Punchboards
Q: My dad remembers the old punchboards that were often found in neighborhood bars throughout the 1940s and ‘50s. For 25 cents, you punched out a paper cover of a small hole, and if it had a certain mark or color, you won $5. Other punchboards could be played for 5 cents per punch, and I’ve even heard some existed in larger cities that required a dollar to play. Dad has a birthday in August, and I would like nothing better than to give him a punchboard. Can you help me? — Roger, Dayton, Ohio
A: Contact Punchboards, 7610 S. Main St., Midvale, UT 84047; and (801) 255-4731. If you strike out, I recently saw several dozen vintage punchboards at Old Pueblo Coin Exchange, 4420 East Speedway, Tucson, AZ 85712; and (520) 881-7200.
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Q: I have four pieces of Steuben glass that I think are quite valuable. Can you suggest someone who can help me determine values? If my pieces are as valuable as I think they are, I would like to add them to my homeowner’s insurance policy. — Louise, Davenport, Iowa
A: Jeffrey Purtell is an established dealer who specializes in both the purchase and sale of Steuben glass. He is an expert and has agreed to help you. His contact information is 31 Pleasant Point Drive, Portsmouth, NH 03801; jfpurtell@steubenpurtell.com; and www.steubenpurtell.com.
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Q: I have a Stratton convertible compact, complete with puff and pouch. It is probably from the 1950s and features images of cats on its case. Any information about this unusual item? — Cathy, Hudson, N.H.
A: I recommend you contact Roselyn Gerson, president of the Compact Collectors Club, P.O. Box 40, Lynbrook, NY 11563; compactldy@aol.com; and 516-593-8746.
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Q: I have the first issue of Sports Illustrated, dated Aug. 16, 1954, and would like to know what it is worth. — Charlotte, Midwest City, Okla.
A: You can buy the same edition for $250 at Headline Sports, (713) 672-2793. Check out other issues at www.headlinesports.net.