The largest collection of ashtrays consists of 1,560 unique items and belongs to Yang Li (Australia). The collection was verified in Victoria, Australia, on 10 October 2014.Yang started his collection 26 years ago. His first ashtray, a white porcelain ashtray depicting a tire, was given to him back when he was working as a TV director in China. After extensive travelling (and collecting), Yang arrived in Australia in 1992 with a suitcase full of ashtrays and hopes of starting a new life. When asked about his collection, Yang states "each one is filled with an essence that captures a connection to a memory that fills my mind and heart." He will continue to "collect, store, evaluate and appreciate" his collection well into the future.