Candy wrappers

Q: I have several wrappers from some of the first M&M candies ever marketed. Where can I sell them? — Steve, Austin, Texas

A: Dave Archer is treasurer of the M&M Collector’s Club, 8814 Patricia Court, College Park, MD 20740. A second source is advanced collector Frederick Kraut, 120 Covington Drive, Warwick, RI 02886. Ken Clee is a dealer who specializes in anything related to Mars M&M candies. His address is P.O. Box 11412, Philadelphia, PA 19111.

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Q: In one of your previous columns, you recommended several books regarding United States coins. Unfortunately, I didn’t save the article and could use the information. I have several 50-cent pieces, and I am curious if they are worth more than mere face value. — Nelda, via e-mail

A: One of my favorite references is the hefty 31st edition of the Standard Catalogue of World Coins edited by Clifford Mishler and Chester L. Krause (Krause Publications, $54.99). This comprehensive guide references every coin from 1901 to the present, has illustrated instant-identifier charts, grading terminology and abbreviations, foreign exchange rates, a cross-reference country index, gold and silver bullion charts, and more than 48,000 full-size illustrations. Simply put, this is the granddaddy of all coin reference books and one of the better ones available.

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Q: I have a wood stove that was manufactured by Jewett & Root. It is the Wild Rose No. 9, with a patent date of 1866. Whom can I contact to find out more about it? — Cenia, via e-mail

A: One of your best sources might be the Antique Stove Association, 2617 Riverside, Houston, TX 77004. Although you must join to receive the newsletter and other membership benefits, it is worth the nominal fee.

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Q: I live near Boston and wonder if there is a paperweight collectors group in my area. — Cyndi, Fall River, Mass.

A: One of the more active groups is the New England Paperweight Collectors Association, P.O. Box 188, Shutesbury, MA 01072.