Children’s books
Q: I found some paper items in an old house near where I live. They included early books for children, many from the early years of the past century. In addition to “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” by Beatrix Potter, there is an interesting vintage copy of “Little Red Riding Hood.” Can someone appraise these items for me? — Richard, Willard, Ohio
A: One of the better outlets is The Prince and the Pauper, which maintains an inventory of more than 75,000 out-of-print and current children’s titles. Contact Jack Hastings for his help. The addresses and telephone number are 3201 Adams St., San Diego, CA 92116; books@adnc.com; www.oldkidsbooks.com; and 1-619-283-4380.
***
Q: I need to find an appraiser in my area to determine the value of a commemorate plate from 1914 featuring the images of the kings of Sweden, Norway and Denmark. — Richard, Lake Wylie, S.C.
A: To find an appraiser near you, contact the American Society of Appraisers, P.O. Box 17265, Washington, DC 20071; the Appraisers Association of America, 386 Park Ave. South, No. 2000, New York, NY 10016; or the International Society of Appraisers, 1131 SW 7th St., Suite 105, Renton, WA 98005. Another group that might also be helpful is the Commemorative Collector’s Society, Lumless House, Gainsborough Road, Near Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 2NR United Kingdom.
***
Q: I have a collection of 33 extremely old padlocks. Can you advise me who I might contact to determine their value? — Mary Lou, Salem, Mo.
A: You might begin your search by contacting the American Lock Collectors Association, 8576 Barbara Drive, Mentor, OH 44060. A second club is the West Coast Lock Collectors, 1427 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401.
***
Q: I have three Barbie dolls, one from the early 1970s and still in its original box. I would like to find out how much they are worth. — Sherrie, Naperville, Ill.
A: Julie Birenbaum is the contact person for the Windy City Collectors Barbie Doll Club, P.O. Box 417518, Chicago, IL 60641.