Soft, squeezable rubber toys were a new, amazing toy just after Charles Goodyear perfected the vulcanizing process and patented it in 1844.
In 1832, toys of soft, pliable materials similar to rubber were made. They had comical, stretchable faces. In 1850, there were many store ads selling India rubber toys such as balls, rattles and doll heads.
The first rubber squeak toys were made about 1860, but the squeak toys found by collectors today were popular in the 1930s and after. By then, the rubber quality was better and could be painted without flaking. The soft toys were made to squeak when squeezed. Most were shaped like cartoon characters or children and were not marked.
The ones bringing the best prices today are marked “Rempel.” Other makers were Sun Rubber and Edward Mobley Co. Prices range from $200 for Rempel rarities to a few dollars for unmarked toys at yard sales. Prices remain low and real bargains can be found at flea markets.
Yes. The Nelson McCoy Pottery Co. of Roseville, Ohio – better known simply as McCoy – made dozens of pottery lamp bases in the 1950s. Most are marked “McCoy USA.” Collectors pay $40 to $400 for them today, depending on style, condition, color and size. McCoy was in business from 1910 to 1990.
We recently purchased a silver-plated tea set at a local thrift store. The pieces – a teapot, sugar bowl, creamer and tray – are marked “Superior Silver Co.” We have been unable to find any information about this company. Can you help?
We can understand your confusion. Silver marked “Superior Silver Co.” was actually made by the Middletown Plate Co. of Middletown, Conn., or its successor, International Silver Co. of Meriden, Conn. Middletown Plate Co. was founded in 1864 and was one of the oldest firms to become part of International Silver, founded in 1899 when several New England silver manufacturers joined forces. Both companies used the “Superior Silver” mark on lower-priced merchandise.
Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.
“My One and Only Highland Fling” sheet music, by Ira Gershwin and Harry Warren, 1949, $25.
Depression-glass salad bowl, Cloverleaf pattern, green, 7 inches, $115.
McKee glass spice set, Roman Arches design, jade green, 4 inches, 14 pieces, $140.
Green Ghost board game, glows in the dark, Transogram, original box, 1965, $200.
Irish Belleek vase, Shamrock pattern, urn form, two handles, 1955, 8 inches, $310.
Teco pottery chamberstick, angular handles, green matte glaze, gray highlights, 21/4 x 5 inches, pair, $585.
Little Elf coffee tin, image of elf carrying tray, Bursley and Co., Fort Wayne, one pound, $670.
Irish sterling-silver creamer, helmet shape, molded grill, waved rim, Dublin, 1750, 5 inches, $1,440.
Barbie “Color Magic” doll, midnight and ruby red, long reddish hair, diamond-print swimsuit in psychedelic colors, matching headband, Mattel, 1966, 11 inches, $1,900.
George III window seat, mahogany, padded seat, out-scrolled arms, tapering square legs, spade feet, 30 x 49 x 14 inches, $3,120.
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