Over the years that I have been nonchalantly saving my pennies I tried to not let other coins get intermingled with the contents of this jar. Still, it happens and there were a few dimes and a nickel or two in here. Certainly less than a dollar so I will just eschew any errant final figure as to final total dollar value. The ability of pennies to shift around and occupy the actual volume is far greater probability than the skewed value a dollar’s worth of ’silver’ might cause.

The Penny Jug, The Mystery of What is it Worth?

(image by author)

I wish that I had weighed this now. It would have given a better descriptor of contents and a more accurate result of how much is actually in this jug. I always imagined a booth at the Fair with a ‘guess how many pennies are in this jar and win a prize’ scenario. Of course, the weight of the jar would not be revealed at such an event and the jar, whatever volume it was, would not be completely filled either. Just on general principle.

No way was I going to mule this heavy jar to the store as-is. I wanted to take it down in smaller increments. To that end, I used another smaller jar to transfer some portion into. Those automatic coin-machines are pretty neat; you drop your coins onto a perforated rack and press the “START” button, and you begin to sweep your coins into the maw of the machine. The perforated tray allows anything non-coin to drop safely out. Things like clothes lint, little wads of paper, paper clips (often, small dishes from office desk contains both paper clips and pennies.) The detritus-collector tray always shows what was dropped through and it looks pretty disgusting. I saw a very small copper coin that made it through the perforated tray; it was foreign. Maybe Polish, it was about half the diameter of a dime. It belongs to whomever cleans the machine now.

The machine will stall if it gobbles anything non-coin and this can cause the accurate counting of your coins to terminate. You may lose your money. Try to deposit the cleanest load of coins that you can.

Loading-up on Pennies

(image by author)

I decided to take more than just the small jar, so a plastic meal container joins the effort. As it is, this is a bit less than half the total volume of the gallon jug and still almost inconvenient to transport. But the effort will be rewarded. I needed some additional cash at the time for my son’s upcoming birthday presents and this would do quite nicely. I was surprised at how much was in this jar in total.

What you see in the smaller jar and the plastic container together was counted by the machine and it came to $22.42 (after the small fee that the machine extracts for the service.) Not too bad. This machine separates coins by value (size, thickness, weight, etc.) and tallies the total. It ejects a register receipt when you press the “finished” button. This is redeemable that day only towards grocery purchases or for cash payout at the Service Desk.

It may vary by store, city or other, but this particular location mandates that the receipt given be redeemed the same day. It cannot be saved for a future date. I suppose that this eliminates or reduces the chance of fraud or alternation of the printout.

As my Son would say, More Pennies!

Several days later I re-loaded the small jar and plastic container for the final run and with just a few handfuls remaining, bagged them in resealable freezer bags and took them all to be redeemed. This time the payout was $30.81.

How Much is a Gallon Jug of Pennies Worth?

This particular gallon jug of pennies came to a total of $53.23 but the actual amount might be different between the same size jug. Remember, depending upon how the pennies lay in the jug, the amount of other coins also present and counted, exactly how filled the jug is and of course in this particular case, the debited service fee that the coin-counting machine exacts your amount can and probably would vary.

If you have a jar or jug of pennies, what are you hoarding them for? Redeem them for money that you can more conveniently use. If the jug of pennies is a safeguard for the future still you can redeem them and deposit the money into a bank account. Stuff the folding money under your mattress. Either way, it will still be more accessible and convenient to use when you need it.

It’s a Wonderful Life Italian photobustas image courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries

Director Frank Capra and RKO Radio Pictures delivered the delightful It’s a Wonderful Life to movie theaters in 1946. Both original and reissue promotional material from this holiday classic are huge collector favorites, with the standard one sheet poster valued at over $6,000.

James Stewart and Donna Reed Star in It’s a Wonderful Life

Based on the short story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern, It’s a Wonderful Life was filmed at the RKO Ranch in Encino, California, during the hot summer of 1946. Written for the screen by Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett, Frank Capra and Jo Swerling, the movie features James Stewart (George Bailey), Donna Reed (Mary Hatch Bailey), Lionel Barrymore (Henry F. Potter), Thomas Mitchell (Uncle Billy), Henry Travers (Clarence), Beulah Bondi (Mrs. Bailey), Frank Faylen (Ernie), Ward Bond (Bert), Gloria Grahame (Violet Bick), H.B. Warner (Mr. Gower), Frank Albertson (Sam Wainwright), Todd Karns (Harry Bailey) and Samuel S. Hinds (Pa Bailey).

The film centers on small-town citizen George Bailey and his life in Bedford Falls. On Christmas Eve, a despondent George discovers that his business has an $8,000 deficit. He then makes the wish that he had never been born, with his guardian angel Clarence showing him the dire consequences of such a reckless request.

It’s a Wonderful Life opened in New York City on December 20, 1946. And although it lost $525,000 during its initial release, this charming slice of pure “Capra-corn” later found its audience, earning its holiday stripes as one of the world’s most beloved motion pictures.

