What’s it worth?

Q:I bought a Coca-Cola sign at a flea market about 10 years ago. It appears to be hand-painted with a beach scene. I was told that it dates from the 1950s. There are no signatures or markings. I would like to know more about it. -- G.D.

Answer: The hand-painted sign was not authorized by the Coca-Cola Co. It is a fantasy piece, not a reproduction, produced sometime within the past 30 years. It probably was never meant to fool anyone. It is a decorative item.

It depicts a beach scene circa 1915, although the skirted bottle shape is newer. The painting is rather crude. It has no antique value.

Q:I would like to know more about my tin case with combs. The metal combs fit into compartments inside the case, which is marked "Warranted English Blue Steel." Please tell me what it is and its value. -- J.J.

Answer: They are graining combs, used in the production of faux or false wood graining. Grain painting was used beginning in the 17th century in Europe and was popular in America in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Grain painting also was done using a dry brush and sponges in addition to combs. Basically, the procedure was used to make less expensive wood, such as pine or poplar, look like mahogany or rosewood.

The cased combs would retail for about $75. The set was made around the turn of the century. It would appeal to serious furniture artisans and hobbyists, who would put them to use, and tool collectors.

Have a question about an antique or collectible? Send e-mail to with a digital image, or send a complete description with a clear photograph to Jay Moore, Flair Department, Richmond Times-Dispatch, P.O. Box 85333, Richmond, VA 23293. Photographs will not be returned. The large volume of mail may mean a delay in publishing answers.