May 10, 2002 By Charles Mather 3 min read

Q. Can you list prices on TV character collectibles? – Janice, Biloxi, Miss. A. Television character merchandise began appearing on the market in the late 1940s. Here are some values on popular sought prices: A-Team, part hats, set of 4, 1983, $10; All in the Family, pinback button, Archie Bunker for President, 1970s, $15; Beverly Hillbillies, lunch box, steel, $175; Bonanza record, Ponderosa Party Time, 1968, $18; Charlie’s Angels, doll, Kate Jackson, Mattel, 1978, $50; Donny and Marie, coloring book, 1973, $50; Dukes of Hazzard, plate, Melmac, photo with label, 1981, $20; Flintstones, figure, Fred, Bamm-Bamm, 1970, $75; Laugh-In, brunch bag, vinyl, 1968, $75; Mighty Mouse, figure, Dakin, 1970s, $50.

Q. Can you discuss animated cap pistols? – Charles, Greensboro, N.C.

A. These cast-iron playthings, manufactured by the J. and E. Stevens firm of Connecticut, were the absolute rage of the 1880s. They were made in the shapes of numerous animals and figures, and a simple pull of the trigger fired the paper caps and set the subject matter into motion. They are in the same category as cast-iron banks of the period. Painting or restoring will lessen the value. Value guide: Sea Serpent, cast iron, Stevens, 1890, $950.

Q. Can you place a blue on my signed photo of Jimmy Durante? – Al, Bethesda, Md.

A. Born in New York City in 1983, Jimmy Durante was one of the old-time show business troopers with made the transition into television. He really made his debut as a piano player at Coney Island about 1910. He also was successful in vaudeville clubs and radio. His raspy voice with a heavy Bronx accent is unforgettable to those who loved him. He had his own program on television between December of 1959 and August of 1961. His frequent appearances on other major shows were always enjoyed by his fans. Your photo is valued at $50 today.

Q. What are considered “footmen?” – Leslie, Cambridge, Mass.

A. Known since the 18th century and still considered standard fireside equipment during the Victorian era, these four-legged trivets were usually made of brass or iron. They had straight back legs and cabriole front legs, providing the necessary support for the top piece, which was elaborately pierced on the finer specimens. The footmen stood by the fireplace to hold various household items, including a kettle or hot pan, or was an auxiliary piece for use alongside the dining room table. Value guide: footmen, brass pierced top, 1860, $600.Current Prices

– Projector, Bell and Howell, 16mm, sound, $350.

– Carnival Glass, Star of David pattern bowl, ruffled edge, purple, $200.

– Wicker, photographer’s chair, Heywood Wakefield, fancy, original, $1,000.

Write to Charles Mather in care Herald-Standard at Crown Syndicate Inc., P.O. Box 99126, Seattle, Wash. or call 206-285-1888.