It’s a Wonderful Life Original Movie Posters

Original posters from It’s a Wonderful Life are expensive, and are often the exclusive province of deep-pocketed collectors. The movie’s standard one sheet poster, picturing Jimmy Stewart tossing Donna Reed into the air, is always in demand. Measuring 27×41-inches, one stunning example preserved on linen in fine/very fine condition brought $6,572.50 at auction.

Other original 1946 posters of varying sizes are also available. They include the following, with auction result duly noted: insert poster, 14×36-inches ($5,078.75); half sheet poster, 22×28-inches style B ($7,170); half sheet poster, 22×28-inches style A ($6,572.50).

It’s a Wonderful Life Foreign and Reissue Posters

The various foreign-issued posters are also big with collectors. A 1956 reissue Italian photobusta poster titled La vita e’meravigliosa is valued at almost $500. The 1948 French poster, set in a dark blue background and picturing James Stewart doling out money during the famous bank run scene, is also attractive and can sell for over $600.

Other posters can be found from such countries as Spain, England, Argentina, Belgium, Poland and Australia. One Australian daybill poster, measuring 13×30-inches, sold at auction for $1,600.

It’s a Wonderful Life was later re-released in the United States, resulting in the production of additional posters. For those on a limited budget, a 1990 reissue poster can be acquired for around $50.

It’s a Wonderful Life Lobby Cards

RKO’s It’s a Wonderful Life produced the standard eight card lobby set in 1946. These colorful gems, measuring 11×14-inches, were displayed in movie theater lobbies in order to promote the film.

Because of the demand, It’s a Wonderful Life lobby cards are generally sold individually. The title card, considered by many collectors to be the most desirable, is expensive with one example fetching $1,015.75 at auction.

Other lobby cards and their auction results include the following: James Stewart, Donna Reed and Carl “Alfalfa” Switzer in the Charleston dance contest scene ($478); James Stewart romances Donna Reed after the dance ($493.54); James Stewart confronts Lionel Barrymore at the Bailey Building and Loan ($310.70); James Stewart and Donna Reed marry ($448.13); James Stewart turns down Lionel Barrymore’s job offer ($358.50): James Stewart courts Donna Reed ($1,434).

It’s a Wonderful Life Pressbook and Movie Stills

A big attraction is the It’s a Wonderful Life pressbook, which features the movie’s entire promotional campaign via sample posters, lobby cards and inside information. The latter features the nugget that it was Cary Grant who brought Philip Van Doren Stern’s story to the attention of RKO, who then bought the movie rights with Grant as the intended star. An uncut 1946 pressbook in excellent condition is valued at approximately $500.

Various promotional 8×10 stills were produced for the film. The 1946 originals can bring several hundred dollars each in excellent or better condition. 

It’s a Wonderful Life Movie Reviews and Advertisements

It’s a Wonderful Life was reviewed by a number of periodicals of the era. Some collectors pursue complete editions carrying these thumbs-up/thumbs-down critiques or feature stories. The hot issues include Life (12/30/46), Variety (12/25/46), Time (12/23/46), Newsweek (12/30/46), The New Yorker (12/21/46), Theatre Arts (2/47), The New York Times (12/23/46), The Nation (2/15/47), Commonweal (1/3/47), The New Republic (1/6/47) and Scholastic (2/3/47).

Clipped movie ads are also big with collectors. A full-page It’s a Wonderful Life advertisement can be found in the January 13, 1947, issue of Life. Dealers often price these at $15-20.

It’s a Wonderful Life Miscellaneous Movie Memorabilia

Check out these auction/set sale results for miscellaneous memorabilia:

• Collection of 30 signed typewritten letters from James Stewart to fan Virginia Heilman 1945-49, including one which reads, “It’s a Wonderful Life finally wound up and I’m off on a deep-sea fishing trip with Hank Fonda…” ($1,035)
• Original radio script for the 1947 It’s a Wonderful Life broadcast on The Lux Radio Theatre starring James Stewart and Donna Reed ($125)
• Keybook 8×10 b/w still featuring Stewart and Reed doing the Charleston at Beverly Hills High School ($334.60)
• 1963 Spanish reissue one sheet movie poster ($131.45)
• December 1989-January 1990 issue of Modern Maturity featuring It’s a Wonderful Life cover story ($10)
• The It’s a Wonderful Life Book by Jeanine Basinger, Alfred A. Knopf, 1986 ($20)
• Jimmy Stewart autographed vintage b/w photo ($262)
• Frank Capra signed 1941 movie document ($145)
• Donna Reed autographed vintage b/w portrait ($100)
• Lionel Barrymore signed one-page handwritten letter ($178)

“Merry Christmas, Mr. Henry F. Potter!” James Stewart shouts to the town miser.

Nice touch, but some fans prefer the Saturday Night Live version, where the angry citizens of Bedford Falls storm Old Man Potter’s mansion. Hee haw!

