Are three old globes from Crown gas pumps worth anything?

Q: I have three old globes from Crown gasoline pumps, probably from the 1930s. They seem to be in excellent condition. I would like to sell them but have no idea of what they might be worth. – Robert, Toad Suck Ferry, Ark.

A: Yes, dear readers, there is, indeed, a Toad Suck Ferry, Arkansas. I did a quick check on eBay and found a Crown globe listed for $200. Since you didn’t send a picture with your letter, I don’t know if it is the exact design, but that should fuel your search.

Two collectors who might also be helpful are Gary Hildman, 3240 Sevier Road, Marcellus, NY 13108; and Scott Benjamin, Oil Company Collectibles, Inc., P.O. Box 566, Lagrange, OH 44050.

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Q: I recently began collecting American political memorabilia. I am a novice and would like to find a simple guidebook to help me as I add to my collection. Any suggestions? — Ken, Copperas Cove, Texas

A: Collecting Political Memorabilia by Richard Friz and published by House of Collectibles is easy to use and highly recommended. In addition to values, there is helpful information about which inaugural lapel pins are the scarcest, what third-party candidates rank among the favorite collecting specialties, and how to detect fakes. Priced at $12.95, it gets my vote.

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Q: I have a box of 36 packages of Batman bubble gum cards that originally were sold by Topps for about 45 cents per pack retail. Who can I contact to find out how much they are worth? – Robert, Brattleboro, Vt.

A: Fred Carini is president of the Captain Action Society of Pittsburgh and might be able to help you. His address is 516 Cubbage St., Carnegie, PA 15106. David J. Anderson is a serious collector. His address is 5192 Dawes Ave., Alexandria, VA 22311.

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Q: Is there a club for Frankoma pottery? – Steve, Phoenix, Ariz.

A: There is indeed: The Frankoma Family Collectors Association, P.O. Box 32571, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.