THE COLLECTOR
Dear Collector,
I’m 72 and probably received this toy gun in the late 1930s. It was made by Wyandotte. When the trigger is depressed the cowboy moves forward with a loud click. Can you give me any info?
Your “Me and My Buddy” clicker gun probably sold for about a quarter in 1935 when it was new. Well maintained, this stamped tin toy is currently worth at least $200.
Dear Collector,
I have this old tin advertising “Jerome B. Rice Seed Company.” How much is it worth?
A replica of an early 20th century sign, your tin was manufactured within the last 10 years by Desperate Enterprises, a company that specializes in nostalgic reproductions.
Dear Collector,
I have a 1911 Wheat penny and was wondering what it is worth? It is in fair condition with obvious signs of wear.
Designed by Victor D. Brenner (his initials can be found on coins produced after 1918), this style replaced the venerable Indian Head cent in 1909. Your copper penny was one of almost 120 million minted in 1911. The value range of 25 cents to more than $5 is determined by which facility struck your coin: Philadelphia, Denver or San Francisco.
Dear Collector,
Is my Haeger vase worth anything? I’ve had it since at least 1950.
Sometimes referred to as Royal Haeger, this outfit started out in 1871, making bricks and tiles. Around 1911, they added flower pots and vases to their inventory. Your floral-decorated vase dates from shortly after 1914, which means it was probably a quarter-century old when you got it. Haeger pieces generally don’t command the same prices as do their contemporaries Roseville, McCoy and Hull. I’d say a fair value on your vase is between $20 and $35.
Dear Collector,
My Tabitha doll was a present on my eighth birthday in 1966. She wasn’t a favorite toy of mine, so I never played with her. Although the box she came in was thrown away, the doll looks brand new. What is she worth today?
An Ideal toy, Tabitha (Hebrew for gazelle) was based on Elizabeth Montgomery’s TV daughter on “Bewitched.” Current value is more than $300.
Dear Collector,
I have a copy of Charles Dickens’ “The Mudfog Papers” that came from the library of actor Jean Hersholt who signed it. What is it worth?
Hersholt (1886-1956), the uncle of actor Leslie Nielsen, is best known as the inspiration for the special humanitarian award periodically given by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. He appeared in over 100 films, though his most memorable role was that of small-town physician Dr. Christian, a part he played in six films during the 1930s and ‘40s. Your signed book (an unusual Dickens’ title) is now worth over $100.
Dear Collector,
Is there any chance you can identify the maker of the pitcher in these photos?
Marked with the initials of Etruria Pottery’s founders, Ott & Brewer, your porcelain ewer dates to the 1880s.