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Please read my article on selling prices as it relates to all values given for VALUE type questions
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Now, on to your question. Trains are definitely a popular collectible and they have been for many, many years. More information would certainly be helpful if you wanted specific values but I can say that Marklin is a fantastic name in trains and one of the highly collectible brands.
Can't get much better than Mint in the box either. You might want to check in on them as some insects have a nasty habit of eating lithos from decorated box tops. You might want to make a tiny investment (a few dollars) in some protective bags to seal your collection. It is possible that some of the train collectors clubs have specific packaging to address boxed trains so you might look into these clubs or visit a train show when it comes to your area, and it will!
I hesitate to give you even a hint to value but I will pass on a little top level information simply to convince you of the importance of researching such a potentially valuable collectible; There are, of course, vast variations in prices in both directions based on the type of car, age, etc. but given the age that you noted count on your cars in their original boxes to sell for at least $300 EACH, retail. This is probably the low end of the scale and many examples bring $500, $800 and much more so do your research before you sell them. Again, shows provide a good basis for comparison and you might even find your particular cars, etc. at a larger show. Many price guides have been published on trains so they, too, can provide a reference. As always, read the front of the guide to determine how the prices determined. I'm planning on posting a few unsolicited articles in the future on the pitfalls of price guides but most better guides provide enough caveats for you to get the idea that prices vary by region, location of sale (e.g.. auction vs. dealer), etc.. Always remember that the price than anyone places on an item has much less relevance than what the item actually sells for.
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Subject: Sinatra record values
(plus Elle's thought on manipulating the Collectibles market(s))
Question:I have a stack of Sinatra records. How long before they're worth anything?
Thanks,
Frankie Fan
Answer:Excuse me Frankie Fan if I use your question as a means of spring boarding into an issue I've wanted to talk about.
First your question: Your records are certainly worth something right now and many rarities are fairly valuable. Without specific titles, labels and conditions it is difficult for me to do anything but give you a few examples [source: Official Price guide to Records 11th, 1995 - Osborne] (I know!, I generally like to use a record guide that is a couple of years behind for valuing as it tends to eliminate the temporary boosts caused by deaths, major death anniversaries, etc.);
On this note, your question raises and issue regarding the changing collectibles market and the advanced awareness of the value, though often questionable, of collectibles. Through "limited" stamps and endless "variations" the toy companies, along with a little help from toy scalpers!, have learned they can make more money by "limiting" the production of an item or packing it with a special premium, hologram, etc.. The biggest draw back in my mind, as it applies to the toy market, is the fact that kids find it almost impossible to get these toys. God knows there are very few "cool" toys out these days, as compared with the 50's and 60's, and its a shame that many children can't even have one of these few for their enjoyment and future nostalgia. Don't get me wrong, there is a place for limited editions in the collectibles market. However, Im talking about an edition of less than 10,000 and more like 5,000. So many of these "limited editions" are greater than 50,000 items and that's a lot. When selling time comes around you tell me who you think will have a better chance of making a profit! Further, you should expect a great quality and/or detailing of your item when it is limited. It used to be that the words "limited edition" denoted a certain quality that by the nature of its intense manufacturing/creating had to be limited - you were buying a quality item with great promise of increased value. Of course only time will tell if the example I've shared with you will result as I have outlined. Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Elvis McCormick Decanter Thanks so much for your time. Generally these sell loose for $60-$125. You are likely to see many of these listed for sale at prices approaching $200-$225 but most do not sell at this level. By the same token, a patient buyer can find these at significantly lower prices at auctions and the like. The best buyers for these are the collectors of Kitsch items since most serious Elvis collectors don't generally touch the commemorative/death items. Frankly, Im shocked that your selling such a fantastic display item! