2 comments about Beckett Football Price Guide #24 (Beckett Football Card Price Guide).

1. Having reviewed earlier editions, I can only reiterate my claims of there being no better source for football sports card collectors. A must! EH



2. Very fast service on shipping, order arrived in excellent shape, and was complete. Pricing was reasonable, and I will shop this vendor again.

1 comments about The Official Blackbook Price Guide to World Coins 2008, Edition #11 (Official Price Guide to World Coins).

1. Offers a quick way to get a coin value in an easy to read format. IT does not provide instruction on grading coins for the novice, so get an additional book if you want further instruction on that.

5 comments about Gun Digest Book of the AR-15, Vol. 2.

1. The primary value of this effort is the evaluation of manufacturers which have changed in the two years between volumes. Otherwise this is a disorganized mess, with some of the poorest proofing I have seen in years. Typos appaar on almost every page. All of the real meat on the AR-15 is in the first volume and that is the one to buy. Leave this one in the bargain bin.



2. I found Vol 1 well written and very informative. However, this volume reads like it was rushed to capitalize on the success of Vol. 1. I would try other AR-15 books first. Try Volume 1. If you really need something new buy it, but do not expect it to be as well written as volume one.



3. Sweeney gives a lot of information, most of it interesting and valuable. The comparative benefits of the AR, the AK and various calibers are well analyzed.
   
   Unfortunately, Sweeney also knows where his bread is buttered (hint - it is not by the readers who bought his book). Sweeney admits that he got a lot of free goodies from the gun manufacturers (presumably in the expectation that he would write favorable reviews) and he delivers. The readers bought the book in the expectation that Sweeney would write the whole truth about what he learned testing guns; unfortunately, the writer short changes us there. All reviews are either favorable (very) or bland. We can infer that the bland reviews mean that there wasn't much good that he could find to say about those products, but I don't pay $20+ dollars for a book to read between the lines.
   
   On a couple occasions, Sweeney discusses interesting topics, but stops short with the explanation that the public does not need to know that kind of sensitive information. Once again, I don't pay a writer to tell me that I am not entitled to know what he knows; I pay him to tell me what he knows. If he keeps the information to himself while being paid for the book, he is not delivering on the bargain.
   
   Buy this book on the remainder shelf for $5, or better yet, get it from the Amazon used book department where I am selling my copy. You don't need this book on your permanent shelf.



4. Interessante quanto il Vol.1. Sweeney è sempre divertente e molto competente. Comprato al prezzo di Amazon, rispetto a quanto si trova in Italia, è da non farsi scappare.



5. Regarding AR-15 Volume #2
   Most of the reviews here are clearly for the first volume which I also enjoyed thoroughly. I could hardly wait for volume 2 to become available. However it was quite a let down. It was virtually void of the technical information Patrick usually provides and instead was filled with quips and comments. He spent too much time trying to be funny and or arrogant instead of providing his usual first class reviews. Editing left a lot to be desired as relevant pictures were often pages away from the text they supported. I have many of Patrick's books, but,I definitely would not recommend AR-15 Volume 2, sorry Patrick, you let us down with this one.

5 comments about L.E. Smith Glass Company: The First One Hundred Years: History, Identification And Value Guide.

1. I found the text to be very informative. The pictures were clear and the descriptions were accurate.
   The histtory of the LE Glass company was helpful in identifying the value of items I have purchased and am presently selling.
   I would highly reccomend it to persons that are collecting or have an interest in the history of american depression glass ware.



2. Loved the book!!! Has pictures of glass pieces that I am collecting with a value along with the photo.



3. We are fairly new glass collectors and have found this book to be very helpful. The estimated values seem a bit on the high side and have quite a large range, but do give you an idea of what things are worth. We collect Moon & Star and have never found such a complete listing as in this book.



4. Tom Felt's L.E. SMITH GLASS COMPANY: THE FIRST ONE HUNDRED YEARS blends a historical overview with an identification and value guide perfect for L.E. Smith glass collectors. Measurements, maker's marks, years of production and color photos of pieces throughout make this a 'must' for any serious collector of the glassware.



5. This is a great identification guide. The book has hundreds of photos arranged every way you can imagine - by color, by pattern, by item. Felt includes an interesting history of the L.E. Smith company and useful information about the marks, etchings and decorations on Smith pieces. A section at the back contains thumbnails of all the book's photos for quick reference. You'll find lots of those items you've "seen somewhere" but could never identify. This book is well worth the price for any collector of elegant and/or novelty glassware of the last century.

4 comments about Luckey's Hummel Figurines and Plates: Identification and Price Guide (12th Edition).

1. This book holds all the information any collector will need. I found it to be very useful.



2. I was hesitant to purchase Luckey's 12th Edition Price Guide because I have always relied on Robert L. Miller's No. 1 Price Guide in the past. However, curiosity got the better of me and I'm glad it did. It's a great reference, and a very good companion to Miller's guide. The main advantage Miller's 10th Edition No. 1 Price Guide has is all figurines are now shown in color... but the images are smaller than in previous editions. Since Luckey's guide (updated by Dean Genth) is presented in a larger format, it has larger images and text, which makes it easier to read. It also displays more images of the older trademark figurines to show the differences between the older figurines and their current production versions a bit better. This was important to me because I generally prefer to collect the older, more rare figurines.
   
