Feed bags

Q: My grandmother grew up on a chicken farm in Missouri during the Depression. While sorting through her estate, we found a trunk full of vintage feed bags in various patterns and colors. Could these possibly have any value? — Ted, Tucson, Ariz.

A: Jane Clark Stapel is the contact person for The Feed Sack Club, a group that buys, sells and trades old feed sacks. The address is 25 S. Starr Ave., Apt. 16, Pittsburgh, PA 15202. Incidentally, there seems to be quite a demand for older feed sacks, since many are being recycled into quilts.

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Q: I have two pocket watches, both made by Elgin. I would like to sell them but have no idea of what they’re worth. — Betty, via e-mail

A: I recommend that you do a little homework before you make a decision. You can access a great deal of information at elginwatches.org. This easy to use Web site features a database that includes a comprehensive history of the Elgin Company and its products, technical help and additional links that will connect you to established dealers and collectors. You should also check out values listed at www.watchpricing.com.

Remember, values are just a guide and nothing more. For example, if one of your watches is listed at being worth $200 but you can only sell it for $150, the true value is the lower figure, since an item is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it in cold cash.

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Q: I have a 1925 dollar and a 1920 penny, and I would like to know the value of both. — Betty, via e-mail

A: For American issues, there are two excellent reference books that might be helpful: the 2008 U.S. Coin Digest, edited by David C. Harper and now in its 6th edition; and Warman’s Companion U.S. Coins and Currency by Allen G. Berman. Both are published by Krause Publications and are available online or at larger bookstores.