Chocolate molds
Q: My family molded chocolate throughout the 1920s. From that business, I have inherited several original molds. One of the more interesting ones depicts a lion and is marked “Sommet.” Do you have any idea of how rare it is? — Doris, Albuquerque, N.M.
A: I found your mold in The Collector’s Guide to Antique Chocolate Molds with Values by Wendy Mullen (Hobby House Press, $29.95). Even though this guide is several years old, I suspect present values wouldn’t be all that much different. Your mold was made in about 1920 and is valued at about $95. This guide seems to be out-of-print, but I found a used copy for $65 at amazon.com.
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Q: My wife has started collecting Swarovski crystal. Can you recommend a good reference book that she can use as she builds her collection? — Steve, Naperville, Ill.
A: My favorite reference is Collecting Swarovski: Identification and Price Guide by Dean A. Genth (Krause Publications, $29.99). This guide encompasses many forms of this crystal, including animal figurines, paperweights and even Christmas ornaments. It is available by contacting the company at 1-888-457-2873, or visiting its Web site, www.krause.com.
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Q: When I was a kid during the 1950s, I was given a small tin litho Shell service station and bank as a premium. I have kept it ever since, but have always been curious as to how much it is now worth. — Ken, Abilene, Texas
A: Your Shell service station and bank is worth $140 for the pair, according to Mark F. Moran, author of Warman’s Gas Station Collectibles Identification and Price Guide (Krause Publications, $24.99).
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Q: I have a 1925 Christmas menu from the U.S.S. Arizona. Does it have any value? — Elizabeth, Stone Mountain, Ga.
A: Jeff Albiniak is a dealer and collector specializing in military memorabilia. He is knowledgeable and has an excellent reputation. His contact information is c/o Copper Country Antiques, 5055 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ 85712; and cwbuffster@aol.com.