   Figurine pricing is now essentially the same between the two guides, which isn't surprising considering Dean Genth owns Miller's Hallmark in Eaton, OH, the home of Robert Miller.
   
   For the average collector, or one that usually tends to purchase the newer released items, Robert Miller's guide is now more up to date. However, for the truly serious collector, Luckey's guide has more or different information on some of the more rare figurines such as those made in white overglaze and sold only in Belgium in the early days. Since I own several of these figurines, I found the information contained in Lucky's guide very useful.
   
   Highly recommended for both the novice or serious collector... but don't forget to purchase Miller's book too.



3. A absolute must have resource - well organized, descriptive, and easy to use. It has served me exceptionally well each time I have had to use it!



4. I have quiet a few Hummel books, but Luckey's Hummel Figurines and Plates, 11nd Edition is my favorite. The book did educate me in the different Trade Marks on the bottom of the Figurines, The Authors explanation is simple and clear. I purchased many Hummel figurines at Internet Auctions and found that the "Current Value" prices of Mr. Luckey's book are very conservative and very closed to the final Auction prices! I do recommend this book, it is the "real" thing!

5 comments about Collector's Guide to Pez: Identification and Price Guide, 3rd Edition.

1. Shawn Peterson's Collector's Guide to Pez is filled with useful information on prices and availability of almost every Pez dispenser ever made. Along with wonderful, colorful photos and great details, Peterson has included great information for both beginning and advanced collectors of Pez products. His information on convention, collectors groups, and bargain hunting are particularly useful as a resource. In a hobby as fun and varied as Pez collectiong is, a great tool is needed. Peterson's text is the Bible for lovers of Pez both young and old. This is the only book you need whether you are a new collector or an old pro. It is definetly worth the money and will be a great addition to your growing Pez collection.



2. Many people like myself collect Pez dispensers. It is a wonderful hobby to have because it is virtually impossible to find every variation of every dispenser there is. Sometimes there are many different variations of a single dispenser, for example the colors that were made. This is where this guide comes in handy. In here you will find colorful pictures of almost every known dispenser made, along with pictures of some different variations. This helps you know what you are looking for when you want a certain dispenser. Listed also are estimated values of the dispensers, which is also helpful in giving you an idea of what that certain dispenser will cost you normally. Also pictured in this book are different inserts from the packages, different displays that were available, different flavor packs that have been packaged with the dispensers and even Pez with unique or foreign packaging. This is a great book for collectors and even those who are a little interested in Pez dispensers. The pictures and information make it easier to know what you are looking for, so if you are looking to collect Pez I recommend this guide as it will be a big help to you.



3. Although it's not a highly competitive category, this book takes the top spot in Pez guides.
   Being the newest, it has the most up to date pictures, prices and products.
   The extended section on candy packs, and Pez paper products/inserts is helpful, as other books lacked in that departement.
   Overall it's a solid price and picture book, with accurate estimates and such. It's the best of what's out there, so it's worth a shot.



4. Being a personal friend of Shawn Peterson would probably leave you with the notion that I have a biased opinion. Having known him for a number of years and knowing his passion for collecting PEZ, I assure you that a significant amount of time, effort, and research went into this book. In reading a couple of, what I feel are unwarranted, negative reviews of this book I'd wholeheartedly disagree with their assessment. This is an outstanding book of reference with excellent photography and informative narrative. I recommend it to anyone in the hobby, or anyone simply wanting to reflect back to their childhood and reminiscing about a much simpler time in life. He's done an outstanding job in assembling an historic perspective of the company, rare and unusual dispensers, as well as common variety and new offerings. Buy with confidence and enjoy!



5. Buy something else with your hard earned money,my friend.I have been involved with Pez since the 50's and I am tired of the constant profiteering.Ed Haas must be turning over in his grave,my friend.

5 comments about Jan Foulke's Guide to Dolls: A Definitive Identification and Price Guide (Jan Foulke's Guide to Dolls).

1. Whether you have an antique china head doll or a vintage GI Joe, this Guide to Dolls is an identification and price guide that's worth having. It seems to replace the Blue Book of Doll Values that Jan Foulke has become known for. (Her last Blue Book was the 16th edition.)However, don't let the name of the book fool you, it is just as comprehensive as the Blue Books and is still packed with a lot of photos to help you identify your existing dolls (or those you may be considering purchasing). The first few pages cover doll collecting in general -- what to look for. Ms. Foulke then provides a few brief suggestions for buying and selling dolls at auction before getting into the meat of the book--the price guide.
   
   The book lists dolls by manufacturer and by mold number in case that's all you have to go by. Each doll or type of doll includes a reported price or price range for a doll in good condition.
   
