Tokay pottery pieces introduced in the 1950s

Dear Collector: Could you tell me about these vases marked “Tokay, USA?”

Hull Pottery of Crooksville, Ohio, introduced a new line of art ware in the 1950s, which they designated Tokay. Their previous products featured soft pastels and matte finishes, while Tokay (along with Tuscany, which employed the same forms) had a hard, shiny glaze and a palette of fewer colors. Your set of cornucopia vases should be valued at $50 to $60 for the pair, and the basket is worth $25 to $35.

Dear Collector: I have an uncirculated 1935C dollar bill.

Your blue-seal Silver Certificate, just as it came from the mint, is listed in one price guide at $75.

Dear Collector: Enclosed is a picture of my Belmont radio. Can you tell me when it was made and what it’s worth today?

Looking like something out of a Flash Gordon movie of the period, your circa 1939 model 635 radio epitomizes the art deco styling favored by this Chicago-based manufacturer. In working order, value could be over $300.

Dear Collector: I’ve been picking up Hot Wheels cars since childhood, without consciously intending to assemble as large a collection as I have today. Can you suggest an illustrated book on the topic?

There must be almost 2,000 photos in “Hot Wheels Variations: The Ultimate Guide” by Michael Zarnock (Krause, 2004, $29.99). Along with prices and descriptions, this is a very comprehensive reference book.

Dear Collector: How old is this Beswick Ware platter? I was told that a family member brought it over from England generations ago.

The earliest date I have on your earthenware piece is 1936, which was when John Beswick Ltd. was established in Staffordshire.

Dear Collector: A friend offered to give me an old roulette wheel that he says came from one of the first casinos in Las Vegas. He doesn’t want any money for it, but since I’m strapped for space, I wonder if it’s worthwhile to take in someone else’s junk.

As the saying goes: “One man’s rubbish is another man’s riches.” Items relating to gambling are hot; free items relating to gambling are even hotter. Spin the wheel, what have you got to lose!

Dear Collector: I own a Madame Alexander nurse doll in the original box. It is like new. What is it worth?

Even though they made their first doll in 1912, it was not until 1928 that sisters Rose and Beatrice Alexander adopted the name by which their world-famous company would become known. Assuming that your doll is a vintage one, its present value could exceed $500 — even more if you still have all the accessories.

Dear Collector: Is there any benefit to donating old articles to nonprofit groups such as museums and libraries?

Not only do you guarantee the ongoing existence of your donated items, but you can also claim a tax deduction.

Dear Collector: What do you say to readers who ask for suggestions on what to collect for investment purposes?

Buy savings bonds!

Recommended reading: “Garage Sale & Flea Market Annual” (Collector Books, 2004, $19.95). “Official Guide to Coin Grading and Counterfeit Detection,” edited by Scott A. Travers (House of Collectibles, 2004, $19.95). “Standard Catalog of Sports Memorabilia,” edited by Bert Lehman (Krause, 2003, $24.99).