Vampire killer kit image courtesy Stevens Auction Company

The vampire culture has never been hotter, with Stephenie Meyer’s mega-selling Twilight series fueling much of the current rage. Along with vampires come vampire killer kits, with some antique models possibly dating back to the late 18th century.  

Vampire Killer Kits History

Although Irish writer Bram Stoker published Dracula in 1897, vampire mythology actually dates back several thousand years. Stoker’s Count Dracula is of a more recent vintage in the vampire historical saga, the nocturnal, blood-sucking Eastern European variety who owes its origins to the Far East.

Although no one is quite sure, some experts believe that vampire killer kits were available as early as the late 1700s. Other scholars, however, question that time line, arguing that such kits did not come into existence until after the publication of Stoker’s seminal 1897 novel. They were sold in Eastern European hotels, the theory goes, as souvenirs for tourists and other interested parties.

The American Deep South, a region prone to its own peculiar mythology, reportedly produced a small number of vampire hunter kits in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Anne Rice’s 1976 best-selling novel Interview with the Vampire, after all, does feature one undead creature, Louis, who hails from Dixie – New Orleans, Louisiana, to be exact.  

The Big Hoax: Professor Ernst Blomberg Vampire Hunter Kits

The biggest hoax in the field comes from the vivid imagination and forgery talents of Michael de Winter. In 1970, de Winter, who worked in the printing business and dealt in antique firearms on the side, issued his own homemade vampire hunter kit. He gathered the necessary ingredients – an old pistol, ivory crucifix, garlic powder, a wooden stake, special serum, etc. – and then packed them into a high quality Victorian walnut box, complete with his own Professor Blomberg antique label.

De Winter priced his ”Professor Blomberg Vampire Killing Kit” at 1,000 British pounds, where it eventually found a buyer. In time, other sellers copied de Winter’s design and label, leading to a small cottage industry in the vampire hunter kit field. Many also duplicated de Winter’s original error, mistakenly including silver bullets in the kit which, according to legend, are ineffective against vampires but deadly to werewolves and other hairy, Lon Chaney Jr. types. 

Vampire Killer Kits at Auction

In recent years, vampire killer kits at auction have made headlines, stirring the imagination of Dracula and Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans everywhere.  

• In 2003, Sotheby’s, the famed New York City auction house, sold a vampire killer kit for $12,000. Several days later, another kit brought a staggering $20,300.
• In 2008, Stevens Auction Company of Aberdeen, Mississippi, offered a vampire killer kit from the Jimmy Pippen estate. The winning bid was $14,850.
• Just recently, a vampire killer kit was offered for sale on eBay with an asking price of $35,000. The auction site pulled the listing, perhaps due to authenticity concerns.
• On Halloween, October 31, 2009, Stevens Auction Company offered yet another vampire killer kit, this one from the Port Gibson, Mississippi, estate of the late Miss Isabel Person. Housed in a rosewood case with mother-of-pearl inlay and containing such items as a prayer book, silver occult dagger, pistol,  cleaver, wooden stake, crucifix, holy water vials and those pesky silver bullets in a coffin-style box, this kit fetched $8,800.

“For one who has not lived even a single lifetime, you’re a wise man, Van Helsing,” Bela Lugosi tells Edward Van Sloan in Dracula (1931).

That’s because the good professor never left home without his trusty vampire killer kit. You know, the genuine article without the silver bullets?

Star Wars image courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries

Science fiction/fantasy theater lobby cards represent some of the finest collectibles in the movie memorabilia field. Artistic, colorful and chock full of Hollywood history, sci-fi/fantasy lobby cards can range in value from $5 to several thousand dollars.

Lobby Card History

Lobby cards – so named because they were displayed in movie theater lobbies to promote a film – have been around since the earliest days of the silent cinema. Measuring 11×14-inches and generally printed on heavier paper stock than posters, lobby cards feature individual scenes from movies.

Lobby Card Terminology

Basic lobby card terminology is as follows: 

• Title Lobby Card. As the name implies, this card features the title and top stars of a movie. It is often viewed by collectors as the premier card of the set.
• Lobby Card Set. Lobby cards were issued to movie theaters in sets of four, eight or ten cards, with eight being the standard Hollywood studio issue.
• Jumbo Lobby Card. Measuring an oversize 11×17-inches, jumbo lobby cards are special issues and were made for selected releases only.
• Reissue Lobby Card. These cards were reissued in connection with a movie’s re-release and can sometimes differ in design from the originals.
• Reproduction Lobby Card. Also called decorative lobby cards, these issues were made from the originals and have no collector value.

Top Science Fiction & Fantasy Movie Lobby Card Values

An entire galaxy of science fiction/fantasy movie lobby cards are available today. And although individual tastes vary, the following represent a good selection of desirable titles along with representative values from the 1920s to the 1980s.

Metropolis (Paramount, 1927)

 Director Fritz Lang’s beautiful, futuristic silent film is pure nirvana for movie fans and collectors. This title is strictly for the deep pockets crowd, with original material bringing stratospheric prices. An original lobby card picturing Brigitte Helm at the Yoshiwara Nightclub fetched $4,481.25 at auction.

