Bible bonus
Q: I have an old 1862 American Bible Society Bible, inscribed on the front face sheet dedicated to a brother and sister in 1863. Found in the Bible are copies of currency, one dated 1840 issued by The Bank United States and the other from The Confederate States of America. Both are printed on heavy parchment paper. What information can you give me? — Jean, Colville, Wash.
A: To find out for certain if your currencies are copies, you need to consult with an expert. If you can’t find one in your area, I recommend Rob Weiss, owner of the Old Pueblo Coin Exchange, 4420 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ 85712; www.oldpueblocoin.com; and 520-881-7200. Weiss is a member of several professional numismatist organizations and has an excellent reputation for both his honesty and competence.Older Bibles, with a few exceptions, are of little interest to collectors. I suggest you contact William J. Chamberlin, vice president of the International Society of Bible Collectors, 6413 Snow Apple Drive, Clarkston, MI 48346; research87@biblemuseum.org; www.biblecollectors.org; and 248-620-0962.
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Q: I have a 15-jewel Elgin railroad watch, No. 14327595, which originally belonged to my husband’s grandfather. Do you have any idea of how much it is worth? — Meta, Centerville, Mo.
A: Your watch was made in 1909, according to 100 Years of Vintage Watches: A Collector’s Identification and Price Guide, by Dean Judy (Krause Publications, $24.95). With the scant information you sent, that is as much as I can tell you. You might see if your watch is in Judy’s reference, since it has up-to-date values and accurately reflects the marketplace.
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Q: I have a collection of fast-food collectibles featuring Garfield, including glass cups, mugs with handles and regular glasses. I also have Elmer Fudd, Foghorn Leghorn, Tweetie and Pokemon Welch’s grape jelly glasses. Any information would be appreciated. — Ann, Monroe Township, N.J.
A: Most of the action for fast-food collectibles is being triggered by eBay on the Internet. If you monitor the online auctions, you can determine the value of your glasses.