Items Popular on eBay: January 2020 Edition
**Headline:** The Value of a 1902 Antique Cast Iron Pencil Sharpener from James Dixon Crucible Co.
A 1902 antique cast iron pencil sharpener, crafted by the renowned James Dixon Crucible Co., can typically be worth anywhere between £50 to £200, depending on several factors. The value of these collectible items can greatly increase if they are in excellent condition, rare, or have unique features.
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**Factors Influencing Its Value**
1. **Condition** - A sharpener in mint or excellent condition, with no rust, chips, or missing parts, significantly boosts its value. - Even in good condition, with some wear but still fully functional, the item remains valuable. - In poor condition, with rust, damage, or missing components, the price will drop substantially.
2. **Rarity** - Limited production models or those with unique designs or patent markings are more valuable. - While the James Dixon Crucible Co. was a well-known manufacturer, specific models may be rare or sought after.
3. **Functionality** - Working sharpeners with smooth operation are preferred by collectors. - Non-functional pieces may be worth less, though still collectible as display items.
4. **Markings** - Authentic markings, patent dates, and original branding increase authenticity and value. - Documentation or historical provenance also adds to the value.
5. **Aesthetic Appeal** - Decorative or ornate designs tend to be more desirable. - Plain or utilitarian models may be less sought after.
6. **Market Demand** - Interest in vintage school supplies and antique desk accessories fluctuates. - Nostalgia and collector trends impact prices.
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**Summary**
| Factor | Impact on Value | |------------------|-----------------------------------| | Condition | Major influence | | Rarity | High rarity = higher value | | Functionality | Working pieces are more valuable | | Markings | Authentic marks increase value | | Design/Aesthetics| Ornate > plain | | Market Demand | Fluctuates, influences pricing |
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**Tips for Selling or Appraising** - Have your antique sharpener appraised by an antique dealer specialising in office or school memorabilia. - Clean the sharpener carefully without damaging its original paint or patina. - Provide clear photos and detail any markings or serial numbers. - Check auction results or online marketplaces (e.g., eBay, Etsy, auction houses) for comparable sales.
If you have a specific model or detailed photos, I can help provide a more precise valuation!
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**Additional Information** - The 1902 Antique Cast Iron Pencil Sharpener from James Dixon Crucible Co. measures approximately 8 inches x 7 inches x 7 1/2 inches tall. - A vintage 1907 Remington advertising poster for the Remington auto loading rifle is available. - The poster has slight staining and some loss to the surface, but both metal bands are present. However, there is slight separation of the metal band to the paper at the bottom portion of the poster. - Be aware that patent numbers on antique items indicate the date of the patent, not the date of manufacture. - The corn sheller is in almost perfect condition, with most of its original black paint. - This particular Taiyo Japan Blink toy robot likely works or can be easily fixed. - The toy robot is in pretty good condition, but requires some battery compartment cleanup and work to function correctly. - The sale of these items indicates a collector's market for unique and vintage agricultural tools and toys. - The highest price for similar objects found was for the Handheld Corn Sheller, while the Taiyo Japan Blink toy robot was sold for a lower price. - A unique Handheld Corn Sheller, Cast Iron Seed Farm Tool by Neumeyer, New York, sold for £2,725 on eBay. - The pencil sharpener is being sold as found. - The pencil sharpener is marked "JAMES DIXON CRUCIBLE CO. JERSEY CITY N.J. Pat. May 27, 1902 Another Pat. Pend." - Photos of the pencil sharpener are courtesy of coyotesurplus. - Most pencil sharpeners like this one sell for around £500, but one from 1890 was sold for £8,000.
In the realm of home-and-garden and lifestyle collectibles, a 1902 antique cast iron pencil sharpener could potentially be valued between £50 to £200, depending on factors such as its condition, rarity, functionality, markings, aesthetic appeal, and market demand. As a collector, seeking authenticity and preferring well-preserved, functional pieces, you might find an excellent condition, working sharpener with original markings and unique features more desirable.
