Stamp Collection

Q: I have my childhood stamp collection, which is about 60 years old. Where can I get a true estimate of its value? — Ginny, Lusby, Md.

A: One of the easiest ways is to purchase a copy of the Official Stamp Collector’s Bible, written by Stephen R. Datz and published by House of Collectibles. It is the ultimate guide for all things philatelic and is certainly worth its $22 price. If doing your own homework isn’t an attractive option, you must rely on the advice of others. There are stamp dealers throughout Maryland. Check the business pages of the phone books of larger metro areas and choose at least two or three to get a sampling of opinions.

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Q: I have a nude statue and would like to know how much it is worth. — Charlotte, Rio Rancho, N.M.

A: You need to contact an art appraiser, and you should expect to pay a nominal fee for his or her services. To find a qualified appraiser near you, I suggest you contact the Appraiser Association of America, 386 Park Ave. S, No. 2000, New York, NY 10016; the International Society of Appraisers, 1131 SW 7th St., Suite 105, Renton, WA 98055; or the American Society of Appraisers, P.O. Box 17265, Washington, DC 20071. As I often have said in this column, a free appraisal generally is worth what you pay for it.

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Q: I have a letter that was signed by Harriet Beecher Stowe in 1885. I have been offered $1,200 for it, but I think it might be worth more. — Lillian, Hastings, Neb.

A: A standard letter signed by Harriet Beecher Stowe should sell in the $200 to $500 range.

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Q: I have a small collection of plastic toys that I got from cereal boxes many years ago. Whom do I contact to see what they might be worth? — Geraldine, Fredonia, N.Y.

A: Dan Goodsell, owner of Tick Tock Toys, can help you. His address is P.O. Box 48021, Los Angeles, CA 90048.