The Collector
Dear Collector,
I have a Gene Autry wallet that is probably 50-plus years old, in near perfect condition. Is it worth anything?
Valued at almost $75, this leather billfold with zipper is as old as you claim. Sold through a store, as opposed as a radio or television premium, you wallet is an ideal reminder of the more innocent days of yore.
Dear Collector,
What is the value of my watercolor by Hugo A. Fisher?
Fisher (1854-1916), the son of a painter, was a Czech native who immigrated to America, where he eventually settled in California. Auction records show that similar works have hammered down for almost $1,000. Incidentally, Fisher was the father of an artist, also named Hugo.
Dear Collector,
My question regards the value of a 1951 Franklin 50-cent piece.
Also called a “Liberty Bell,” after the design on its reverse, this half-dollar contains a high percentage of silver, putting the current value in the range of $2 to $3.
Dear Collector,
Can you identify the maker of my family’s ancient vase? The story is that it was passed down through five generations.
The oldest date that could be placed on your vase is 1893, which is when its manufacturer, Arabia Porcelain Factory of Helsinki, Finland, was established.
Dear Collector,
I have enclosed pictures of a Brownie Kodak No. 2A Model B camera that belonged to my grandfather. Could you please tell me what the value would be?
Retailing for $3 in the 1920s, your simple box camera was made in the millions over a span of several decades. In terms of dollars, it’s not worth much more now than was it was new. This low evaluation is due to the apparent damage suffered by the camera during its long life.
Dear Collector,
I am sending you pictures of a Sessions clock, which I estimate is over 100 years old. I would like any information on its age and value.
Very close in appearance to Sessions’ circa 1930 Marbleized No. 1, your mantel clock has to be in running order, striker and all, to realize its potential value of $200.
Dear Collector,
My wife has an oval “Cyprus” bowl by E. Jenery of Burslem, England. What is its history?
Sorry for the correction, but the back stamp really reads “F.J. Emery,” a maker of earthenware (lightly-fired clay made waterproof by the application of glaze) who had a penchant for moving his business every few years. Your bowl dates from near the end of Emery’s perambulations, probably in the late 1890s.
Dear Collector,
I want to sell this statue. If you help me, I will give you 25 percent of the proceeds.
As a matter of ethics, I cannot assist you in selling your bronze dog grouping.
Dear Collector,
If you would point me in the direction of a buyer for this set of china, I would be happy to pay you a finder’s fee.
See above!