Pencil sharpener

Sun., June 1, 2008

Larry Cox King Features Syndicate

Q: I have a hand-cranked Handel Webster pencil sharpener in working condition. I have been offered $75 for it by a dealer. Can you tell me what it is worth? — Walter, Haines City, Fla.

A: An antique dealer generally offers about half of what he or she thinks they can sell an item for full retail. That leads me to believe your pencil sharpener is probably worth more, perhaps as much as $150. Remember, this is just my educated guess, not an appraisal. A free appraisal is worth what you pay for it.

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Q: I have more than 200 photos, tapes, scrapbooks and books, all pertaining to the actor Gary Cooper. He was my icon, and I saved and got everything I found about him. I am now 65 and would like to sell my collection. — Ramon, Albuquerque, N.M.

A: One of the best dealers is Larry Edmunds, owner of Larry Edmunds Bookshop, 6644 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028; Edmunds@artnet.com; www.larryedmunds.com; and 323-463-3273. He can help you liquidate your Gary Cooper collection.

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Q: In 1967, I purchased a 112-piece china set made by Noritake. Could you tell me the value? — Cathy, Albuquerque, N.M.

A: I recommend you contact the Noritake Collectors Society, 1237 Federal Ave. East, Seattle, WA 98102. Although the club does not offer a free appraisal service, one of its members might be able to help you. Tim Trapani is a collector. His address is 145 Andover Place, West Hempstead, NY 11552.

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Q: I’m writing to determine if my $1 silver certificate dated 1935 and my assortment of old coins from the 1930s are worth more than face value. — Violet, Yahtahey, N.M.

A: You need the expertise of a good coin dealer. I have heard good things about Steve Jacobson, owner of New Mexico Coin, P.O. Box 3622, Albuquerque, NM 87109; and 505-884-3122.

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