McCoy pottery a favorite

COLLECTING

Q: I recently purchased four pieces of McCoy pottery at a yard sale. In addition to a large mixing bowl, I bought a pitcher with matching mug, and a cookie jar shaped like a strawberry. I spent a total of $35 for the four pieces and hope it was a good deal. — Becky, Little Rock, Ark.

A: Although I have several guide books for this type of pottery, my personal favorite is McCoy Pottery by Mark F. Moran, published by KP Books. Your strawberry cookie jar was crafted during the 1950s and is valued in the $80-$100 range, per Moran. It sounds like you made an excellent buy.

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Q: I have a print dated 1892 entitled “Columbus on His Return.” Although it has stains and several small tears, it is in fairly good condition. It was published as a supplement of the Daily News in New York. Does it have any value?

A: Probably not very much. Even though your print is more than a century old and interesting, it remains a page from a newspaper that is of less than desirable quality. I would suspect it might be worth about $50 to a collector.

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Q: I have a 16mm movie projector with several films, all silent. The projector is hand-cranked, and the films feature older stars such as Charlie Chaplin. Where can I market it? — Bob, Dubuque, Iowa

A: Richard Alan Davis is a collector and expert of older film memorabilia and might be able to help you. Write to him c/o Bijou Dreams, 9500 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD 20814.

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Q: I have several Currier & Ives prints. Who can appraise them for me? —Stephanie, Gulfport, Miss.

A: Donald J. Bruncker is an expert who can help you. Write to him at Bardon Antiques, 37 August Lane, Hicksville, NY 11901. George J. Cohenour buys and sells original Currier & Ives lithographs. His address is 4301 Beaumont Road, Dover, PA 17315.