World War II maps

Q: As a veteran combat pilot of the 386th Bomb Group flying the Martin B-26 Marauder out of England, France and Belgium, I acquired a collection of about 20 flight maps used on the 62 missions flown in 1944-45. These are British RAF with a 1-to-500,000 scale similar to today’s U.S. sectional maps used in aerial navigation. I am interested in establishing a value for these unique items. — Earl, Schenectady, N.Y.

A: Your maps sound extremely interesting. I have several sources that might be helpful. Jacqueline Grace is a member of the Appraisers Association of America and specializes in both maps and charts. Write to her in care of Grace Galleries, 20 West Cundy’s Point Road, Harpswell, ME 04079.

Two clubs highly recommended are the Chicago Map Society, the oldest such group in North America, c/o The Newberry Library, 60 West Walton St., Chicago, IL 60610; and the California Map Society, 1109 Linda Glen Drive, Pasadena, CA 91105.

Since your maps are military, I suggest you contact Frank Pereny, an appraiser who specializes in militaria. His address is P.O. Box 176, Spring Grove, PA 17362. Two of the better publications for collectors are Military Trader, P.O. Box 1050, Dubuque, IA 52004; and Military Magazine, 2122 28th St., Sacramento, CA 95818.

Q: I have a large collection of WWI model airplane kits, unassembled and in original boxes. Where can I sell them? — Arnold, Spokane, Wash.

A: Larry Clark is president of the Society of Antique Modelers, P.O. Box 528, Lucerne, CA 92356. For a second opinion, contact Fred Sterns, owner of Fred’s Model World, a store that specializes in model kits of all types. His address is 48 Standish Road, Buffalo, NY 14216.