Collecting: 1940s TV set

Q: My uncle lived in New York City during the 1940s and had one of the first television sets, a 1946 DuMont, Model RA 102. It is a console with a 12-inch screen. Although it doesn’t work, is it worth much in today’s market? — Stephanie, Walla Walla, Wash.

A: I found your television set referenced in the latest edition of The Antique Trader Radio and Television Price Guide, edited by Kyle Husfloen (KP Books, $19.99). According to Husfloen, your set is worth approximately $1,200. The more expensive model, the RA-101-1A, which featured a motorized TV screen, radio and phonograph, is worth slightly more, about $1,500.

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Q: I have my granddad’s old tools. He came to the United States from Germany in 1905 and worked for most of his life as a carpenter. Although I don’t want to sell any of his tools, I am nevertheless curious about how much they are worth. — Steve, West Pueblo, Colo.

A: William A. Gustafson is the owner of William A. Gustafson Antiques, a shop that specializes in older tools. He might be able to help you. His contact information is P.O. Box 104, 11643 Route 22, Austerlitz, NY 12017; oldtools@taconic.net; and 518-392-2845. I also highly recommend The Antique Trader Tools Price Guide: Tools from the 1700s through the 20th Century, edited by Kyle Husfloen and published by KP Books.

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Q: I have eight pewter goblets that have been in my family for at least a century. The time has come to find out if they are valuable or merely cherished heirlooms. — Susan, Daytona Beach, Fla.

A: Pewter is a metal alloy consisting mostly of tin with small amounts of lead, copper, antimony and bismuth added to make the shaping of products easier and to increase its strength. Louise Graver is membership chairwoman of the Pewter Collectors Club of America, and she has agreed to advise you. Her contact information is 504 West Lafayette St., West Chester, PA 19308; www.members.aol.com/pewterpcca; pewter@comcast.net.