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Holland mold figural nut with Squirrel on top nut holder These pieces are very common and I see quite a few with different degrees of finish quality. Some of them are quite professionally painted and fired. The real worth is in the Kitsch nature of the container and not the manufacturer as with good pottery. The container was meant to hold nuts for cracking. They are still so readily available at flea markets, yard sales, and the like so I doubt you would see them in many shops because of this. Just saw two this week for $3 and $5. Personally I love stuff with figures on it like this and many others share my feeling as they make great display items in the kitchen or living room. It would look great along with a nut shell dish with a Squirrel on it (Funk & Junk® had one a couple of years ago that was really great, silver metal with nice full Squirrel on it) or some other related piece- giving you any ideas? Hope this helps out and thanks for your question, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Bettie Page Playboy centerfold Bettie Page is more popular than ever now and items with her image are highly sought after. I would place a value of $75-85 on your centerfold, its a great image of Bettie. Its possible that you might get a little more since most Page collectors are really interested in the centerfold but probably don't want to tear it out so you've saved them some worry about destroying the magazine. Thanks for the question! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Battery removal in sealed Collectibles I'm going to start off with a brief discussion on original packaging and value: The Value of Original packaging Look, the difference in the price of a toy that is sealed in its original box versus open but in the original box (condition being equal) is going to be negligible and should, in my opinion, be the same. Ok, there IS something to be said for opening boxes, etc. carefully but this is only so that you don't damage the paper and/or litho on the packaging. Don't get me wrong here, I'm a firm believer in original packaging and I think it should always be maintained if possible as it will definitely help the resale value in the future. Now on to your question. Subject: Battery removal in sealed Collectibles cont. I'm not going to give you a direct answer but rather my thoughts as they relate to my collections, you have to choose what side of the debate your on. The batteries of today are significantly better than any made previously in terms of corrosion leakage which is your major concern. If your toy is an older one than any damage that is likely to occur probably has. I have many toys from the 50's and 60's that still have their original batteries and they show no deterioration at all. I try to remove all batteries from this era of toy but I tend not to go to any great length on the newer toys. Sometimes Ill keep the batteries packaged separately because I thinks its kinda of cool to have the originals (hey, you never know? There are already people who collect older batteries!). Lots of the newer toys utilize the button type batteries that, I suspect, are less susceptible to the type of deterioration usually associated with "A", "C" and "D" batteries. No scientific backing for my belief in the longevity of these batteries but I have never seen a corroded one. When the package is easy to open and the batteries are easy to get to I do try to remove them in newer toys. Sometimes this involves opening the box, carefully undoing any tie strips (hopefully metal reinforced twist type), opening the battery compartment and then reversing the whole process. It can be a real hassle and I have to admit I'm pretty lazy about it and I have lots of toys in my collection that I haven't gone through this procedure with. I realize it and I'm willing to take my chances that most will be ok. Solid plastic strips make this procedure near impossible if you want your packaging to be pristine. You could possibly replace these holders with similar commercial bands like the twist ties used on most action figures (which brings us back to the packaging discussion again!!). When I buy new toys strictly for future sale, I usually enter them in my collection database and speculate as to the first available year of sale with a reasonable profit. If something is super hot and/or limited, it is conceivable that I could sell it for a reasonable, though maybe not maximum, profit in 5 years. If this is the case, I don't think I have to worry about the batteries. I realize that most people don't do this kind of speculation, at least consciously, but I always recommend it. Selling for a profit is, after all, a business like any other and it requires a certain degree of planning for success. As you can see, there are arguments for both sides and you really need to consider the age of the toy, the ease of opening the package without damage as well as your planned storage time. Hopefully I've given you food for thought! Phew!, Thanks (I think) for your thought provoking question, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Homer Laughlin China Company Prior to 1900 a number of marks were used that simply indicated that the piece was manufactured by HLC. Following this, however, a series of numbers were used to date the month and year of production. This series of