Hummel plates

Q: I have a collection of Hummel plates. All are dated and in their original boxes. — Cam, via e-mail

A: Hummel plates are more difficult to sell than the more popular figurines. With that said, Dorothy Dous is a Hummel expert and might be able to assist you. Her address is 1261 University Drive, Yardley, PA 19067. Two established dealers are Annie Berger, Yesterday’s South, Inc., P.O. Box 565097, Miami, FL 33256; and Donald Hardisty, Don’s Collectibles, 3020 East Majestic Ridge, Las Cruces, NM 88011.

Q: I have a 1909 Sears & Roebuck Catalogue published by Venture Book Company in New York. How much is it worth? — Charlotte, Marion, Ill.

A: Your catalog is not an original from 1909, but rather a re-issue published in 1979. According to several book dealers I contacted, it is worth about $10.

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Q: I have a stamp collection that originally belonged to my grandfather. How can I tell what it might be worth? — Gretchen, Pueblo, Colo.

A: Homework, homework, homework. You might want to begin your research by purchasing a good basic book. I especially like the Official Stamp Collector’s Bible by Stephen R. Datz, published by House of Collectibles and available at most larger bookstores. Simply put, it is the ultimate compendium for all things philatelic and, best of all, is easy to use.

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Q: I have a five-piece silver tea and coffee service set that was purchased from a German family in about 1960. I have been told that it is Chinese export art, but I have not been able to verify this. — Betty, via e-mail

A: M.J. Helper is an Oriental art expert and might be able to help you. His address and telephone number are 2930 North Swan Road, No. 124, Tucson, AZ 85718; and 1-520-323-6250.

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Q: I would like to purchase a hammer spring for a 1901 Hopkins Allen pistol. Can you help me? — Frank, Sedalia, Mo.

A: You might begin your search by contacting Thomas Knox, Sr., president of the National Pistol Collectors Association, P.O. Box 15738, Saint Louis, MO 63163.