Question: Where can I find information and the value of a counter-top mechanically working slot machine made by the "Watling Manufacturing Co., 153-159 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago, Ill. USA" according to a metal plate on the lower right front?
- L.E.P., Pasadena, Texas
Question: Where can we find old-fashioned penny candy and peanut vending machines suitable for our recreated (rec room) country store?
- Ben Jackson, Decatur, Ill.
Answer: The value of a Watling slot machine depends on which model it is, its condition and whether it's a stimulator type, which paid out in merchandise - that's usually worth between $1,000 and $1,200 - and one that paid out in cash - that could be worth several thousand dollars, according to slot machine buyer and appraiser Steve Gronowski, RR 7 Bateman Circle South, Barrington Hills, IL 60010. To check out or sell any slot machines, write Steve and state its condition along with any numbers or wording it has; enclose a photo and a self-addressed stamped envelope for reply, free evaluation or highest offer.
Question: My father (who I just got to meet after 43 years) has a lot of "real" train items he collected through the years. Is there a book I can get him as a gift, that tells the value of such items?
- Jill Haynes, Rensselaer, NY
Answer: A terrific book with hundreds of photos and thousands of listings with current values for railroad collectibles is the "Railroad Collectibles Price Guide" by Stanley Baker. It is available for $16.95 postpaid from Ace Enterprises, P.O. Box 59354, Chicago, Ill. 60659.
Question: I have an RCA Radiola model AR-36, which measures 71/2 inches wide, 9 inches high and 27 inches long. It works, is in mint condition and has a separate speaker. I'm sure it was purchased by my dad in the 1930s. Where can I find information on this radio and its value?
- L.R. Donato, Cheektowaga, NY
Question: I have a cherry or mahogany console radio with the name Capehart on the dial. Is there a book I can consult, or source I can contact, to find out more about it and its value?
- Lisa Fenner, Lexington, KY
Answer: To check out or sell old radios, write Barry Janov, 2454 Dempster St., Suite 416, Des Plaines, Ill. 60016; enclose a photo or complete description of what you have and a self-addressed stamped envelope for a reply or offer.
A good book is the 4th edition of "Collector's Guide to Antique Radios - 1997 Values" by Marty and Sue Bunis. It is available for $20.95 postpaid from Ace Enterprises, P.O. Box 59354, Chicago, Ill. 60659.
Question: I have a number of old canning jars purchased in the 1920s and '30s or possibly earlier. How can I find out what they're worth?
- Barbara Emley, Salt Lake
City
Answer: To find out everything you want to know about such jars and their value, write the FJN Publishers Inc., The Fruit Jar Newsletter, 364 Gregory Ave., West Orange, NJ 07052; enclose $14 for an annual subscription to this monthly newsletter.