numbers has changed a few times with regards to how the year and month are indicated. Briefly; Prices range widely as many patterns were manufactured. With the differences between structures of the number/letter marks you should be able to easily identify the period of your pieces. Then, once you identify the pattern and manufacturing information, it is an easy process to gather value information. The one exception might be your bedpan, I don't think I've ever seen one or a reference to one. Thanks, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: "Laffun Head" spitting face plaques I asked the inventory people at Funk & Junk® and they said they would put an item like this (which they HAVE had before!) in the Miscellaneous Collectibles and Kitsch section of the site. Where other sites would put these depends on their organization but I would expect that most would fall into their miscellaneous type category. Now I'm sorry I didn't pick that one up at the thrift store a few months back. Probably would have but it was one of those thrifts who had it in their "Collectibles" case with a price that I felt wasn't appropriate. I know these stories pain people looking for something (I've heard my share too!) but it should also give you hope that they are not so hot that you can't stumble upon them before they enter the retail market. Thanks and good luck, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Playboy metal / glass bottom steins I would value your set in the mailing box at $70-$75 retail. Not much added for packaging as your box, though a nice addition, is a plain mailing box as opposed to a decorative package. Generally speaking, the more sought after mugs feature the "Femlin" girl with key figure. Hope this helps and thanks! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Greek decorated blue glass bottle By the way, lots of people collect figural decanters. I've passed your comments on to the gang and they are much appreciated. More people should drop notes like this - keeps up the morale! Thanks for your question, I can't do this without you guys! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Royal Doulton Toby Mugs/Jugs Check out Funk & Junk's® link page for L-W Books. They should have at least one Royal Doulton book (the one that sticks in my mind is "Royal Doulton Beswick Jugs" which I think is fairly current). Many general Antique price guides include a section for your jugs as well and you should always check a few references when researching values (the more the better!). Specialized/specific guides generally indicate higher values as they are dealing with a distinct market of collectors. Good luck and remember - research CAN be fun! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Avon (multiple general responses & Chess set value) First a quick blurb - there are LOTS of these containers out there, I mean A LOT!. Very few of these are of any significant value mostly because of there mass distribution and survivability. This response (after only a few months of my being online for Funk & Junk®) is addressing no less than 12 requests. The market is flooded with these items and it is definitely a buyers market right now and its a tough sale these days. Again, I realize that there are exceptions and I would welcome sale prices from reputable dealers that I may post as an update. I have dealt with few dealers who even entertain purchases of Avon these days. Lots of the dealers I see who do have Avon usually got it as a result of a larger purchase or paid very little for it and simply felt they couldn't pass it up. Because of this fact, your outlets for sale are very limited and will likely end up being a yard sale or flea market table. You should be able to get $0.50 - $2 for a select number of containers that will most likely sell because of the item it represents (eg. golf bag, chess piece, etc.) as apposed to simply an Avon bottle. This is how I feel these items are best marketed, not as an Avon bottle but as a representation of what you collect, your hobby, etc.. There are collectors clubs for Avon and probably a newsgroup on the Net (I haven't verified this but there seems to be one for every collection!) that you might pursue. I've mentioned before that the general principle is that you can get more for you item with a specialized audience but I'm not sure whether you will get top dollar since this may break the rule since there are so many available. Ok Michael, here you go.. In a good market, your main pieces are worth $4-$5 each and the pawns (if made) would probably be about $2.5 each. As a set you have a little added value and I would put a price of $100 on the complete set. If there are, in fact, no pawns you can do the math to get an idea. The set has greater appeal but the total price may scare some potential buyers away just because it adds up quickly. I know I'm disappointing a lot of people with my Avon response but hopefully you followed the first rule in collecting - "buy what you like!" and it's not only about the potential profit. I personally don't collect Avon but I do like many of the containers. If nothing else you have a nice collection to display. As always I want to thank all of you for your questions and overwhelming