The Bride of Frankenstein (Universal, 1935)

Elsa Lancaster is the reluctant bride, Boris Karloff the smitten groom and Colin Clive the matchmaker/scientist in this science fiction-horror movie classic. Values for Bride lobby cards can be “scary,” with one example picturing Karloff, Clive and Ernest Thesiger selling for $4,780.

The Invisible Man Returns (Universal, 1940)

The sequel to 1933’s The Invisible Man, this popular film stars Vincent Price and Cedric Hardwicke. A 1948 Realart reissue lobby card featuring Price, Hardwicke and Nan Grey sold for $203.15 at auction.

Them! (Warner Bros., 1954)

James Whitmore and James Arness hunt down giant ants in this sci-fi thriller from the Red Scare era. A complete set of eight lobby cards sold for $537.75 at auction.

20 Million Miles to Earth (Columbia, 1957)

William Hopper and Joan Taylor star in this wild tale of a Venusian creature who hitches a ride back to Earth. Seven different lobby cards brought a reasonable $77.68 at auction.

2001: A Space Odyssey (MGM, 1968)

Stanley Kubrick’s monumental tribute to space exploration is always a collector favorite. A set of eight 1972 reissue lobby cards brought $71.70 at auction.

Star Wars (20th Century-Fox, 1977)

George Lucas launched the blockbuster franchise with this classic science fiction film starring Harrison Ford as Han Solo. A set of eight lobby cards sold for $131.45 at auction.

The Terminator (Orion, 1984)

The Governator – Arnold Schwarzenegger – stars as a cyborg hit man on the prowl in 2029. A complete set of eight lobby cards hit a top bid of $203.15 at auction.

Sources

• Heritage Auction Galleries
• Learn About Movie Posters, by Ed & Susan Poole (iGuide Media, Inc., 2003)
• Movie Collector’s World

Image courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries

Dinosaur film posters can bring monster prices in the movie memorabilia field. A standard 1993 Jurassic Park one sheet poster is valued at $45 while a 1933 King Kong one sheet poster could be worth over $100,000.

Dinosaur Movie History

Dinosaur movies have been around since the earliest days of the motion picture industry. The first dinosaur film may have been The Prehistoric Man, a silent short made by the United Kingdom’s Urban Trading Company in 1908.

Since then, dinosaur movies have occupied every decade in film history. Their cinematic footprint is indeed huge, delivering such fare as The Lost World (1925), Unknown Island (1948), King Dinosaur (1955), Dinosaurus! (1960) and the Jurassic Park series.

Dinosaur Movie Poster Values

Although it’s a matter of personal taste, collectors can’t go wrong in pursuing the following ten standard 27×41-inch one sheet dinosaur movie posters. Some are super rare and very expensive, while others remain in the affordable column.

1. Jurassic Park (Universal, 1993)

Michael Crichton’s tale of an island amusement park where dinosaurs run amok was brought to the big screen by Steven Spielberg. Jurassic Park was the #1 box-office draw for 1993, grossing $357,067,947.

Poster tagline/auction result: “An Adventure 65 Million Years In The Making”/$45

2. The Land That Time Forgot (American International, 1975)

Doug McClure stars in this fantastic dinosaur yarn based on the novel by Tarzan creator Edgar Rice Burroughs.

Poster tagline/auction result: “The Adventure You Will Never Forget!”/$131.45

3. King Kong (RKO, 1933)

This landmark film stars Robert Armstrong and Fay Wray in one of Hollywood’s greatest cinematic triumphs. Who could forget the mighty Kong atop the Empire State Building, swatting at a squadron of marauding biplanes?

Poster tagline/auction result: None needed, as Kong is enough/$97,100

4. Godzilla (Trans World, 1956)

Raymond Burr stars in this classic Japanese import where a reanimated Godzilla trashes Tokyo because he can.

Poster tagline/auction result: “Incredible, Unstoppable Titan Of Terror!”/$1,792.50

5. One Million Years B.C. (20th Century-Fox, 1966)

Special effects by sci-fi maestro Ray Harryhausen and Raquel Welch in an itsy bitsy fur bikini are the highlights in this popular remake of One Million B.C. (1940).

Poster tagline/auction result: “Travel Back Through Time And Space To The Edge Of Man’s Beginnings…Discover A Strange World Whose Only Law Was Lust!”/$310.70

6. Son of Kong (RKO, 1933)

Robert Armstrong and Helen Mack return in this mellow sequel to 1933’s smash hit King Kong.

Poster tagline/auction result: None/$69,000 (style B)

7. The Lost World (20th Century-Fox, 1960)

Michael Rennie, Jill St. John and company meet up with some nasty dinosaurs on a lost South American plateau.

Poster tagline/auction result: “150,000,000 Years Ago Or Today?”/$21

8. Gorgo (MGM, 1961)

Bill Travers and William Sylvester head the cast of this dinosaur-run-amok movie directed by Eugene Lourie.

