International collectors bid on Oklahoma antiques

By Jeffrey Smith, for NEWS 9

BRISTOW, Okla. -- With a click of the mouse an auction house is bringing an international spotlight to an Oklahoma livestock yard.

But, instead of steers, collectors are snatching up precious antiques.

When Helen Johnston died, she left thousands of collectibles behind. To sell some of the items, her family decided to host an online auction.

"We have people all over the world who are bidding on these great pieces," said Skye Mcniel, Johnston's great-granddaughter. "This is the first time we've had an introduction to the online auction and man, that's amazing, there are people everywhere buying."

A company called Auction Network is streaming the three day event live. They've done auctions in Times Square and Hollywood.

"We've got one gentleman from Germany who has bought over 30 items," said Brad White with Auction Network. "We're broadcasting it live throughout the world. We have over 150 bidders online, actively bidding, and competing with everyone who is here live."

Thousands of collectibles are up for sale including glassware, stemware, furniture, jewelry, and even antique dolls. The auction has one simple rule.

"Open to anyone and everyone who has money," said White.

The auction ends on Sunday at the Mid-America Farm Center in Bristow.