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PAGE 14 To advertise call (775)727-8787 January 2026
context (era of use, revolutionary changes like
anesthesia).
What types of Instruments to collect? One
may begin with surgical Instruments, scalpels,
forceps, scissors, clamps, retractors; and sets
which are are more valuable. But there are also
diagnostic tools such a stethoscopes (iconic
and popular), blood pressure cuffs and early
thermometers. Another category is unique and
historical Items from specific eras (Civil War,
Victorian), inventor-specific tools, early dental
tools. “Durable Medical Equipment” (DME),
crutches, commodes and older CPAP machines.
Manufacturer names, trademarks, patent num-
bers (post-1880s) are important.
Materials matter. Ebony, bone and ivory
These Instruments Are Not Musical by Chuck N. Baker suggest older items, and ”stainless” or “rustless”
steel is post-1877. Metal handles are often post-
Anyone with cable TV can tell you that over doctor and does not even have to be ill to par- 1870.
the past several years there has been a prolifer- take! It involves collecting medical instruments, Like most collectibles, buy from experts,
ation of ads for prescription drugs. Chemical especially vintage ones. Such items include sur- reputable antique dealers or auction houses to
companies have been using Latin-sounding gical tools, diagnostic items and unique histori- avoid fakes. Full sets (scissors, forceps, scalpel),
names of medications and offering varied pills cal pieces. Collecting can also mean valuing sets are more desirable. Look for instruments in
and liquids. Since I don’t have any of the illness- and maker marks, and being aware of reproduc- good condition, ideally with original cases. And
es, I can’t vouch for their effectiveness. But the tions, with newer equipment focusing on func- power cords, manuals, and accessories (cables,
commercials have been running for quite some tion and durability for use, often found through etc.) are crucial. Once you have enough pieces,
time, so it would seem all is well. (No pun in- reputable dealers or auctions for antiques. Key make sure you purchase nice glass-enclosed cas-
tended.) aspects are identifying dates (patents, manufac- es to display your finds. Got to keep ‘em sterile,
But some people are into a medical side turers), materials (wood/ivory less common af- you know!
hack where an individual does not have to be a ter sterilization with metal more common), and

have to lower their asking prices or accept a
customer’s best offer. To get a better idea of an
item’s value, search for sold prices on eBay (use
the Advanced Search page and click the box for
“Sold Items”).
There are some collectors’ clubs that spe-
cialize in Las Vegas memorabilia. For more in-
formation, you may want to contact the Casino
Collectibles Association (ccgtcc.com). Don’t for-
ART GLASS get about crossover appeal! Many collectibles fit
Glass can be extremely difficult to identify into more than one category, which can increase
and date. Fortunately for collectors, the vase their desirability (and value). Hotel charms like
pictured here is signed and dated: Lundberg these may also interest collectors of vintage jew-
Studios, 1977. Lundberg Studios, founded in elry, travel souvenirs and advertising.
1970 and still active, makes iridescent glass with PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Rivich Auction -
shapes and patterns reminiscent of famous art Art glass isn’t always antique. This vase made by * * *
glass makers like Tiffany. They are not copies or Lundberg Studios in the 1970s combines classic TIP: To remove the remains of masking tape
reproductions but contemporary pieces taking techniques with modern sensibilities. and labels from glass, rub the spot with WD-40
inspiration from older styles. * * * lubricating and penetrating oil.
When it comes to contemporary glass
(which Kovels defines as glass made after about Q: I want to know the value of these Trop- * * *
1970), the highest prices usually go to sculptur- icana Hotel Las Vegas silver charms. One is CURRENT PRICES: Textile, weaving, pic-
al, avant-garde pieces made with unconvention- listed on eBay for $129.99 the other for $54.99. torial, bear, stylized, red, white beaded trim,
al techniques; simpler, more traditional pieces The only difference I can see is that the $129.99 dark blue ground, red side borders, Tlingit, 20th
can be bargains. For example, this vase at Rivich charm has a tag on it that reads “Las Vegas Ne- century, 38 x 36 inches, $160.
Auction sold for $94 -- a fraction of the value of vada.” Both have a mark on the bottom that Sewing, lacemaker’s lamp, whale oil, pewter,
similar-looking vases from the art nouveau and reads “sterling.” That is the only mark. two lenses, stepped round foot, early 1800s, 9
art deco eras of the early 20th century. But re- A: Sellers can list their items on eBay for any inches, $220.
member, all it takes for a contemporary piece to price, but that doesn’t mean they will get cus-
become an antique is time. tomers who pay that price. Online sellers may (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.