Sep 6, 2002 By Charles Mather 3 min read

Q. I collect egg timers. Can you give some values? – Jo, Roanoke, Va. A. A small glass tube filled with sand attached to a novelty ceramic figure once could be found in everyone’s kitchen. It timed the cooking of a perfect soft boiled egg – 3 minutes. It also was used as a cost-saving measure in timing telephone calls. Cast iron, chalkware, tin, brass, wood and plastic can also provide a roosting place for the glass timer. Here are some current values: black chef with frying pan, Japan, $125; poodle dog, ceramic, Germany, $100; Bo-Peep, ceramic, Japan, $125; boy skiing, Germany, $75; Golliwog, bisque, England, $200; owl, ceramic, Goebel, Germany, $100.

Q. Can you discuss Haviland china? – Theresa, Berlin, Md.

A. It has been estimated that more than 60,000 chinaware patterns have been produced over the years. The firm was organized by David Haviland in 1840. The company found the suitable clay for their fine output in the Limoges district of France. There were several company backstamps used. “H. and C.” was used until 1890 as well as “Haviland, France” and “Haviland and Co., Limoge.” Theodore Haviland used his mark in the 1890s. During the war in 1941, the firm moved to America and “Theodore Haviland” or “Made in America!” marks can be found. Anything in a dinnerware set can run into the thousands, if complete. Cups and saucers are usually the first casualties with a set and a shortage of these will alter the value. Value guide: cup and saucer, $100.

Q. Would a box of old badges interest anyone? – Lou, Tacoma,Wash.

A. Badges have been a major instrument of identification since the mid-19th century. United States government badges use the eagle and federal shield as its design. Collectors do not mind some wear on a badge as this comes with age and many repros do exist. Most are made of a base metal plated in bronze, brass, copper, silver and gold. Special presentation badges made of precious metals are eagerly sought. Badges offered to famous people are also in demand. A D.E.A. badge given to Elvis Presley reached almost $10,000 at auction. State highway patrol examples are also wanted and can cost up to $1,200 each. Some states have outlawed the possession of certain badges.Current Prices

– Lamp, floor, Steuben, brown Aurene glass shade, $4,000.

– Mickey Mouse, wristwatch, 50th Birthday, Bradley, boxed, 1978, $350.

– Jewelry, cuff links, sterling silver band ebony, Lewittes, $65.

– Book, Iron Man, W.R. Burnett, Dial Press, author signed, $260.

– Silver, German, cake slicer, Gottfried Johan Boden, 1740, $5,000.

– Toy, Cement Mixer minitruck, Matchbook, $50.

– Advertising, Hires Root Beer, self-framed tin sign, with kid, $1,750.

– Finger Bowl, glass, Daisy and Button pattern, blue, $35.

Write to Charles Mather in care of the Herald-Standard at Crown Syndiate Inc., P.O. Box 98126, Seattle, Wash., 98199 or call 206-285-1888.