Sewing machine
Q: I have a Singer sewing machine that is the Model 15-30. It is in an oak cabinet that has been damaged by dampness. A neighbor has offered me $600 for it. Should I sell? — Bill, Indianapolis.
A: Take the money and run. According to several dealers I consulted, your machine is probably worth about $300, and perhaps even less with the cabinet damage you described.
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Q: I have a print entitled “Little Mary” by Currier of Currier and Ives. Although I’m not interested in selling it, I would like to find out about how much it is worth. Since the print has been handed down through five generations in my family, I know it is quite old. — Phyllis, Chelsea, Vt.
A: George J. Cohenour is the author of “Currier & Ives: A Value Guide” and considered an expert. His address is 4301 Beaumont Road, Dover, PA 17315. John and Barbara Rudisill are dealers who specialize in older prints, including Currier and Ives. They might also be able to help you. Their contact information is: Rudisill’s Alt Print Haus, P.O. Box 199, Worton, MD 21678; rudi@baybroadband.net; and 1-410-778-9290.
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Q: I have a Grand Ole Opry souvenir book signed by Johnny Cash and others. What is it worth? — Anne, Coventry, R.I.
A: You might want to contact an established autograph dealer. Al Wittenbert has more than 40 years of experience in the field. His address is 140 East 4th Ave., Mount Dora, FL 32757. For a second opinion, Brian Kathebes is a member of National Appraisal Consultants. His address is P.O. Box 482, Hope, NJ 07844.
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Q: I was recently given a collection of Toby mugs. Where can I sell them? — Ken, Westerly, R.I.
A: Ken and Roxana Khachadourian are officers in the Northern California Royal Doulton Collectors’ Club, a group that collects character jugs, Tobies, Bunnykins, Beatrix Potter, Kingsware and character figures and series ware. The address is P.O. Box 214, Moraga, CA 94556.