What might Brooklyn Bridge grand opening invitation be worth?
Q: I have an engraved invitation to the grand opening of the Brooklyn Bridge that was issued May 24, 1883. With it is a card personally addressed to my husband’s great-grandfather, a Baptist minister who gave the invocation at the ceremony. Where might I find a buyer for these two pieces of Americana? — Barbara, via e-mail
A: Brian Merlis collects memorabilia relating to Brooklyn and Long Island, including maps, documents, relics, badges, brochures and newspapers. He might be able to help you. His address is P.O. Box 14, Lynbrook, NY 11563.
Q: I have a signed baseball featuring players of the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1956. Where can I sell it? — Liz, via e-mail
A: James Murphy is an appraiser who specializes in baseball memorabilia. His address is P.O. Box 456, 266 West Greenwood Ave., Lansdowne, PA 19050. Two dealers who might also be helpful are David Hall, P.O. Box 408, Arlington, MA 02476; and Mark Cooper, 816 Chauncey Road, Narberth, PA 19072.
Q: I have a clock that was manufactured by the Ansonia Clock Co. of New York. I would like to find out more about it. — Jule, Pueblo West, Colo.
A: Most basic questions about clocks and their values can be easily found in an excellent reference book available at most book stores, the Antique Trader Clocks and Price Guide, edited by Kyle Husfloen (Krause Publications, $17.95). It provides a comprehensive reference to timepieces from the 17th through the 20th centuries with listings for some 1,400 clocks with accurate pricing information for each. This book may also be ordered from the publisher’s toll-free telephone number, 1-888-457-2873.
Q: I have an early book of Edgar Allan Poe and wonder what it might be worth? — Margaret, York, S.C.
A: Ask not the raven but an expert at the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum, 417 E. Fayette St., Room 1037, Baltimore, MD 21202.
Tip Of The Week: When selling an antique or collectible, always get at least two or three offers. Never sell an item to anyone who has appraised it, since there is the possibility of a conflict of interest.