Remington bronzes
Q: I have two original Frederic Remington castings: Wooly Chaps and Mountain Man. No one in this area knows much about the value of Remington items. Can you help me? — Dorothy, Crossville, Tenn.
A: Frederic Remington was an accomplished painter, sculptor and illustrator, and one of America’s most important artists. He was born in Canton, N.Y., in 1861, and studied at the Yale Art School. He later moved West, where be became a rancher and cowboy. A chance commission by Harper’s Magazine triggered his interest in Western art, and so began his most productive period.
Manny Sgaool is knowledgeable about Remington bronzes and might be able to help you establish a value for the two you have. His address is 72 West Washington St., Hagerstown, MD 21740. For a second opinion, contact Remington experts James and Peg Aplan, 21424 Clover Place, Piedmont, SD 57769.
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Q: I have two paintings and need to find out if they have any value. Can you suggest a good art appraiser? — Susan, Groton, Conn.
A: There is an online service sponsored by The Collecting Channel that might be helpful. The addresses are 4 Brussels Street, Worcester, MA 01610; ata@collectingchannel.com; and www.AsktheAppraiser.com.
Another source is Peter Sorlein, a member of the American Society of Appraisers. He specializes in fine art, including, of course, paintings. His address is 17 1/2 State St., Marblehead, MA 01945. You should always expect to pay a nominal fee for the services of any certified appraiser.
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Q: My mother-in-law gave me several $50 bills that are dated 1929 and 1934. Are they worth more than face value? — Helen, Kissimmee, Fla.
A: I suggest you consult a good reference book. Although there are several good ones available, one I especially recommend is The Official Blackbook Price Guide to United States Paper Money by Marc and Tom Hudgeons (House of Collectibles, $6.99). Now in its 34th edition, it contains basic information, including current values, history and valuable how-to tips about collecting American paper money, from colonial currency to the mylar-protected bills of the 1990s.