Tops records

Q: I purchased a collection of 1,750 78 rpm recordings from an estate sale several weeks ago. The records are all songs issued on the Tops label and originally belonged to a distributor. They are still in their cardboard mailing cartons from the 1950s. I paid $2,000 for the entire collection and wonder where I can re-sell them. — Carlie, Temple, Texas

A: The Tops Record Company was a dime-store label, not that there’s anything wrong with that, as Jerry Seinfeld would say. The problem is that most of the artists that recorded for Tops are unknown, the arrangements lackluster and the discs of little or no interest to collectors. According to two dealers I contacted, Tops generally sell for less than 25 cents each, even in mint condition. Since the records are worth only a fraction of what you paid, selling this collection and covering the $2,000 you invested will be virtually impossible.

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Q: I have several old glass fruit jars that are a bluish/green color. How do I find out if they are of any value? — Marla, via e-mail

A: I get this question at least two or three times a month, and my answer is always the same. 1000 Fruit Jars Priced and Illustrated by Bill Schroeder is still my favorite guide. Each jar is identified and illustrated, making it a snap to find out if you have a rare or common jar. This nifty little guide is $5.95 plus postage and handling, and it may be ordered from the publisher, Collector Books, P.O. Box 3009, Paducah, KY 42002.

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Q: I began collecting casino dice several years ago and now have several hundred sets. How can I find out if they are worth anything. — Steve, Baton Rouge, La.

A: Two sources might be helpful. Jeff Lauderman is a serious collector, P.O. Box 9293, Canoga Park, CA 91309. Steve Lerner is a dealer who specializes in gambling collectibles including punch boards, equipment and dice. His address is 42 Barefoot Hill Road, Sharon, MA 02067.