   Whether you are an avid doll collector or someone just trying to clean out the attic, you may want Jan Foulke at your side before buying or selling your dolls.



2. 
   I was very pleased with Jan Foulk's latest book, "A Guide To Dolls", her first identification and price guide since the last Blue Book she and her husband edited. She is so talented, and our Doll Club, locally, always looked forward to the Blue Books. I have them all in my library.
   
   Also, I am so pleased we have Amazon to help in our searches on any subject.



3. Each author and each doll book has a personality of its own....... I found this specific book very helpful, very realistic, and prices and values leaning a bit towards the lower range value in many cases, which is a good thing... I recommend this book. My sister is now rapidly becoming a doll collector and has a good eye for quality dolls.. She will find this book very helpful and will be surprised at Christmas when she opens this gift......... I also found new doll makers in this book mentioned.



4. A must have for collectors. Foulke is well-known in the doll world. This latest guide is clearly organized and contains information on a variety of collectible dolls.



5. Any collector who works with dolls knows there's a wealth of guides for specific types and brands on the market and not a few general guides, but JAN FOULKE'S GUIDE TO DOLLS is better than most: it packs in one of the most comprehensive coverages we've seen, including an antique and modern section of details, covering composition and factors influencing collectible prices, and including histories and even doll clothing prices. It's billed as a 'definitive collection and price guide' and doesn't miss its mark, packing in the details essential to proper pricing and identification.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch

3 comments about Collectible Glassware from the 40s, 50s and 60s (Collectible Glassware from the Forties, Fifties, and Sixties).

1. This guide was great if you don't have any other volumes. The pricing so far seems to be very accurate to the market. If you have another earlier edition of 40's 50's 60's there are not very many new patterns in the book. Great photo reference.



2. Gene Florance is, I think, the best person to go by, when it comes to depression glass and collectible glassware. his books are like the bible to me.
   one of the best things about Gene's books, they are easy to follow and the pictures are AWESOME! I'm a better person to compare pictures than try to read what someone is telling me. so thats why, I dont leave home without him/it!



3. I always find gene florence book the most helpful for research. I did find somethings that where discontinued I would have liked referenced. I still rely on his resources.

5 comments about Figures in Fabric.

1. The day I receivd this book,on my birthday, my heart lept for joy I have waited patiently hoping to get a copy but not so expensive.Im 62 live on SSI so my funds are far short of my dreams but my son darling that he is surprised me. Turns out this was well worth the wait,and maybe 60.00I'm sure that the author deserves every penney as she is inspired and authentic. Sharing her knowledge with the rest of us mere mortals is indeed a gift.Hard to believe she can make fabric behave in the way she does but it takes patience and love of the designer so if you are not patient or inspirable save your money and blend in with the crowd with this book as an inspiration you will break out of the mold and be the butterfly you dream of.I love it.I will never part with it.
   Thank you Lisa



2. LISA'S BOOK IS AN INSPERATION FOR THE DOLL MAKER AND WILL CHALLENGE
   YOUR COURAGE TO TRY HER METHODS.NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED.
   SOME INSTRUCTIONS BUT YOU NEED TO PUT THE EFFORT INTO HANDS ON AND
   TRY,TRY AGAIN.A WONDERFUL BOOK A JOY TO READ AND QUITE SPIRITUAL.
   A MUST HAVE.



3. WOW!! ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! Everyone in my class wants one!! A teriffic book for all Dollmakers and Collectors.
   Included in the 160 pages is the Gallery with 37 stunning pictures of different dolls made by Lisa.There is also a "Progress of a Figure" section complete with illustrations showing you how to make a Figure.
   Then comes the "Evolution in Fabric" which is a Gallery including many more pictures of Lisa's work over the years.
   
   Great book for the Coffee Table !



4. Lisa Lichtenfels is awesome! Her sculptures are so absolutely breath taking even on paper. I keep this book on display on a shelf and even the non doll and art lovers can't help but notice it and comment on the beautiful photos.
   
   The step by step and multiple angle photos on the figures really appealed to me. This book is more wonderful than I thought it could be. I see something new each time I look at it.



5. This book is a mind boggling display of some of the most fantastic work you'll ever see! An absolute must for anyone interested in making dolls--or for any artist!

1 comments about Kentucky Derby Glasses Price Guide.

1. Among the legions of racing fans that frequent such thoroughbred races as the Preakness, Belmont, and the Breeder's Cup, are those for whom their enthusiasm for the sport leads them to collect various kinds and categories of racing memorabilia. Now in an expanded and updated fourth edition, the "Kentucky Derby Glasses Price Guide", compiled by Judy Marchman is a unique and superbly illustrated compendium focusing on all of the Kentucky Derby glasses and shot glasses, as well as other rare and valuable glasses associated with professional horse racing. Organized chronologically by year, each color illustrated example also cites its price as a collectible. Ideal for novice collectors just starting out, and an informed reference for dealers and established collectors, "Kentucky Derby Glasses Price Guide" is an ideal and prized addition to personal, professional, and community library Antiques & Collectibles collections.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch