ASK THE COLLECTOR

Dear Collector,
This clock was given to my husband and me in 1936. Originally it was an ugly pewter color, so I painted it gilt (probably shouldn’t have). The warrior is handsome and his features are very detailed. I would appreciate any information you might have on this clock.  

Portraying a seated Hermes, known as the messenger or herald of the gods, your 1895 timepiece was made by Ansonia, a Connecticut based company. Your refinishing job won’t detract too much from its value, which is about $600. When first introduced, the Hermes was offered in several bronze tones, but I think your choice is just as suitable. In fact, a modern reproduction, which retails for $450, is available in a gold finish.  

Dear Collector,
I have a 1923 silver dollar; can you tell me how much it’s worth?  

When issued, your Peace Dollar would have purchased ten loaves of bread at ten cents each. Lately the precious metals market has seen a slow but steady rise, making the current value of this 90% silver coin about $12.  

Dear Collector,
I just bought this Moxie sign for $3 at a garage sale. Is it worth more than what I paid?  

Dating from the mid 1950s, your porcelain advertisement showing a hand holding a bottle of this out of the ordinary tasting soft drink is listed in one price guide at over $300.  

Dear Collector,
Enclosed are photos of some pieces of china I inherited from my father’s mother. Who made them and when?  

While some items can be identified by shape or style, it’s always best to send pictures of the maker’s marks, which you did not include. Without them I cannot determine either the factory or approximate date of manufacture. Chad Lage’s “Pictorial Guide to Pottery & Porcelain Marks” (Collector Books, 2004, $29.95) is a simple to use reference which may help you in identifying your keepsakes.  

Dear Collector,
I have a pair of miniature boxing gloves signed by Rocky Marciano. Can you tell me how much they’re worth?  

Marciano (1923-1969), the only heavyweight champion to retire undefeated, had a record of 49-0. If you can authenticate his signature, your gloves could be worth as much as $400.  

Dear Collector,
What is my elephant bank worth?  

I found this circa 1930 metal bank described in one collector’s guide as an “elephant with howdah.” A seat or open pavilion, sometimes covered, the howdah is usually associated with elephants and camels. Your novel coin depository has a present value of $65.  

Dear Collector,
What is the name of the design on this Roseville vase? My friend, who has a few Roseville vases, calls it Apple Blossom.   Marketed in 1939, your pattern is called Cosmos (described as “delicate flowers and greenery”), which bears a passing resemblance to 1948’s Apple Blossom.   Dear Collector,
How much is the December 2002 issue of Playboy worth?  

Sorry, I only answer questions about vintage collectibles: from before 1970.  

Recommended reading: “Boston Terrier Collectibles,” Donna S. Baker & Paul Hiller (Schiffer, 2003, $29.95). “Collector’s Guide to Feather Edge Ware,” Lisa S. McAllister (Collector Books, 2001, $19.95). “Tuff Stuff 2004 Standard Catalog of Football Cards,” The Price Guide Editors of Tuff Stuff (Krause, 2003, $25).

Prices quoted reflect retail values, and as with many antiques and collectibles these values vary. Readers are encouraged to submit questions with photos to THE COLLECTOR™, PO Box 229, West Boxford, MA 01885-0229 or ask online at: www.askthecollector.com. Please don’t ask us to suggest a buyer for your goods. Sorry, photos cannot be returned and will become the property of THE COLLECTOR™. For personal reply, send question with $25 check or money order to THE COLLECTOR at address above.
     

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