Chatty Cathy loses voice, value
Dear Collector,
I have in my possession a 1950s Chatty Cathy doll in her original outfit with wardrobe. At one time she would say something when the string in the back of her neck was pulled, but now she doesn’t talk. I am wondering what you can tell me about her value.
Cathy, made by Mattel between 1960 and ‘63, could be worth as much as $300 if she was still chatting. Your voiceless doll, though in otherwise good condition, is only worth $40 to $50.
Dear Collector,
I still have the Toshiba 6TP-309A radio my parents bought for my birthday in the late 1950s. Can you tell me anything about this radio?
Appearing on the market in 1959, your portable was part of the wave of Japanese pocket-sized transistors (remember when all radios were called transistors?) that with rock ‘n’ roll heralded a social change in America. Since most radios had the same basic features, it was only those with odd or attractive designs that now command top dollar. Your lower tier Toshiba, with all original packaging, is worth $75.
Dear Collector,
I am enclosing photos of three magazines I recently came across while preparing for a garage sale. Any value to them?
The most interesting one of the three, which also happens to have the highest value, is the 1933 “Spicy Stories.” Considered a naughty publication in its time, SS wouldn’t even be rated PG today. Because of its novelty factor, this issue is listed at $30.
Dear Collector,
Could you please tell me if this teapot marked “Majolica, Seymour Mann, MCMXCII” has any value?
The year 1992 is a bit too new for me to comment on. That’s the date that came up when using my nifty Roman numeral converter.
Dear Collector,
Could you please tell me what the object in these pictures is, and if it is of any value? Inside there seem to be little coils of very fine filaments like in a light bulb or heater. It has an old-fashioned electric cord and plug but no on/off switch.
The photos are just clear enough for me to see that you have a 1920s Manning Bowman table electric cigar/cigarette lighter. Your tobacciana collectible should be worth $40 to $50. Don’t plug it in if you have any concerns about the cord.
Dear Collector,
How old is my Elvis Presley hat?
Coinciding with Elvis’ 1956 breakout, I think your chapeau was made by Magnet Hat & Cap. Both the date and manufacturer’s name should be on a tag attached to the sweatband. Value is between $150 and $200.
Dear Collector,
Enclosed is a rough drawing I made of the mark from beneath an old cup and saucer which I believe was part of a porcelain set that belonged to my great-aunt. Please tell me the maker’s name, country of origin and date.
Credit the mark to the German factory of Friedrich Schwab sometime after 1919.