Poster tagline/auction result: “Like Nothing You’ve Ever Seen Before!”/$113.53

9. The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms (Warner Bros., 1953)

Nuclear testing awakens a prehistoric beast who then attacks New York City.

Poster tagline/auction result: “They Couldn’t Believe Their Eyes! They Couldn’t Escape The Terror! And Neither Will You!”/$1,314.50

10. King Dinosaur (Lippert, 1955)

Planet Nova is the setting for this low-budget entry that features plenty of phony dinosaur action. Bill Bryant, Wanda Curtis and Douglas Henderson head the cast in a movie shot at Griffith Park in Los Angeles.

Poster tagline/auction result: “You’ll Be Shocked! You’ll Be Stunned! You’ll Be Thrilled!”/$31

Sources

• Heritage Auction Galleries, Dallas, Texas
• Movie Collector’s World

Image courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries

The great Hank Williams (1923-1953) still reigns as one of country music’s most influential artists. Signed photos of Hank can fetch over $2,000, with other memorabilia ”cookin’” up a range of impressive selling prices as well.

Hank Williams Country Music Hall of Fame

Hiram King “Hank” Williams was born in Mount Olive, Alabama, on September 17, 1923. Rising through the grizzled ranks of country music, Williams eventually became both a storied singer and songwriter. The fabled “Hillbilly Shakespeare” scored eleven number one hits during his abbreviated career, including such gems as “Lovesick Blues” (1949), “Why Don’t You Love Me?” (1950), “Cold, Cold Heart” (1951) and “I’ll Never Get Out of This World Alive” (1952).

Suffering from alcoholism and drug addiction, 29-year-old Hank Williams died in the backseat of a Cadillac on January 1, 1953. Williams was later inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame (1961) and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1987).

Hank Williams on Sterling Records

Hank Williams’ recording career was short, spanning only six years. His first 78 rpm single was “Never Again”/”Calling You” (Sterling 201), released in January 1947. Williams scored three other singles in 1947 for the New York-based Sterling label: “Wealth Won’t Save Your Soul,” “I Don’t Care” and “Honky Tonkin’.”

The Hank Williams Sterling 78 rpm releases are rare, with records in outstanding condition valued at $200-450 each.

Hank Williams on MGM Records

Hank Williams’ first 78 rpm single on the MGM label was “Move It On Over” (MGM 10033), released on June 6, 1947. That was followed by a slew of other MGM singles spanning the years 1947-78. Among the issues: “Honky Tonkin’” (1948), “Lovesick Blues” (1949), “Hey Good Lookin’” (1951) and “Kaw-Liga” (1953).

Williams also recorded under the name “Luke the Drifter” beginning in 1950.

The most valuable Hank Williams MGM 78 and 45 rpm records come from the formative years 1947-55. When found in near mint condition, they generally sell in the $5-30 range.

Hank Williams Collectible EPs, LP Albums

Hank Williams EPs (extended play) records can be found on the MGM label. They’re popular with collectors, mainly because of their handsome picture sleeves, with the older EPs from 1952-54 selling in the $25-50 range.

Hank Williams’ first LP album was titled Hank Williams Sings (MGM E-107), released in 1951. Because of Williams’ early demise, most of his LP albums were subsequently released after his death using previously recorded or “lost” material.

Other Hank Williams early LPs include Moanin’ the Blues (MGM E-168, 1952), Memorial Album (MGM E-202, 1953) and Luke the Drifter (MGM E-203, 1953). The early MGM LPs carry a value of $50-100 in top condition.

Hank Williams Autographs

Along with Patsy Cline (1932-1963), Hank Williams is one of the most coveted autographs in country music. One of Hank’s signed 8×10 publicity stills recently sold at auction for $2,076.

Other autographed material can be equally expensive, with a Williams-signed 1949 Acuff-Rose royalty agreement bringing $2,629 at auction.

Hank Williams Memorabilia

Check out these auction prices for miscellaneous Hank Williams memorabilia:

• Hank Williams C.F. Martin guitar played on The Farmer Jim Show in 1950 ($23,900)
• Hank Williams autographed 1948 songbook ($2,031.50)
• Hank Williams 1950s acetate audiodisc ($478)
• Hank Williams 1950 Hemmelreich’s Grove concert poster ($1,912)
• Audrey “Mrs. Hank” Williams 1953 Hilltop Park concert poster ($448.13)
• Your Cheatin’ Heart 1964 six sheet movie poster starring George Hamilton as Hank Williams ($40)

Note: The 821 Entertainment Group in partnership with the Hank Williams Estate is planning a new Hank Williams biopic for the big screen.

Image courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries

The venerable outlaw biker film has been around since 1953 when Marlon Brando first roared across the screen in The Wild One. Posters from The Wild One, Easy Rider, The Cycle Savages, The Hard Ride and other biker movies are always big with collectors.

