THE COLLECTOR
Dear Collector,
Could you please tell me if this elephant cookie jar has any value? On the back is “USA.”
This pattern, called elephant with sailor hat, was used by a number of potters over many decades. Employing the mark and the jar’s palette (the colors used to decorate the piece) as clues, I can attribute it to a specific maker: American Bisque, a West Virginia company credited with producing many jars during its 60-year history. Date of manufacture is probably in the 1950s, and current value is $200.
Dear Collector,
I have a functional Victrola that my wife bought at a flea market 40 years ago. Could you give me any idea of its age and value?
Since you included your device’s serial number, I can say with assurance that this VV-XI disc-playing console was made in 1917. An unpretentious model, produced in great numbers, your Victor Talking Machine is now worth $200-$300.
Dear Collector,
I was given this bottle of Jim Beam whisky with a picture of the Blue Boy sometime in the ‘60s; it was supposed to be a collector’s item at the time. Does it have any value now?
This was one of a set of six art-themed bottles that Beam put out in 1966. Today, their values range from a low of $2 to a high of $6 each. Empty, of course.
Dear Collector,
I’m looking for info on a “N.W.P.” soup dish that was supposedly a wedding gift to my grandparents in the 1870s.
The initials stand for New Wharf Pottery, a Staffordshire concern that was established around 1878; which would coincide with your forebears’ nuptial timeline.
Dear Collector,
How much is a light green enamel Mickey and Minnie Mouse chamber pot?
Made in Germany during the 1930s, your pot, depending on condition, could be worth a load; as much as $400.
Dear Collector,
I have an official program from the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair; can you tell me what it is worth?
If you have the daily program, usually a 10- or 15-page pamphlet, value is $20. The larger, hardcover book with various photographic illustrations is now worth $25-$35.
Dear Collector,
I’m enclosing a photo of a blue acorn-adorned Roseville bowl that I inherited. I’m curious what the marking (354-6) on the bottom represents, and what its estimated value is.
To paraphrase David Everett (1769-1813), “Tall oaks from little pine cones do not grow!” Your 6-inch high (there’s the 6), circa 1930s Pine Cone bowl in shape number 354 is listed at between $175 and $250, according to several price guides.
Dear Collector,
My dad saved coins all his life and has hundreds of different types, including expensive and rare gold and silver ones. Now it’s come time to sell them; who would you suggest to contact?
Sorry, can’t do that. It wouldn’t be ethical or legal for me to help you sell (or buy) things.