response to my column, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Pepsi/Warner Brothers glass variations In addition to all of the glasses being produced with either Black or White lettering there were also variations in the type of glass (Thick/"Brockway" glass or Thin "Federal" glass). Additionally, many of the glasses had individual variations such as nose color on Sylvester, "Beep Beep" printed with Road Runner, and the like. Finally the logo placement was under the character name on a few glasses (this type is usually referred to as "logo under"s). Adding up all of the known individual variations and letter colorings means that you would have to buy well over 100 glasses (believe it is currently at about 125) to have the complete "set" of these fantastic premium glasses. The letter coloring does not effect the price and most sellers have dropped the noting of lettering color. The primary value difference is between the two types of glass with the thinner, Federal, glass generally being the more valuable. Significant glass variations (eg. "Beep" "Beep" on Road Runner) can also effect price but not as significantly as the glass type. By the way, try filling these glasses with your favorite beverage to just below the logo then fill the rest with your favorite mixer for the perfect drink! Don't drink too many of these babies however! See ya! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Smurf wallet I would expect to see you wallet priced at $18-$25 in any cool store. Because of their intended use, wallets in good condition are hard to come by and a little competition could easily add a few bucks to your gem. Thanks, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: T.V. tie-in records-general value, Man from U.N.C.L.E. in particular T.V. ,cartoon and movie tie-in records have been collectible for a long time and many of them are hard to find. This is especially true for finding examples in very good condition. I have been well aware of the collectibility of these type of records for many years and I've been keeping my eye on their values. I have generally seen their prices rise significantly, particularly in the last 5 years. These records are sometimes one of only a few collectibles on a particular show, etc.. A great example of this is the Astro Boy theme record which represents one of only a handful (if that) of 60's U.S. made Astro boy merchandise. Because of this, collectors and fans will damn near run you over trying to get at them. There are, of course and as always, records that are not of significant value due to lack of popularity, mass production, etc.. Generally speaking the outer sleeve is at least as important as the record and usually more important as the vast majority of collectors want the displayability factor. I think this is changing slightly as I know a lot of people who really want the recording to play or D.J.s who want to sample them into their mix, etc.. I think this shift is evident by the number of CD releases of T.V. theme songs, popular artists versions of theme songs, and the like. Regardless of whether they desire a great condition record or fantastic sleeve it is still important that both pieces be in acceptable shape, just a collectors hang-up I guess. Since you were not specific, I can only assume that by "good" you mean a record that has been played and shows signs of wear though will play all the way through as Funk & Junk® notes on their grading page exception for records. Each one of these records would retail for $35-50 with your examples falling in the lower realm. Even bad records in nice sleeves can command some cash though it would be significantly less. The market for these records has still not fully solidified so you can still find many extremes, in both directions, with regards to prices. Also you can still occasionally find them in used record stores at bargain prices since they price them with different criteria and take the T.V., cartoon or movie less into account. Get them while you can because it is definitely getting harder to find examples in good condition AND bargain prices. Thanks, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: 8 MM Cartoon films Some of these films will be what is termed a "cross-over" collectible. That is to say that the item is collectible to a number of groups of collectors. Different groups may place a different "value" on the item depending on a number of factors. A nice example is your Little Black Sambo film. This film might be desired by cartoon collectors, and/or 8MM film collectors but also black memorabilia collectors who are likely to value the item more and would, therefore, be the best market to sell in. With your other films, in addition to general cartoon collectors, Hard core Disney collectors with tons of traditional Disney stuff might want these somewhat unique piece in their collection. Sorry, but as I work for Funk & Junk® , it would be a conflict of interest if I were to provide any of my readers with other specific links to sell to. By the same token, I try not push or hype Funk & Junk® in my column though I wouldn't align myself with them if I didn't think they were one of the best in the business. Buying and selling is not as easy as many people