Outlaw biker movie posters are collected for their colorful, gaudy graphics, outrageous taglines and importance to motorcycle film history. And although it’s often a matter of personal taste, one can’t go wrong in pursuing the following ten original one sheet movie posters measuring 27×41-inches. Saddle up!

1. The Wild One (Columbia, 1953)

Marlon Brando and Lee Marvin play rival motorcycle gang leaders in this classic biker film directed by Laslo Benedek. When asked what he’s rebelling against, the leather-jacketed Brando replies, “Whaddya got?”

Poster tagline/auction result: “Hot Feelings Hit Terrifying Heights In A Story That Really Boils Over!”/$1,314.50

2. Easy Rider (Columbia, 1969)

Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper and a football-helmeted Jack Nicholson chopper down to the Mardi Gras in this freewheeling biker movie from the psychedelic sixties. Born to be wild, baby!

Poster tagline/auction result: “A man went looking for America. And couldn’t find it anywhere…”/$358.50 (style with Cannes Film Festival notation)

3. The Wild Angels (American International, 1966)

Peter Fonda, Nancy Sinatra, Bruce Dern, Diane Ladd and Michael J. Pollard raise biker mayhem in this box office sleeper produced and directed by Roger Corman. An added bonus: the appearance of Hell’s Angels, Venice, California, chapter.

Poster tagline/auction result: “Their credo is violence…Their God is hate…and they call themselves ‘The Wild Angels’”/$131.45

4. Motorcycle Gang (American International, 1957)

Steve Terrell, John Ashley, Anne Neyland and Carl “Alfalfa” Switzer (as “Speed”) head the cast in this ”keen” biker classic directed by Edward L. Cahn. Like wow, man!

Poster tagline/auction result: “Wild and Wicked…living with no tomorrow!”/$131.45

5. The Mini-Skirt Mob (American International, 1968)

Diane McBain as Shayne heads up her own female biker gang in this low-budget bruiser directed by Maury Dexter. A more accurate title: The Micro Mini-Skirt Mob.

Poster tagline/auction result: “They Play Around With Murder Like They Play Around With Men! They’re hog straddling female animals on the prowl!”/$133.84

6. The Rebel Rousers (Four Star Excelsior, 1970)

Bad-ass bikers Bruce Dern and Jack Nicholson harass square Cameron Mitchell in this largely forgotten movie shot in 1967.

Poster tagline/auction result: “They Laid Waste To The Flesh And Blood of America’s Daughters. Their creed: ‘If it feels good, do it!’”/$71.70

7. The Cycle Savages (Trans American, 1969)

Bruce Dern (again), Melody Patterson and Chris Robinson star in this bad biker exploitation flick first released in Sweden in 1969.

Poster tagline/auction result: “Hot Steel Between Their Legs…The Wildest Bunch Of The ’70s!”/$21

8. The Hard Ride (American International, 1971)

Robert Fuller plays a Vietnam vet in pursuit of Sherry Bain and an outlaw biker gang in this better-than-average film directed by Burt Topper. Look for “Baby,” the name of a customized bike.

Poster tagline/auction result: “Some Machines Are More Than Most Men Can Handle!”/$65.73

9. Hell’s Angels ‘69 (American International, 1969)

Tom Stern, Jeremy Slate, Conny Van Dyke, Sonny Barger and the original Oakland Hell’s Angels star in this wild picture from the heyday of biker films.

Poster tagline/auction result: “This Was the Rumble that Rocked Las Vegas! For a wild, wicked weekend and the deadliest gamble ever dared!”/$57.36

10. Chopper Chicks in Zombietown (Troma, 1989)

Jamie Rose, Catherine Carlen and Lycia Naff star in this comedy horror film featuring biker chicks versus the living dead.

Poster tagline/auction result: “They’re Looking For A Few Good Men”/$57.36

Democrat John F. Kennedy had “high hopes” as he ran for president against Republican Richard M. Nixon in 1960. Aiding JFK in his quest was a plethora of pins and other campaign material, much of which is avidly sought by collectors today.

JFK Campaign Pins

Political pins were still a major deal back in 1960. They were produced by both the campaign and outside organizations, such as labor unions, professional associations and civil rights groups.

Common JFK pins are still affordable, with values ranging from $5-10. Among the entries: “If I Were 21 I’d Vote For Kennedy,” “For President John F. Kennedy” and “Kennedy Is Best For Me.”

Rarer JFK presidential pins can be pricey, often requiring a substantial “campaign contribution” on the part of the buyer. Recent auction results for these rarities in top condition include “Shoe Workers for Kennedy” ($448.13), “Kennedy ‘60″ with no photo ($776.75), “Kennedy-Johnson” small jugate ($262.90) and “All The Way With J.F.K./Kennedy For President” ($107.55).

Another rarity to look for is the “Citizens for Kennedy Welcome Aboard” clear panel insert pin issued at a JFK Connecticut fundraiser. One near mint example brought $717 at auction.

