Norman Rockwell

Sun., Dec. 19, 2004

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I would like to find a price list for Norman Rockwell collectibles. I have several plates featuring his artwork that I bought during the 1980s. — Nellie, Spokane, Wash.

A: Norman Rockwell was born in New York City. He studied at the Chase School of Art and found fame as an illustrator for such publications as Collier’s, Judge, Life, Look and, of course, The Saturday Evening Post. Many of his pictures idealized small-town America.

Although there are numerous reference books that list his collectibles, you might want to contact an expert. Mary Moline is just such an authority. Her books, “The Norman Rockwell Collectibles Value Guide” and “The Norman Rockwell Encyclopedia” are excellent. Her e-mail and Web site addresses are RockwellArt@aol.com and www.RockwellArt.com.

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Q: I have one of the new quarters that was double struck. Who can I contact to find out how much it might be worth? — Alice, Jamestown, N.C.

A: I suggest you get a copy of the “Official Price Guide to Mint Errors” by Alan Herbert. This excellent reference book is in its sixth edition and features exhaustive information about all kinds of mint errors. It will answer your question. Herbert’s book is available at most larger book stores or through its publisher, House of Collectibles, at www.randomhouse.com.

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Q: I have old play bills dating back to the 1930s. Who can I contact to sell them? — Alice, Brooklyn, N.Y.

A: Lacy E. Long is a serious collector who buys, sells and trades theatrical memorabilia. Her address is 199 Tarrytown Road, Manchester, NH 03103.

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Q: I recently inherited a dictionary that was published in 1830. It is absolutely fascinating, but I have no use for it and would like to sell it. Can you help me? — Rob, Phoenix

A: Edwin A. Miles is especially interested in pre-1865 English-language dictionaries. His address is 2645 Alta Glen Drive, Birmingham, AL 35243.

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Q: I have a half-pint milk bottle issued by Frink Dairy of Denver. Any idea of how I can find out more about both the bottle and the company that made it? — Terry, Vona, Colo.

A: One of the better resources is the Colorado History Museum, 1300 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203-2137.

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