think and it often takes a significant amount of time to establish reliable buying and/or selling connections. As for value, without a more complete listing the only information I can give you is a fairly broad range. Your films would sell for from $10 to $50. You might have one that would go a little higher depending on the character and its rarity. Most will likely sell for around $15-25. As I've mentioned before, these are retail prices. Not only would you get a percentage of that price from a shop but it is collectible that is difficult to sell for a decent amount anywhere else (eg. flea markets). Readers should note that it is always better to give me more information (eg. detailed listings, marks, etc..) than not. I can always ignore too much information but I don't have the luxury of asking you additional questions. Let me know when the film festival starts! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Poodle lamp Not enough details for me to completely narrow down your particular lamp to examples I'm aware of. There are at least 3 Poodles on pillows lamps I'm aware of and their quality differs from lamp to lamp. There is a textured ceramic version that is quite nice and it usually sells for $95-$125. The other, lesser, examples usually range in price from $60 to $75+. Your lamp, however, sounds much larger than the versions I have seen and I wish I had some more details about the make up/detail of the lamp. Sheer size may get you a few extra bucks unless it's very poorly done and then the opposite may occur. Poodles, along with Flamingos, appear to be back with a vengeance and it's a sellers market right now. Poodles haven't shot up quite as much as the Flamingos but I'm guessing they will rise a little more before their popularity dips again. Thanks, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Howdy Doody character watch, does it exist? There may also be a plastic quartz or digital out there but I can't confirm that. It is likely for the 40th Anniversary that a cheaper watch was released. All of these prices are without the original box. Add at least $75 (I've seen them for as much as $150!) for each 1950's box and at least $5-10 for the other watch boxes (about $25 for the 1971 version). How's that? - Thanks! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Hubley Texan Jr. metal cap gun Thanks for your time and attention on this matter!! I'm going to assume that yours is silver and from the 1960's though they were made both in the 40's and 50's as well. I'm also going to assume that you don't have the matching gun and/or the original box which, obviously, adds value. The above outlined gun is worth from $35-$75 depending on which model it is. The 50's models generally start at $75 and the 40's start at $85+. Please keep in mind (because of the facts Ive noted above) that I've given you real general information here and there are also rare versions with regard to construction , metal finish/color, etc.. that can be considerably more valuable. Prices for these guns can go as high as $200-$275 for the hard to get guns and rare sets in boxes. Hope this at least gives you an idea! Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Elvis silver spoon You didn't mention it but the best spoons,in my kitschy opinion, are the ones with a picture of Elvis at the top. Unfortunately, not a significant Elvis item. Spoon collectors wont pay much and may even laugh at you, Elvis collectors will pay $12-$15. Takin' care of business baby!, Thanks, Choose another question by subject Choose another question by Date Posted Shop at Funk & Junk Collectibles and Vintage Clothing
Subject: Manipulated new "Collectibles" markets
The 90's have seen a tremendous growth in what I like to call "controlled markets". The best example of this is the "limited edition" craze in the toy market.
One of the biggest culprits of these type of methods is the Ty company and their Beanie Babies. By retiring selected Beanies they have driven the market well past any possible expectations of return on the investment of Beanies. Sales in the thousands have been verified for these $5.99 retail toys! Hey!, buy what you like but for gods sake! Sure, I know that many people aren't buying these with the expectation of resale but lots of them are as they get caught up in the fever and watch hard core collectors paying, for whatever reasons, exhorbinant prices for some Beanies. Combine the retirements with a few unscrupulous toy scalpers and you have the perfect market for both new (here's where Ty rakes it in!) and "old" beanies (for those dastardly scalpers!).
Fortunately in the last couple of years I have seen what is hopefully the beginning of the end of this trend as evidenced by, for example;
There are other methods of market controll out there but the "limited edition" is by far the most used these days.
As the consumers out there start becoming more educated about the Collectibles field this trend will, hopefully, cease for the most part. The problem is greater for the entry collector who is often swayed by sensational rumors and the occasional misreported values by the Media which often leave out key points that effect the final sales of any collectible (I smell a future article here!).