Kennedy Election Night Press Pin

For super JFK collectors, the ultra rare “Kennedy Election Night Press” pin is the holy grail in the field. A word only entry (no photo), this simple pin is set in black lettering on a light greenish-beige background. Only several examples are known to exist, with one pin bringing $3,107 at auction.

JFK Campaign Posters, Brochures, Hats

Not too many JFK posters survived the campaign. One that did, a patriotic red, white and blue example touting “A Time for Greatness, Kennedy For President,” sold at auction for $310.70.

Tens of thousands of JFK campaign brochures were produced. One unique example, signed by Kennedy in green ink while on the campaign trail, brought $1,314.50 at auction.

Kennedy campaign hats, such as the straw versions worn at the 1960 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles, are valued at $50-100, depending on condition.

Frank Sinatra High Hopes JFK Record

For serious JFK collectors with a musical bent, a special 1960 recording of “High Hopes” by pal Frank Sinatra is a must. “Everyone is voting for Jack, ‘Cause he’s got what all the rest lack…’Cause he’s got High Hopes…” This promotional 45 rpm record, featuring “High Hopes”/”All the Way,” was not widely distributed in 1960 and was never sold in stores. A pristine example is valued at over $125 today.

Miscellaneous JFK Autographs, Campaign Memorabilia

The 1960 Kennedy-Johnson campaign machine churned out a vast array of miscellaneous memorabilia as well. Here are some examples, with winning bid noted courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries and R&R Enterprises Autograph Auctions:

• JFK handwritten notes on New York City’s Statler Hilton Hotel stationery outlining a 1960 speech on the Middle East ($2,987.50)
• Full-size Kennedy for President license plate, green lettering on white background ($298.75)
• JFK PT-109 Lucite paperweight given to all Kennedy delegates at the 1960 Democratic National Convention ($310.70)
• Unused Kennedy For President bumper sticker ($61)
• November 7, 1960, issue of Time magazine picturing “Candidate Kennedy” and autographed by JFK ($1,006)
• Kennedy-Johnson matching brass die made by Struppman & Co. New York City ($546.25)
• Artist’s rendition of Kennedy clipped from 1960 testimonial dinner program honoring California Governor Edmund G. “Pat” Brown signed by JFK ($1,655.29)
• John F. Kennedy 1960 PT-109 jewelry pendant ($35)
• John and Jackie Kennedy 1963 nodders from Pico Novelty Co. mint-in-box ($896.25)

The Wizard of Oz is huge with both movie fans and collectors. Find the right Oz artifact and it could be worth $500,000 or more!

Judy Garland Stars in The Wizard of Oz

Based on the book by L. Frank Baum, The Wizard of Oz was written for the screen by Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson and Edgar Allan Woolf. Directing the action was Victor Fleming, with uncredited assistance from Mervyn LeRoy, King Vidor and Richard Thorpe.

Heading the cast were Judy Garland (Dorothy Gale), Frank Morgan (Professor Marvel/The Wizard of Oz), Ray Bolger (Hunk/The Scarecrow), Bert Lahr (Zeke/The Cowardly Lion), Jack Haley (Hickory/The Tin Man), Billie Burke (Glinda), Margaret Hamilton (Elmira Gulch/The Wicked Witch of the East and West), Charlie Grapewin (Uncle Henry) and Clara Blandick (Auntie Em).

The Wizard of Oz Premieres in 1939

MGM’s The Wizard of Oz premiered in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, on August 12, 1939. The movie later made its  New York City debut at the Capitol Theater on August 17, 1939, where it garnered a big thumbs-up review by Frank S. Nugent of The New York Times.

The Wizard of Oz captured six Oscar nominations: Best Picture, Best Special Effects, Best Original Music Score (won), Best Original Song (”Over the Rainbow,” won), Best Color Cinematography, Best Art Direction.

Original The Wizard of Oz Movie Posters, Lobby Cards 

Because of its vaunted status, original The Wizard of Oz posters and lobby cards command top dollar today. An original 1939 one sheet movie poster (27×41-inches) can easily sell in the $35,000-45,000 range in nice condition.

Also available is the coveted 1939 insert poster (14×36-inches) which is valued at $30,000-40,000 in top condition. For those who want to save some money, the 1939 half sheet poster (22×28-inches) can be purchased for about half that at $15,000-20,000.

The Wizard of Oz produced a handsome lobby card set of eight in 1939. So named because they were displayed in movie theater lobbies, these colorful 11×14-inch cards are always in demand and are usually sold individually. Recent auction results include the following scenes: Dorothy wipes away a tear from The Cowardly Lion ($2,270.50), the Wizard departs for Kansas in a hot air balloon ($2,031.50), Dorothy and pals enter the Emerald City ($1,314.50) and the highly sought-after title card ($10,755).

