Antique expert appraises local heirlooms
Nov 4, 2012
Antiques collector and seller Henry Callan brought funny stories and expert appraisals to the Knights of Columbus' Harvest Dinner. The husband and wife portraits above were made out of an early plastic from the 1850s and worth between $85 and $125. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
Made around the 1950s, this large wall hanging was worth $325-350, said Callan. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
Although this porcelain plate is a "limited edition," Callan joked "that means the factory was going night and day to make as many as they could." The 1976 Mother's Day plate was still worth between $25 and $35, he said. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
This handwoven Japanese basket was purchased at an antique store in Rhode Island for $18, but Callan said it was worth $125. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
A handmade "snapper" for gathering cranberries was estimated to be made in the 1860s. Callan said it was worth around $175 because it was a unique piece. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
Callan said this 1920s foot stool was "nicely upholstered" and worth between $175 and $200. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
This doll's body of kid leather made it one of the more valuable pieces on the table. Callan estimated that it was from the 1840s and worth $450-500. With a vintage wig added to it, the price would go up to $650-700. BY GEORGIA SPARLING
It wasn't quite the "Antiques Roadshow" but appraiser Henry Callan gave the Knights of Columbus an entertaining presentation on Saturday night.
Members of the group brought family heirlooms, attic finds and other pieces for Callan to view.
Callan, a resident of Sandwich with 40 years of appraising experience, peppered his appraisals with interesting stories that ranged from the history of various items to his time as a prison librarian.
Callan said he wasn't out to make a ton of money, but his life's philosophy was, "You make somebody happy, you make a little money. That's what it's all about."
View the photo gallery to see how much some of the antiques are worth!