As I mentioned above, buy what you like but if your looking toward the eventual sale of your items then be careful and get a little education so you can buy wisely.
Question:Hello,
I have a 1977 McCormick Elvis Decanter (Elvis in pink jacket w/ bow tie), in its original packaging and unopened, and I am trying to find out if there are any buyers out there and what I can ask for such an item.
Holly
Answer:Hi Holly,
McCormick actually put out a number of Elvis decanters in the late 70's. The six different varieties I'm aware of are:
McCormick also put out at least one Elvis bust decanter that Im aware of.
These figural bottles are not as uncommon as many people think since they were sold along with the booze they contained and, for a small premium, many people bought these as they wanted the drinks anyway!
The most sought after bottles are the Gold and Platinum varities followed by the Hawaiian.
You box certainly adds value, as does the booze!, and would help the sale. I would be remise if I didn't mention that it is illegal for you to sell the whisky so be careful, though I doubt the ATF is gunning for you!
Your variety is at the lower end of the scale and I would put yours at about $100-110 RETAIL.
Question:I have a piece of ceramic pottery with the name "Holland mold" with the letter "c" inside a circle between the name as mentioned before;is this a significant piece or just a piece of cute pottery?
The sculpture is a squirrel on top of a large acorn and it has a lid that lifts off.
Thank you for your time. Laney
Answer:Hi Laney!,
Holland molds were pieces of pottery manufactured specifically for crafters to glaze and fire for themselves. Though in business for many years, the heyday for Holland Molds and this craft firing was in the early to mid 70's (though it is again gaining in popularity). The "C" in circle is the symbol for a copyright on the design.
Elle
Question:I have a playboy playmate of the month of Bettie Page. The month is January, do you know the year ?
She is kneeling decorating a Xmas tree wearing a Santa Hat . The centerfold is in NRMT shape & is Linen Backed I only have the centerfold not the Book. Does it have any value?
Any help with the year & value will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks. Larry
Answer:Hey Larry!
The centerfold is from the January 1955 Playboy.
The full magazine value ranges somewhere from $100 to $300 depending on condition. I have seen this magazine at a recent auction with an estimate of $200-400 but it failed to meet its reserve (which was probably $250-300).
Elle
(plus Elle's thoughts on original packaging)
Question:I have some Items that are still "attached" to their original boxes, however they also have the batteries in them that were included. As far as value is concerned:
Take the batteries out, but that would mean cutting some of the plastic hooks attaching the items to the box or
Leave the batteries in, but having a toy in its original purchased condition?
Answer:Well Harveytdog, you've really opened a can of worms here!
The storage of sealed items with their batteries has been argued amongst collectors for many years and the pack is usually split. Here's my slant on the issue
I think that the collecting world has become far to anal about packaging.
Sure, original package is super important for value sake but I think the most important thing is that you have it and its in good condition. Great if its sealed but we're talking about a piece of tape here for god's sake! I have overheard many a parent/collector with their children in the toy store saying something to the effect of "..it will be worth more if you keep it in it's package..". Jesus!, can't even play with what few cool toys come out these days!
For many years I've felt really sorry for the kids growing up these days whose childhood, between their usually ill informed parents putting these types of scares into them and the scalpers and the like cleaning off the shelves of what few nice toys come out, pales in comparison to any previous generation. (with relatively equal buying power of course).
Lets face it, with the emphasis these days on pristine packaging the future of todays toys for resale will likely include a vast majority of toys in their original packaging with few other examples. This will lend itself to a market with a significantly narrower range of values anyway.
As an aside, I do take a slight detour when it comes to kids. The value of something usually comes from fond memories of using the item in some capacity or displaying it. Let your kids open their toys, keep the package for them if you want to. Collectors cannot be created, scalpers can! If your child wants to follow in your footsteps they will, not because you tell them to but because they see the enjoyment you derive from collecting.
I think the answer depends on a few things: the age of the toy, the ability to successfully open the toy without major package damage, and the period of storage.
