Quezal vase a real find

Sun., Feb. 3, 2008

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I purchased a Quezal vase at a yard sale for 25 cents. It looks like a Tiffany, and I have several friends who wish to buy it. — Pat, Riverside, R.I.

A: Quezal glass was made from 1901 until about 1924 in the Queens, N.Y., studio of Martin Bach Sr. Other companies made similar art glass, including Loetz, Steuben and Tiffany. Since Quezal vases generally sell for well above $1,000, my advice is to contact a reputable dealer or appraiser in your area and find out if your piece is authentic. If it is, you have a good eye and made a wonderful buy.

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Q: I have a bisque Mickey Mouse that is almost 50 years old. It stands about 9 inches. — Lucy, Goshen, Conn.

A: Since you sent no pictures and sketchy information, I’m afraid my answer will also be on the vague side. One of the better price guides is the Official Price Guide to Disney Collectibles, by Ted Hake (House of Collectibles, $29.95). If you suspect your figurine is valuable, it might be worth investing in this book to document your piece and find out for certain.

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Q: I have a collection of “Golden Replicas of U.S. Stamps,” plus other collections issued by the Postal Commemorative Society. How can I sell them? — Sheila, Huntington, Md.

A: Like many of the “instant collectibles” issued by the Postal Commemorative Society, they are lovely to look at, delightful to hold and impossible to sell. I recommend you contact the company for advice, since the only other alternative is an online auction. The address of The Danbury Mint/Postal Commemorative Society is 47 Richards Ave., Norwalk, CT 06857.

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Q: I have a lamp that first appeared to be glass-leaded. On closer examination, I decided the pieces of the shade might be plastic. I am enclosing a picture for your opinion. — Brenda, Marion, Ind.

A: Your shade is made of capiz shell, a close cousin of the oyster.

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