Dietz Sign

Q: What is the value of this C.N. Dietz Lumber Company sign? It’s made of 3/8-inch thick brass and measures 19 1/2 by 14 inches. It’s been hanging on our fireplace since we found it at a garage sale thirty years ago.   A: Charles N. Dietz (1853-1933) was the first student to enroll at […]

Pepsi Token

Q: I opened a roll of pennies at work and found a Pepsi token. On one side it says “Utilicese unicamente en vendedoras Pepsi-Cola.” There’s not much online about it and I was wondering if you knew more history behind it and how much it’s worth. A: The translation of the Spanish words on this […]

Turtle Match Box

Q: I’m interested in selling this cast iron turtle match box. It’s marked “Richmond Stove Co., Norwich, Conn.” It’s in very good condition. What is it worth? A: Before 1900, most kitchen stoves were heated by wood or coal. A match holder was kept nearby to light the fuel. The Richmond Stove Co. was founded […]

Horse Vehicle License

Q: I have this nickel-plated brass piece shaped like the number 2. I think it is a 1912 license for a one-horse vehicle. I would like to know more about this piece. Can you tell me why it is shaped like a “2” and who made it? A: This is a Springfield, Ohio, license plate […]