Elle.
Question:Hi!,
Can you give me some history on Homer Laughlin china pieces? I have plates, bowls and even a bedpan.
Answer:The Homer Laughlin China company began production as Laughlin Brothers Pottery in Ohio in 1874 (please note that this date is referenced as 1870, 1871 and 1874 depending on who you ask. My best pottery specific references list it as 1874) and incorporated as Homer Laughlin China Company in 1896. Another plant was built in West Virginia in 1905 followed by the eventual closing of the Ohio plant. The plant continues to produce to this day.
Elle
Question:Are you familiar with Laffun Head spit faces that came out in the 70's? They hang on the wall and spit water and laugh when you pull their tie. They were made by BiBi products. I am at wit's end trying to locate these things and I never know exactly what category they would be in when doing a search!
Thank in advance for your assistance. It is greatly appreciated!
Jim
Answer:Hey Jim!
I am indeed familiar with these and I even had one myself in the 70's as did a couple of my friends. They were hard plastic faces on plaques with a rubbery tongue. They would spit (via a brass tube under the tongue) when you pulled their bow tie or scarf. Usually they were faces of super scary old or way to happy fat people. You appear to have more than enough information to do a few inquiries on foot or via the Web.
Ill keep my eyes peeled and funnel future finds through Funk & Junk® who, I understand, has posted a fixed request (update: now replaced by "want list" and no longer posted) for you to make it easy to check
Elle
Question:I have a set of 4 Playboy tankards in the original mailing box. Never used, in original wrappers. They are metal with glass bottoms and the bunny etched on either side. Mailed via UPS from Playboy Ent. Inc. in Chicago on Jan 3 1978.
Answer:Hi Gail!
Though there are still a lot of these steins out there they are getting harder to find. Separately, each mug sells for about $15 in good condition. Funk & Junk® usually prices theirs at $12.
Elle
Question:Hi. I have a rather kitschy light blue glass Greek lekythos with Greek temples and various Greek philosophers painted on the sides. I've always wondered what originally came in it. On the bottom is imprinted the statement "Federal law forbids use or re-sale of this bottle" with a serial number of some sort. Was it possibly an alcoholic beverage container?
Thanks! Love your site and shop.
Timo.
Answer:Hey Timo!,
I think you have it right. Your bottle is likely an Ouzo (Greek liquor) bottle and probably from the late 60's or early 70's when these glass bottles were most popular and prevalent.
Elle
Question:How can I price some Royal Doulton Toby Mugs?
Thankx
Bob
Answer:Hey Bob!,
Prices do range widely for these mugs/jugs. It is not unheard of for some of the better ones to hit $500 or more though most are considerably less.
As you appear new to the game of research, make sure you read my ramblings regarding the proper use of price guides. Further, if your going to sell them you might want to read more of my thoughts about how much you can expect to get.
You items are easily identifiable so your research should go very smoothly.
Lastly, if you get a chance, try to visit some local reputable dealers to see how the prices appear in your area.
Elle
Question:Dear Elle,
I have many old Avon perfume bottles. my question is do I save them or do I donate to salvation army to make room in my attic? They are probably from the late 60's and the 70's I do not know if they are worth anything. Please help!
thanks,
Lots of readers!
Answer:Hey Guys!,
I hope no one minds but I'm going to address all of the current Avon value request in one message since, with few exceptions, most pieces are in a similar range of values. The questions generally follow the above format which was submitted by Kim. I'll end with an answer to Michael regarding his chess set as his question is a little more specific.
Sub Question:Hi, I have the complete set of AVON'S chess men I bought these almost twenty years ago. As far as I know Avon never put out a board for them at least none that I am aware of. any way I have two questions is there a board out for them if so where can I buy it and my second question is how much is the set worth now. all pieces are in original boxes never used and still have there after shave and hair tonic in them all are in mint condition.
