In an update to the article we posted here, the Consumer Product Safety Commission posted the following small business guidance on 2/10/09:
http://cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/smbus/sbguide.pdf

Question 17: Can I sell vintage children’s books and other children’s products that are collectibles?
Yes. Used vintage children’s books and other children’s products sold as collector’s items would not be primarily intended for children. Because of their value and age, they would not be expected to be used by children. Therefore, they do not fall into the definition of children’s product and do not need to comply with the lead limits.

Sound great, right? The loophole we were looking for. Just one problem. That guide is not a part of the law, wasn’t written by the CPSC staff and also comes with this disclaimer:

This information was prepared by CPSC staff, has not been reviewed or approved by, and many not necessarily reflect the views of, the Commission. It may be subject to change based on Commission action.

So, basically, this doesn’t actually help us at all.