Question: How can I learn more about Pokemon items and their value? -- Marcie Johnson, Albany, N.Y.Answer: A new book that pictures Pokemon cards, games, figures and more -- all of which are pictured in color with their prices and a rarity guide -- is the 1999-2000 "Pokemon Collector's Value Guide" (LW Books; 765-674-6450). It is available in a 255-page edition for $12.95 postpaid, from Ace Enterprises, P.O. Box 59354, Chicago, IL 60659.
Question: How can I learn to identify patterns on Noritake dinnerware and find out the value of such china? -- Sarah Anderson, Long Beach, Calif.
Answer: Try the book "Noritake Dinnerware: Identification Made Easy -- With 2000 Price Guide," by Robin Brewer (Schiffer; 610-593-1777). It's available for $43.90 postpaid, from Ace Enterprises, P.O. Box 59354, Chicago, IL 60659.
Question: I have a German-made calculator that dates back to the 1930s. It measures 6 by 8 inches, is very heavy and is mounted on an oak board with metal-lined holes on each end where a top can snap on for carrying. The machine is stamped with the makers' name and address. How can I know what I have and if it is worth anything? -- Jack McPhetridge, Winslow, Ariz.
Answer: Write Guy Ball c/o The International Association of Calculator Collectors, 14561 Livingston St., Tustin, CA 92780-2618. Enclose a description of the machine stating any wording it has, and include a self-addressed stamped envelope for a reply or evaluation, or phone Guy at 714-730-6140 for calculator or IACC membership/newsletter information.
Question: Where can I write for information regarding current prices for old record albums?-- Marshall Bellock, Nanty Glo, Pa.
Answer: A new book that lists prices ranging from $20 and up for rock 'n' roll, blues, doo-wop, surf, new wave, psychedelic, alternative, jazz, classical and other styles of albums is the "Goldmine Record Album Price Guide -- 50 Years of Collectible LPs, 1940s-1990s," by Tim Neely (Krause; 715-445-2214). It is available in a 544-page telephone-directory-size edition, for $28.20 postpaid, from Ace Enterprises, P.O. Box 59354, Chicago, IL 60659.
Question: I have a large collection of classical records in mint condition. How can find out their value, and where can I find companies or individuals who might purchase them? -- Carmel Martin, Narragansett, R.I.
Answer: A selection of classical record albums can be found listed, described and priced in the above mentioned book.
It includes albums by the Boston Symphony, Chicago Symphony, Detroit Symphony, London Symphony, Eastman-Rochester, Festival Chamber, Halle Orchestra, Jascha Heifetz, Liberace, Minneapolis Symphony, and other orchestras.
Write Anita Gold, P.O. Box 597401, Chicago, IL 60659; enclose an addressed stamped envelope. Due to the high volume of mail, only a very limited number of letters can be answered personally, but priority will be given to those that include a copy of the column and the name of the paper it ran in.(C) Knight Ridder/Tribune News Service.