THE COLLECTOR
Dear Collector,
Enclosed is a photograph of a Benjamin air pistol that I have had for more than 50 years. What would the value be?
Benjamin, located in St. Louis, manufactured air rifles starting in the 1890s (just a decade after Daisy). In 1935, they began producing front pumping pistols – more pumps, more power. This Model 130 dates from the early 1950s, and because you still have the original packaging and manual, your pistol could be worth more than $200.
Dear Collector,
I have a roll of 1957 BU quarters; could you tell me its current value?
For the uninitiated, BU stands for brilliant uncirculated, a coin grading level. Depending on which mint (Denver or Philadelphia) issued your quarters, value is $80 to $125 respectively.
Dear Collector,
Enclosed is a photocopy of an old mirror that was given to me by a friend; can you tell me how old it is and what it’s worth?
The item in question is a reproduction of a 1920 Coca-Cola promotional. If you look at this pocket mirror’s rim you’ll see the copyright date of 1973.
Dear Collector,
Is an Old Fitzgerald decanter with “Man-O-War” imprinted on it worth anything?
Dating from 1969, your bourbon bottle is only worth about $7.
Dear Collector,
Is there any value to a May 1912 “National Geographic Magazine?”
In mint condition, this particular publication has a possible value of $20-$25.
Dear Collector,
What is the value of my 1928 $2 bill?
Well worn, your red seal note has a nominal value of only $3. It’s interesting to note that in 1928 this bill would have purchased about 20 gallons of gasoline; while today, $2 wouldn’t buy even one gallon.
Dear Collector,
We would like information on this lidded container marked “B&M China.”
What you have is a Burroughs and Mountford Co. porcelain biscuit jar. This Trenton, New Jersey, pottery was in operation for a very short time, so that’s why I can conclusively date your piece to 1879-1882. Right now, this transfer decorated object is worth $50-$60.
Dear Collector,
My father gave me a copy of “Gene Autry and the Thief River Outlaws” for my 6-year-old son to read. Is it worth anything?
I can’t put a price on the adventures your son will find between the covers of this Whitman juvenile book, but I can tell you it has a price guide value of $14.
Dear Collector,
Please help me identify the origins of this plate? I’ve included a drawing of all marks and numbers that can be seen.
Your ironstone “Victoria Star” piece came from Hanley, Staffordshire; specifically, the works of Morley & Ashworth, founded in 1859.
Dear Collector,
Here’s a picture of an old Howdy Doody watch found by my son while cleaning out our attic. It still works although the band is starting to fray. Any value?
Made in 1948 by Ingraham, your wristwatch (the band can be replaced) is now worth at least $100.