Key-wound tank could be a prize find
Dear Collector,
The enclosed photo is of a key-wound tank complete with rat-a-tat machine gun and gunner. The only clue to its manufacture is a “Pat’s Pend’g, Mar Toys” of the hatch.
My research proves your litho-tin toy dates from around 1942. Made by Marx and offered in early ‘40s Montgomery Ward catalogs, this plaything was larger and better decorated than the more common “Turnover Tank,” and employed the same basic mechanics as the “Planet Patrol Space Tank,” also from Marx. Current fair market value, in perfect working and cosmetic condition, is $125-$175.
Dear Collector,
I have this Jim Beam fox decanter on a display shelf for years. What is it worth?
Issued in 1965 and again in ‘67, this figural is called “The Green Fox” after the color of his riding jacket. Value rarely exceeds $30.
Dear Collector,
What is the story in back of my “Hubie Baby” button?
Promoting the 1968 presidential campaign of Hubert Humphrey, this pinback is worth all of $5.
Dear Collector,
What is the purpose of the device shown in the enclosed photos? There are no markings on it that I can see.
Your whatchamacallit is a pencil pointer, an early type of pencil sharpener. Probably dating from the last quarter of the 19th century, its value is around $40.
Dear Collector,
Would you assist us in identifying the age and value of this double teapot set? We recently got them at a local jumble sale at our church.
Your Twin-Tee miniature set consisting of a teapot, hot water pot and tray, dating sometime after 1930, came from the East Liverpool, Ohio, factory of Hall China Company. Value could be as much as $150.
Dear Collector,
I have come across a 50 cent piece with an 1818 date and have been unable to find anything about it, including its value.
Slightly less than two million 90% silver half-dollars were minted for 1818. Low value on one listed in circulated (good) condition is around $50.
Dear Collector,
Should I put this painting in storage for my children?
Your watercolor by Miss Wilson ( born in 1877), who worked in her namesake state and California until her death in 1961, may not command high prices at today’s auctions, but as with most artwork there’s always hope for the future.
Dear Collector,
Would you please tell me the value of this “Owens Utopian” vase?
Owens, an Ohio pottery established in 1885, produced artware similar to its nearest competitor, Roseville (both were located in the same town). Your early 20th century piece could be worth several hundred dollars, especially if you can identify the decorator from their initials which were often placed next to the maker’s mark.