Cast iron

Sun., Aug. 27, 2006

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I have several cast iron items, including a vintage door knocker, two door stops and three sets of bookends. Does anyone collect these items? — Bill, Abilene, Texas

A: One of the better price guides is the Antique Trade Metalwares Price Guide edited by Kyle Husfloen, published by KP Books and available from the company, 1-888-457-2873. John and Nancy Smith are dealers who buy, sell and trade metalware items, and they might be able to help you. Their contact information is c/o American Sampler, P.O. Box 371, Barnesville, MD 20838, www.castirononline.com, and 1-301-972-6250.

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Q: I have a partial set of sterling flatware in the Blossom Time pattern. How old is it, and how much are my pieces worth? — Susan, Topeka, Kan.

A: Your pattern was crafted by International and introduced in 1950. The International Silver Company was formed in Meriden, Conn., in 1898 by a group of silversmiths. Their group included Rogers Brothers, Derby, Meriden Britannia, Webster and Wilcox, and others. To find out the true value of your silver, you need the services of a good appraiser in your area. To find one, contact the Appraiser Association of America, 1-212-889-5404; the American Society of Appraisers, 1-703-478-2228; or the International Society of Appraisers, 1-206-241-0359.

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Q: My mother owned a bridal shop that ceased operations in 1966. At least two dozen of her best gowns were carefully packed away, and the time has come to dispose of them. Can you help me? — Gwen, Miami, Fla.

A: Gayle Wilson is owner of Gayle’s Vintage Clothing and Accessories, and she specializes in older wedding gowns. Her address and telephone number are 3742 Kellogg Ave., c/o Ferguson Antique Mall, Cincinnati, OH 45226, and 1-513-271-3722.

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Q: I am a retired Ford Motor Company employee and have some early memorabilia, including pay stubs from 1918 and an employee pass for the River Rouge facility. — Terry, Zellwood, Fla.

A: Memorabilia of this type generally sells quickest and for the most amount of money when offered for sale at auction on eBay.

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