The Wizard of Oz Pressbook, Movie Herald

Discerning Oz collectors look for the unusual. One such item is the interesting The Wizard of Oz pressbook, which contains the movie’s entire promotional campaign. Featured are sample magazine ads, movie posters and lobby cards. MGM spent $250,000 to promote The Wizard of Oz, and the studio’s pressbook is certainly worthy of that expenditure. One example in very good condition sold at auction for $3,107.

Another unusual collectible is The Wizard of Oz movie herald. Comprised of four pages, this rarity features the big headlines “The Mighty Miracle Show That Is The Talk Of America!” and “At Last It’s Here Biggest Sensation Since ‘Snow White’!” adorning the cover. One example in near mint condition sold in 2006 for $956 – considered a bargain by many Oz collectors.

The Wizard of Oz Reissued Movie Material  

The Wizard of Oz was subsequently re-released in the years 1949, 1951, 1955, 1964, 1972, 1989 and on, thus generating additional movie posters and other memorabilia. Reissued material from The Wizard of Oz’s first re-release can still be pricey, with a 1949 window card (14×22-inches) currently being offered for sale at $3,595. Similarly, a complete set of eight 1949 Oz lobby cards are available from the same dealer for $15,995.

Other reissued Oz movie material along with their auction results include the following: 1949 insert poster ($3,107), 1949 title lobby card ($7,170), 1955 insert poster ($597.50), 1960s Australian daybill poster ($167.30), 1972 one sheet poster ($95.60) and 1998 press kit ($65.73).

The Wizard of Oz Props and Costumes

Original props and costumes from 1939’s The Wizard of Oz are the holy grail in the field. One of the most valuable Oz artifacts ever to come up for auction was Bert Lahr’s The Cowardly Lion outfit, which sold for $805,000 at California-based Profiles in History.

Other auction results for Oz props and costumes include a “Winkie” guard costume ($115,000), Judy Garland’s blue and white gingham dress ($252,000), the Munchkin coroner’s hat ($34,000) and Garland’s ruby red slippers, one of four pairs known to exist ($666,000).

In August 2008, two “Winkie” guard pikes surfaced at a PBS Antiques Roadshow in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The prop weapons had been purchased by the owner for $595 from a California auction company in 1984. Collectibles expert Kathleen Guzman appraised the pikes at $15,000 each.

The Wizard of Oz Miscellaneous Movie Memorabilia

Check out these auction results for other 1939 The Wizard of Oz movie memorabilia courtesy Heritage Auction Galleries, Dallas, Texas:

• Sheet music, “Over the Rainbow,” Leo Feist Inc. 1939 ($32)
• Original 8×10 b/w publicity still, Judy Garland and Ray Bolger ($448.13)
• Three illustrated sheets of MGM stationery promoting The Wizard of Oz ($418.25)
• Ten original 1939 8×10 b/w publicity stills ($2,151)
• Pink autograph album page inscribed and signed by Clara “Auntie Em” Blandick ($717)
• Five 1939 deluxe b/w stills ($956)
• Cast photo signed by Ray Bolger ($107.55)
• 1939 jumbo window card ($4,780)
• Green autograph album page signed by Frank Morgan with a Tom Mix signature on the reverse ($262.90)
• Judy Garland and Toto contact proof 8×10 b/w glossy still from famed Hollywood photographer Clarence Sinclair Bull ($717)

We’re off to see the wizard!

The value of comic books can change depending on how long you have held on to it and at what quality you where able to preserve it. Comic books are in actuality novelty items that are significant icons of the time they where produced. In most cases comic books are even considered memorabilia, and these types of items increase in value as they age. 

There are a lot of comic books out there that now would cost more than ten times the price they were worth when they were first put up on sale. Comic books can create massive appeal and popularity and this may bring up its initial value. Take the Batman franchise for example: No one really had any idea that the fictional protagonist of one of DC comics’ Detective comics issues would become an iconic figure in today’s society. Batman has gone far beyond comics; it has been the theme of quite a lot of Hollywood’s most memorable action block busters and has made many television appearances as well. It is no doubt that the value of comic books that were printed during the early periods of the Batman franchise are now worth hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. 

Although it is true that comic books are like antiques that get more expensive with age, there are some factors to be considered when appraising or starting a comic book collection. Before you go and do some attic or garage treasure hunting keep in mind that not all comic books are worth a pretty penny. The value of comic books depends on several factors which cover quality in the sense of physical state and make. 

If the comic book you have never gained any popularity, in other words a comic book flop, then it probably is not worth anything more than what you initially spent on buying it. If it was successful however like Superman, Batman, Spiderman, and other iconic comic book titles then you may want to check on the issue number and the date it was published. The value of comic books rise to exponential levels if you have limited editions, or first prints (alpha editions) or signature publishes. 

A comic book will also cost more if the quality is pristine. The fewer amounts of dog ears, folds, creases, and discoloration the higher the value, Some collectors do not even read their comic books to preserve the value, they just buy it and stow it away somewhere safe where it can increase in value without any threats.

How much the value of comic books can increase makes it an interesting item to collect and make a hobby of. It is a great way of entertaining yourself and having an item of value as well.