Freelance
By LARRY COX
Question: I love flea markets and go to at least one each weekend. As you probably know, there’s no rhyme or reason as far as prices are concerned, and sometimes it’s difficult to know if a certain item is a good bargain. Is there a general reference book you can recommend? – Paul, Tucson
Answer: One of the better references is Warman’s Flea Market Price Guide, edited by Ellen T. Schroy and published by Krause Publications.
Now in its fourth edition, this impressive guide includes nearly 600 categories, 1,200 photos of hot collectibles and prices that seem to reflect the market value.
The guide catalogs everything from action figures to typewriters and references other flea-market collectibles with descriptions and useful information.
New categories introduced in this edition include American art pottery, Bohemian glass, Buffalo pottery, Department 56, 1950s collectibles, opera glasses and Union memorabilia. The guide provides practical collecting advice with an emphasis on preparation, organization and family fun. It also explains where to find the best deals and serves as a directory for some of the top flea markets in the country.
This is an excellent resource to keep in the car, especially while traveling. More than a dozen flea markets in Arizona are referenced in the book, including three in Tucson. This delightful guide sells for $21.99 and can be found at most larger bookstores or ordered directly from the publisher, Krause Publications, (800) 258-0929.
Question: I had a cousin who worked for Enron during its glory days. She has a computer mouse pad that features the company logo. Is it worth anything? – Marian, Tucson
Answer: I found several dozen Enron items on eBay being offered for sale and think your cousin’s computer mouse pad is worth about $10. For some reason, the Enron coffee mug appears to be a hot item and is selling online in the $25-$35 range.
Question: I have a large barbed-wire collection that I would like to sell. It contains several hundred specimen, all classified and documented. Can you help me? – Tad, Oro Valley
Answer: L.W. Love is a nationally known collector of barbed wire, and he might be able to steer you in the right direction. His address is 1520 N. Buckner, Dallas, TX 75218.
Question: I have a bowl that was designed by Clarice Cliff. It was given to me as an anniversary gift, and I am curious to know about it. This is my first piece of Cliff pottery. – Susan, Tucson
Answer: Clarice Cliff was a designer for A.J. Wilkinson, Ltd., Royal Staffordshire Pottery, in Burslem, England. During the 1920s, her Art Deco bowls featured splashy colors and over-the-top designs. She continued to produce her earthenwares until the 1940s. Typical prices are $550 for a butter dish, $975 for a cracker jar and $650 for a bowl in her Bizarre line. Collectors should be aware that reproductions of some of Cliff’s designs have been spotted in Phoenix shops, so use caution when buying pottery purported to be original.
Question: I have a pile of older sheet music, mostly pop hits of the 1930s and ’40s. Where can I sell it? – Ellen, Tucson
Answer: One of the better clubs is Remember That Song, 5623 N. 64th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85301. Lois Cordey edits the group’s newsletter and can help you. A good dealer is Beverly A. Hamer, P.O. Box 75, East Derry, NH 03041. Two collectors are Wayland Bunnell, 199 Tarrytown Road, Manchester, NH 03103; and Lynn Wenzel, 15134 Airport Road, Nevada City, CA 95959.
Question: I collect early American copper pennies. Is there a club for other collectors who share my hobby? – Bill, Tucson
Answer: Rob Burress is president of Early American Coppers and even publishes a newsletter, Penny-Wise. His address is P.O. Box 15782, Cincinnati, OH 45215.
Do you have questions about your antiques or collectibles? Larry Cox has the answers. E-mail him at larrycox@tucson citizen.com