What might this old Bible be worth?
Q: I have an old Bible that was published in 1830 in New York. Is it valuable? — Timothy, Apopka, Fla.
A: Verily I say unto you that not all old Bibles are collectible. In fact, only a small fraction of them are of interest to serious collectors.
William J. Chamberlin is an officer of the International Society of Bible Collectors and might give you an accurate idea of what your Bible is worth. Contact him at 6413 Snow Apple Drive, Clarkston, MI 48346; research87@yahoo.com; and www.abebooks.com.
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Q: Several years ago, my husband found two vases made of shells that had been hidden aboard a ship. Since they were hidden, he thinks they might be unusual or valuable. How can we find out? — Sharon, Veradale, Wash.
A: Carole and Richard Smyth are the authors of “Neptune’s Treasures” and are serious collectors of seashell art. You can contact them by writing P.O. Box 2068, Huntington, NY 11743.
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Q: I have a large meat platter that has been in my family for years. It is hallmarked as being made by the Edwin M. Knowles China Company, but I know nothing more about it. — Mary Lou, Salem, Mo.
A: When I receive a question about china, I break out one of my favorite reference books, Lehner’s Encyclopedia of U.S. Marks on Pottery, Porcelain & Clay, by Lois Lehner (Collector Books, $24.95). This hefty 600-plus page book is a must for collectors.
According to the author, the Edwin M. Knowles company was started in West Virginia in about 1900. It specialized in dinnerware and continued production until 1963. The mark on your platter suggests it was probably made during the 1920s.
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Q: I have a number of old books, including some Zane Grey first editions. Where can I sell them? — Rodney, Topeka, Kan.
A: You might want to contact the Zane Grey’s West Society, 708 Warwick Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46825. The club publishes an excellent newsletter for enthusiasts, the Zane Grey Review.