Q: I bought my son a metal lunch box and thermos in the 1950s. It has a picture of Hopalong Cassidy on both the box and thermos, and they are in perfect condition. I thought that it was just junk and was going to give it to my grandchildren to play with, but my son said not to let them have it, it could be worth something. Who's right?
A: Your son wins this one. Find something else to amuse your grandchildren. It is currently listed in "Shroeder's Antiques Price Guide" at $385 in mint condition.
Q: I have a Coca-Cola tray with a picture of a young woman sitting on a dock.
She is wearing a sailor hat, has a fishing pole in her left hand and is holding a bottle of Coke in her right hand.
It measures 10 by 13 inches.
At the top of the tray are the words "Drink Coca-Cola Delicious and Refreshing."
When was it made and what is it worth?
A: Your Coca-Cola tray was made in 1940. The "Sailor Girl" tray is probably worth $125 to $175 in good condition.
Q: We have a jasperware teapot. It was made to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. The bottom of the teapot is marked "Wedgwood." It is royal blue with a white portrait in relief on either side. I have made inquiries locally and could not find it in the Wedgwood book.
Do you know what the value of it is in today's market?
A: A Wedgwood teapot similar to yours is listed in "Warman's Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide, 28th Edition," edited by Harry L. Rinker, at $240.
*
Book review: "The Collector's Encyclopedia of Flow Blue China," by Mary Frank Gaston (Collector Books), is clearly the definitive book on Flow Blue. There are more than 400 color photos of patterns, tips on collecting and 160 marks of English and non-English manufacturers.
She discusses the nuances and intricacies of the designs, and lists a diverse variety of objects other than plates. A separate price guide is included. A wealth of information just flows from this author in her book.
Letters with picture(s) are welcome and may be answered in th column. We cannot reply personally or return pictures. Address your letters to Anne McCollam, P.O. Box 490, Notre Dame, Ind. 46556.