Billy Beer

Q: I have a can of Billy Beer, a product of the West End Brewery Company of Utica, N.Y. It was, of course, named after Billy Carter, brother of the former president, Jimmy Carter. It has never been opened, and I am curious about its value. — Dolores, Tazewell, Tenn.

A: Billy Beer first appeared in the marketplace during the mid-‘70s. To find out if it has any value, I contacted Tony Steffen, one of the country’s leading beer can collectors and experts. According to Steffen, a can of Billy Beer has little value to collectors. He adds that the same can be said for JR Beer, named for the character on the TV series “Dallas.” For additional information, you can contact Steffen at steinland@aol.com.

***

Q: I have a plate depicting the Lord’s Supper. It has two stamps on the back, one from the “Pearl China Company” and the other “Taylor Smith Taylor.” I have no interest in its value, but am curious why two marks from two different companies are on this plate? — Carol, Willmar, Minn.

A: The Taylor, Smith and Taylor Company operated in Chester, W.Va., from 1899 to about 1981. During its last decade, the firm was owned by Anchor Hocking and Company. The Pearl China Company began operations in 1931 in East Liverpool, Ohio. Your plate has two stamps because it was made by one company for the other. This was not uncommon. Some British ceramics have two and three marks that can indicate maker, distributor and even retailer.

***

Q: While attending college in Tennessee, I had an opportunity to travel many of the state’s back roads and small towns. I began purchasing advertising signs during the 1970s when they were still fairly inexpensive. I would like to sell my collection, but am at a loss of how to go about it. — Carl, Venice, Fla.

A: Shirley Beck collects tin, cardboard, porcelain and paper advertising signs and is considered somewhat of an expert. Perhaps she can advise you. Her contact information is P.O. Box 435, Mediapolis, IA 52637; adman@mepotelco.net; and 319-394-3943.