Paper money

Sun., Sept. 12, 2004

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I have two pieces of U.S. currency, and I would like to find out how much they might be worth. Can you help me? — Jaydee, Russellville, Ala.

A: There are dozens of excellent reference books that will help you find the answers you need. I especially like the “Official Blackbook Price Guide to United States Paper Money,” by Marc and Tom Hudgeons (House of Collectibles, $6.99), now in its 33rd edition and available at most larger bookstores. This easy-to-use guide lists more than 6,000 prices of currency and is comprehensive, extensive and illustrated.

Q: I have some older pieces of jewelry that are probably from the Victorian era. Who can appraise them for me? — Mary, Montevideo, Minn.

A: Janet Lawwill is the owner of Azillion Sparklz, a mail-order and Internet business specializing in vintage costume and fine estate jewelry. She has a national reputation for both her honesty and expertise. Contact her at P.O. Box 36269, Tucson, AZ 85740; Jewel2@sparklz.com; http://www.sparklz.com/; or (520) 219-3712.

Q: I have a Marlin rifle, the Golden 50, Glenfield Model 60 with a serial number of 71414910. How can I find out if it’s valuable? — Robert, Apopka, Fla.

A: Frank Pereny is a member of the International Society of Appraisers and specializes in firearms. His address is P.O. Box 176, Spring Grove, PA 17362. For a second opinion, you might also want to contact dealer and collector Robert A. Dewar, c/o Robert Dewar and Associates, 512 Canal St., New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168.

Tip of the Week: My grandmother had an excellent piece of advice that especially applied to antiques: Think before you do. An acquaintance recently purchased a wonderful turn-of-the-century oak pedestal table. He took it home and several weeks later cut about half of the pedestal off so that he could have a coffee table in his family room. As soon as he did that, the value of his table plummeted. Before you cut, paint or change an antique in any way, think it through. Your so-called improvement might destroy its value.

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