Sub Answer:I, too, am not aware of an accompanying board with these pieces and It makes sense that one was not offered as most of there items hold Avon products.
If I'm not mistaken, there are 32 pieces in a chess set (16 for each side, 8 of which are pawns). Though you don't mention their omission, I'm surprised they made pawns.
Elle
Question:Did the Pepsi-Warner Brothers 16 oz. character glasses (Funk & Junk's® #8239 - 8245) come in both black and white lettering on every glass or just select ones?
Thank you for your response.
Karen
Answer:Hey Karen,
The Pepsi/Warner brothers 16 oz. glass series actually has many variations.
Elle
Question:Hi, I have an old Smurf wallet. It is in perfect condition and I know it is old. The wallet is all black, and pictures an original Smurf sitting down near his mushroom home, with grandpa Smurf pointing at him. I don't know anything else about it really, Could you tell me anything about this, and a price range that it might be worth?
Answer:Hi!,
Sounds like a great wallet and its probably made in 1982 or 1983 though old Smurf stuff dates from the late 70's to mid-80's.
I have found that most of the wallets from the 70's on are bought to be used (albeit lovingly).
Smurfs are really popular right now as the group that grew up with them (late 70/80's) has some buying power now.
Elle
Question:I have two RCA Victor LPs. One is Original Music of The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and the second is More Music from The Man from U.N.C.L.E. They are from 1965 and 1966 respectively. The edges are a little ragged but the albums are in relatively good shape. Especially the second one. Could you tell me what they are worth, if anything?
Thanks.
Answer:Hey Dave,
Sure!, there worth something.
Elle
Question:I have reels of antique 8MM cartoons such as Felix the Cat, Little Black Sambo and NUMEROUS Disney films all in their original boxes. Could you please give me some information on the value of these items and some links to who would be interested in purchasing them from me?
Keeya
Answer:Hey Keeya,
Last question first: your films are potentially collectible, and therefore sellable, to a few groups of collectors.
Elle
Question:I have come across a ceramic or chalk lamp. The base is about 18" in length and is a red pillow. On top of the pillow is a white poodle from base to top it is about 14". The poodle has a red collar on. The stem of the lamp comes out right behind the poodles head from the back. Just about in the center of the dog. Any info on this appreciated. Is it worth anything?
Thanks Amy
Answer:Hey Amy!
A number of manufacturers made Poodle lamps when they were most popular in the 50's and early 60's.
Elle
Question:I'm looking for a Howdy Doody character watch? Is there such a thing available? How can I find out?
Kim
Answer:Hey Kim!,
How can you find out?, ask me!
There is indeed a Howdy Doody character watch. Actually, there are at least 4 that I'm aware of!
Elle
Question:Have an old cap gun that bears the name "TEXAN JR." and on the inside of the chamber it says " HUBLEY LANCASTER PA. MADE IN THE USA" underneath that inscription it says, "250c" and "Pat.Pend." Any idea of its worth??
Teri
Answer:Hey Teri!,
Believe it or not, all your dilegance still doesn't give me enough information to absolutely nail down your request. The reason? - there are at least 15 Texan Jr.s put out by Hubley!! No fault of you own and I really appreciate the attempt to fully describe your item. More questions would get answered if everyone followed suit.
Elle
Question:Tell me a little about my Elvis Presley Silver Spoon Enscribed in "Truly Yours" English 1970's.
Answer:Hi Dune!,
This is just one of the many, many, MANY! items released shortly after 1977 when Elvis died. Many companies jumped on the bandwagon upon Elvis's death and made everything from Liquor containers to playing cards.
Elle
"FUNK & JUNK" IS A REGISTERED SERVICE MARK.
"FUNKY J. MONKY" AND
IT'S CORRESPONDING MONKEY IMAGES, "FUNK YOU" AND "COOL STUFF FOR COOL
PEOPLE AT COOL PRICES" ARE SERVICEMARK PROTECTED ITEMS.