Posted from 11/05/05:
By Anne McCollam - Copley News Service
Question: This is a photo of my canister set, a breadbox and a rooster pitcher. They were made by Metlox Pottery in California. Each piece is marked with the shape of the state and the word "Poppytrail." I bought the set in 1951 and it's in very good condition.
I've always been partial to it and hope you can tell me what my set is worth.
Answer: Metlox Pottery was located in Manhattan Beach, Calif., from 1927 to 1989. Poppytrail is the name of a line of dinnerware and tableware that was decorated with colorful glazes and designs. The California state flower is a poppy and was the inspiration in 1936 for Metlox's trademark, Poppytrail. Your set is part of their California Provincial line that was introduced in 1950 and not to be confused with the later "Red Rooster" line. The colors of the rooster's feathers make the difference. California Provincial colors are dark green and burgundy. Your pitcher is rare and was only produced for a short time.
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The value of your set would probably be $600 to $700. That should give a collector something to crow about!
Question: I have enclosed the mark on the back of a hanging earthenware plate that is over 100 years old. Also included in the mark are the words "Ohwarzwald - Badeil" and the number "2212." The plate is decorated with a woodland scene of a stream and a mill. My father told me it was his mother's and he can remember seeing it hanging in his home when he was a small boy.
My plate is very precious to me and I would like to learn more about it.
Answer: George Schmider made your plaque. They have made earthenware in Zell on Harmersbach, Badenia, Germany, since 1907. Sometimes portions of marks are worn away or just not clear. The words "Ohwarzwald and Badeil" should be "Schwarzwald and Badenia." The woodland scene is the Black Forest and is in Schwarzwald, Germany. The number is a mold number.
Your plaque would probably be worth $75 to $125.
Question: I have an oak spool cabinet with four glass front drawers. There are two metal bail handles on each drawer. It stands 15 inches tall and 18 inches wide and is in excellent condition. On the side is a decal with a star and on the front are the words "Star Threads - Fast Colors."
An estimate of my cabinet would be appreciated.
Answer: Your spool cabinet has a crossover value. It would appeal to collectors of both sewing items and advertising objects.
Your cabinet was made around 1900 and would probably be worth at least $400.
Question: I have a music box that has been in my family for many years. The case is caramel color varnished wood and measures approximately 10 by 9 inches and 9 inches high. Inside the lid are a large label with the word "Symphonion" and a mountain scene with a lake, water flowing over a dam, and elves playing and dancing. On the side of the case is a wood handle crank. I also have six discs with a patent date of 1888. I would very much appreciate learning the value of my music box.
Answer: Symphonion was one of the leading manufacturers of music boxes in the late 1800s. Yours would probably be worth $1,200.
Address your questions to Anne McCollam, P.O. Box 247, Notre Dame, IN 46556. For a personal response, include picture(s), a detailed description, a stamped, self-addressed envelope and $15 per item (one item at a time).
- Copley News Service
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