Collecting Christmas ornaments

Sun., Feb. 19, 2006

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I have a collection of dated Hallmark Christmas ornaments. Are they of any value, and if so, where can I market them? — Erna, Brattleboro, Vt.

A: Hallmark Cards was founded by Joyce C. Hall in Kansas City, Mo., and currently has more than 19,000 employees worldwide. Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments were introduced in 1973 and many have become extremely collectible. For example, at least three currently are selling above the $100 mark: Peanuts (1978), Disney’s Mickey Mouse (1977) and Christmas Spirit (1978).

There are several sources that should be helpful, including the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Collectors Club, P.O. Box 419034, Kansas City, MO 64141; dealer Kathy Parrott, Christmas in Vermont, 51 Jalbert Road, Barre, VT 05641; and Susan Marr’s Collecting Ornaments On Line (COOL) at www.daffodilgifts.com/club/.

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Q: Do you have any information on a Defy Jewell small kitchen stove fueled by both coal and wood? — Cheryl, via e-mail

A: I suggest you contact the Antique Stove Association, 2617 Riverside, Houston, TX 77004. Richard Richardson is a dealer whom I’ve found especially helpful. Write to him c/o Good Time Stove Company, P.O. Box 306, Goshen, MA 01030.

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Q: I inherited a bronze figurine that is approximately 16 inches tall and probably of Chinese origin. Who can I contact to find out more about it?

— William, via e-mail

A: M.J. Halper is an Oriental art expert and might be able to help you. His telephone number in Tucson, Ariz., is 1-520-323-6250.

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Q: I have a collection of older albums including several by the Beatles and Elvis. How can I find out about current values? — Theoni, via e-mail

A: I suggest you begin by purchasing a copy of one of the better price guides, Rockin’ Records, published by Osborne Enterprises. It is comprehensive and may be ordered directly from the publisher at Box 255, Port Townsend, WA 98368; www.jerryosborne.com; and 1-360-385-1200.

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