Red Wing jug carries some value

Dear Collector: What can you tell me about this old Red Wing jug?

Located in Red Wing, Minn., this pottery was in operation from 1878 to 1969, but it’s the years after 1909 that saw them using the name of their selling agency, “Union Stoneware,” stamped onto this “shoulder” jug; an anatomical reference which describes the transitional ridge near the top. Collectors seem to prefer crocks, jars and jugs bearing advertising; placing a premium on their price. On today’s market, your stoneware is worth $75-$150.

Dear Collector: I have a Disney Cinderella watch, circa 1950s. It needs a new band and stem. Would it be worth my time and expense to have it repaired?

Between 1950 and ‘58, there were at least four versions of this character wristwatch made by several companies for Disney. Average working order value on any of these types is about $40. It would cost you almost as much to have yours fixed, so you’ll have to decide whether it’s worth the cost and effort.

Dear Collector: My uncle, serving with the 101st Airborne during WWII, saw a German plane crash. Entering the cockpit, he came into possession of the pilot’s watch and this 500,000 Reichsbanknote. Was this money a year’s pay for the pilot?

When issued in 1923, this note was able to purchase about 500 loaves of bread. By 1925, due to the hyperinflation that afflicted Germany, its purchasing power had fallen to five loaves. I think the German flyer carried this as a good luck piece – though in his case it apparently wasn’t effective!

Dear Collector: How much is a “Patty Duke” game worth? I got it for $2.50 at a yard sale.

Your 1963 Milton Bradley game, based on Patty’s television show where she plays identical cousins Patty and Cathy Lane, is listed in one price guide for $35.

Dear Collector: My wife’s uncle bought this Boris Karloff record years ago. Since it has never been opened, is it worth a lot?

It’s true that records still sealed in plastic are worth much more than those which have been removed from their original packaging; in the case of your 1963 Mercury LP “Tales of the Frightened, Volume I,” value is only about $35. However, if the wrapping had been removed, and Karloff signed the album cover, then its value would jump to over $200.

Dear Collector: What is my Popeye drinking glass worth?

Your tumbler was marketed in 1936 by retailer J.C. Penney Co. Current value, depending on condition, is between $100 and $150.

Dear Collector: A friend told me that old sheet music could be worth a lot of money. What do you think?

The song in question, “Let Me Entertain You,” composed by Stephen Sondheim and Jule Styne, is from the 1959 movie “Gypsy.” Your copy is worth just $5.

Dear Collector: Please tell us how much this Philco radio is worth, and when was it made?

Somewhat resembling a futuristic bus or truck, this 1953 tabletop Model 563, in red plastic case, has a value of $150.

Dear Collector: You have mentioned that you’re not an appraiser, yet you still tell readers how much their antiques are worth. How do you do this?

I quote “fair market value,” an estimate obtained by researching the same or similar items.