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Discover Mid-America — August 2004

Would a collector be interested?

Q. We have what we always called the “smoking stand.” It has an original glass ashtray and cigar holder attached. On the bottom is a tilted shelf for storage. It has been in the family for over 40 years. What is the age and value? B.F. - Apollo, PA

A. From your photo your smoking stand was made in the early 20th century. It could sell in a shop for around $250 or more.

Q. This gold mesh bag has a label inside that reads: “Mesh. Whiting & Davis Co. bags. Trade Mark Reg. Made in USA”. It is in excellent condition and made during the Depression years. What could it be worth? I.J. - Skokie, IL

A. A vintage clothing store could price it at $150 or more.

Q. While searching through my partner’s home recently, I came across a Lind Double Duty Table and Ironing Board combination made in Kittanning, PA in the early 1900s. Would a collector be interested? What is it worth? M.B. – West Leechburg, PA

A. Your novelty ironing board/table was one of many such types made in the late 19th century. A collector of early housekeeping collectibles would be interested, even in its condition. You could price it at $150.

Q. I bought this painting at an auction. While it is signed, I can’t make out the signature. It shows a little girl and a dog. What can you tell me? D.E.M. - Carbondale, KS

A. If your painting is an oil and not a print it could be worth several thousand dollars. The subject is charming and the painting dates to the late 19th to early 20th century. It would be wise to travel to the closest large city and pay to have it professionally appraised.

Q. There are no markings on this bell-shaped food chopper. It is at least 100 years old. S.L. - Springdale, PA

A. If it is hand-wrought iron as it appears to be and dating early 19th century, it could sell in a shop for $75 to $100.

Q. This old clock has the following written on it: “Patd. Oct. 30th 1883. Parisian. Manufactured by Wm. h. Gilbert Clock Co., Winsted, Conn.” What is the value? C.K. - Plainfield, NJ

A. In working condition it could sell in a shop for around $300.

A. Any of the vintage clothing shops in Wilmette, IL area or in Chicago.

Q. I have this large hair ornament comb with many rhinestones scattered on top. It dates pre-1940 and belonged to my grandmother. Who would I contact to sell it in my area? G.F. - Morton Grove, IL

Q. I received this old rocker from my grandmother that was originally painted with a mixture of ox blood lacquer. I would appreciate anything you can tell me as to age, values, etc. M.W. - Overland Park, KS

A. Your pressed back rocker with upholstered seat was made around the end of the 19th century and is probably oak underneath the paint. There were many different designs. Similar chairs can sell in shops for up to $400.

Send your question about your favorite antique to
THE ANTIQUE DETECTIVE,
c/o Discover Mid-America
104 E. 5th St.
Kansas City, MO 64106

Email: editor@discoverypub.com

> Antique Detective Q&A Archive — past columns