Movie posters

Q: My family owned a small neighborhood movie theater in Illinois throughout the 1940s and ‘50s. My dad saved posters from many of his favorite movies such as “Spartacus,” “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” “Pillow Talk,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” and “The Sound and the Fury.” They are in near-mint condition and have been packed away for the better part of 30 years. I would like to contact someone who can help us determine their value. — Carl, Stigler, Okla.

A: Some movie posters are literally worth their weight in gold. For example, a nice one sheet of “Dr. No” is currently selling for about $450; “Chinatown,” in the $150-$300 range; and “Forbidden Planet,” an out-of-this-world $3,000. Dwight Cleveland is both a dealer and collector and has agreed to help you. His addresses are P.O. Box 19022, Chicago, IL 60610; poster_boss@aol.com; and www.movieposterbiz.com.

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Q: I have three old Hummel figurines. Is there a reference book available so I can date and price them? — Lynn, Secaucus, N.J.

A: Although there are several guides available, my personal favorite is Luckey’s Hummell Figurines & Plates: Identification and Price Guide, by Carl F. Luckey and updated by Dean A. Genth (KP Books, $27.95). This comprehensive guide is fully illustrated and features listings for more than 3,000 Hummel-related collectibles. A second guide, also highly recommended, is M.I. Hummel: Figurines, Plates, Miniatures & More, by Robert L. Miller (Portfolio Press, $24.95). Dorothy Dous is president of the Hummel Collectors Club, Inc., 1261 University Drive, Yardley, PA 19067.

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Q: I have three harmonicas that were used during the 1920s by a distant relative who performed in vaudeville. How can I find out how much they are worth? — Ken, Phoenix, Ariz.

A: Rick Nielsen is a member of the International Society of Appraisers and specializes in harmonicas. His contact information is 1132 Westmoor Place, Saint Louis, MO 63131. Neilsen has one of the largest private collections of the instrument in the world.