CAST IRON AUNT JEMIMA

Aunt Jemima wouldn't be too happy if she were around to inspect this old cast iron rendition. But collectors are just the opposite. All that wear and deterioration with age might as well be magnetic for the effect it has on them. Sure, it would be great if she were prettier, but the one thing that she does have is authenticity - her condition verifies it, and that means more than a pretty face produced in China. See her on the second floor.

DICE CUP/THROWER = TREASURE?

Maybe I'm crazy, but I love to find truly old items like this ancient leather dice thrower, or cup. This one could have been made prior to the War for Southern Independence, and for my money is definitely a small treasure. I believe the stitching is by hand - note the irregularity of the stitches. The leather is aged, oily and dirty. One has to wonder about the who, what and where of an item like this. If only it could talk...

I believe I would have added this little treasure to my book if I had had it back when I wrote it.

CANADIAN SILVER

Lately I have bought a few Canadian coins that have been in the possession of locals who acquired them during vacations or business trips. Though the USA ceased minting silver coins for circulation with the 1964 issue (though 40% silver halves were minted through 1970), Canada continued to produce and circulate its 80% silver coins through 1967, and even produced 50% silver coins in 1967-68. When considering buying or selling Canadian coins, it's advisable to check dates and issue to be sure you are aware of silver content. The 1965 Canadian dollar shown here (and the 1966) is composed of 80% silver and 20% copper, but those of 1967 may be only 50% silver.