struck by the quality and quantity of the items for sale. There are dozens of boxes filled with vintage clothing, stacks of old records, and even a few antique motorcycles. Mike and Frank dive in, picking through the items and finding some amazing pieces.

As they're perusing the vintage clothing, Mike spots a small box sitting on a table. He picks it up and flips the lid open, revealing an old pocket watch. He examines it closely, noting the intricate details and careful craftsmanship. The vendor tells him that the watch belonged to her grandfather, who worked as a train conductor in the early 1900s. Mike is fascinated by the story and decides to make an offer.

As the sun begins to set, Mike and Frank load up their purchases into their van and head back to their base to take stock of their finds. They are both thrilled with what they've discovered and can't wait to add their new treasures to their collection.

"Flea Market Junkie" is a fun and fascinating episode that takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes look at the world of flea markets and vintage shopping. With plenty of unique and valuable finds, it's a must-watch for fans of American Pickers and vintage culture.