THE COLLECTOR
Dear Collector,
I paid $142 for this set of rare Seiberling seven dwarfs figures. All have paint wear as shown. I would like to know if you think I paid a fair price for them.
Signs of wear always reduce value; but the fact that your figurines are somewhat rare brings their value up. I’d insure them for twice their current value, which is about $400.
Dear Collector,
I have an early 1950s Minolta 35mm camera; would the company be interested to have it for their museum?
Founded in 1928 as the Japan-Germany Camera Co. (Nichi-Doku Shashinki Shoten), it would be another year before they marketed their first camera. According to its serial number, your Leica clone was made in the early years of the model’s production, which was from 1953 to about 1958. Now Konica Minolta, this multinational company has its head office in Tokyo, where you can send inquiries to via email.
Dear Collector,
I would appreciate knowing if August and September 1928 issues of National Geographic in good condition have any special value?
The earlier issues of a magazine generally have a “special” value. In the case of “Geos,” that would mean the 1880s editions. Your copies are worth $10 each.
Dear Collector,
How old is this Ronson cigarette lighter; and can you tell me its value?
Resembling Wedgwood’s Jasperware, this circa 1955 enamel on metal pocket lighter was titled “Capri” by its maker. In working order, without any visible damage, it is listed at $45 to $75.
Dear Collector,
The vase in these snapshots was given to my parents many years ago. I recently came into ownership of it and am curious about its history and value. Can you supply me with any leads?
The impressed marking show me that your earthenware piece was made just prior to the First World War by Pearl Pottery of Staffordshire, England. I’d put its monetary value at $20 to $30; which is greatly outweighed by its personal value as an heirloom.
Dear Collector,
I inherited an 1879CC silver dollar in un-circulated condition. Can you place a value on it?
Operating from 1870 to 1893, the mint at Carson City (CC), Nevada produced coins in much smaller numbers than did the other U.S. mints; which is why your Morgan Dollar has a possible value of several hundred dollars.
Dear Collector,
My wife and I have been dragging these old china pieces as we moved from house to house for more than 40 years. Now that we’re retiring and moving again, for what I hope is the last time, is it worthwhile to bring these things with us?
On your extensive list, I can see at least four items that you may want to hold onto: Belle Vue pitcher, circa 1825; two 1850s “Medina” plates by Thomas Green; and the “Nippon” marked two-handled vase from the late 1890s.