Collector plates can be hot

Q: I invested in collector plates for several years, and I am now interested in finding out what they are worth. Can you help me? — Corra, Springdale, Wash.

A: There are collector plates and there are collector plates. It would have been helpful if you had given me more detail. With such general information, I’m afraid I’ll have to provide you with a rather general answer. The International Collectors Guild is one of the better clubs for plate enthusiasts. Its address is P.O. Box 487, Artesia, CA 90702. Two dealers who might be helpful are Nancy Pelham, Homestead Gift Shop, 4 Hillwood Lane, Catskill, NY 12414; and Mickey Kaz, Collectibles Unlimited, P.O. Box 606, Woodland Hills, CA 91365.

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Q: I have a large collection of baseball memorabilia, including a baseball signed by members of the Chicago White Sox team during the 1970s. Can you give me an idea of how much it might be worth? — Alyce, Fairfield Glade, Tenn.

A: James Murphy is an appraiser who specializes in baseball memorabilia. Write to him in care of the Philadelphia Bat Company, P.O. Box 456, 266 West Greenwood Ave., Lansdowne, PA 19050. Two collectors are Stan Block, 128 Cynthia Road, Newton, MA 02159; and Bill Simmons, 181 NW 78th Ave., Margate, FL 33063.

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Q: My father was in the military during World War I. He managed to save several souvenirs from France, including a pink silk apron and two embroidered flags. I also have a square pillow top and hankie from the same place and era. Who would be interested in purchasing them? — Lorraine, Menomonie, Wisc.

A: Howard Averbach is a collector who specializes in patriotic embroideries. His address is 1919 Delaware Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.

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Q: I have several Jim Beam decanters. Where can I sell them? — Mary, Dubuque, Iowa

A: I suggest you contact the Jim Beam Bottle and Specialties Club, Shirley Sumbles, president. The address is P.O. Box 486, Kewanee, IL 61443.