Q: I have a couple of old cardboard needle “cases,” one that says “A&P” and one that says “Piccadilly Imported Needle Case.” Are there folks who collect things like this? Do they have any value?

A: People who collect sewing items or ephemera, which the dictionary defines as “something of no lasting significance,” might be interested in the needle cases. Collectors of advertising items would be interested in the A&P needle case. Most paper or cardboard needle cases sell for $10-$12 or less, but one with an interesting picture might bring more. Needle cases made of celluloid, wood, or metal bring the highest prices. A silver sewing case in the shape of a woman sold for over $300 a few years ago.