In March, 2003, the Academy Awards celebrates its 75 anniversary. To chronicle those award-winning movies, this wonderful new book presents a history illustrated of the Academy Awards with over 850 movie posters. It is a visual feast that provides an image from almost every winning picture in every category. Everyone who loves motion pictures will delight in this book. Information about every winner makes this a beautiful and valuable source for research. The posters recall each movie's history and recapture in its magic. For collectors of movie memorabilia and posters, this is a great treasure trove and the price guide makes the book a necessary tool for building one's collection. This is a must for every public and personal library and, whether they are devotees of "Gone with the Wind" or "The Matrix" or anything in between, it is a perfect gift for movie fanatic.

Bounce back to the carefree childhood days when you spent hours with your yo-yo learning to "walk the dog" or go "around the world". Yo-yos of many companies, decades (from the 1930s onward), and designs are displayed along with yo-yos that shriek, whistle, and spark. Whether you prefer wood or plastic, butterflies or teenies, Duncans or Whirl Kings, here you will find the yo-yos that you like best in over 275 color photographs. Also, yo-yo championship patches, tricks books, and trophies are displayed. Brief histories of several yo-yo companies such as Cheerio, Duncan, and Royal are provided. Methods are explored for roughly determining a yo-yo's age, through inscribed zip codes and patent numbers. Current market values for each and every yo-yo are found in the captions.

From Alpenbrau to Zima, this engaging book features more than 450 color photos of some of the most attractive beer signs ever created and provides an in-depth look at this significant aspect of advertising art. Included are early wood and cardboard signs, animated, hanging, and wall-mounted signs, electric lanterns, and clocks-all presented in alphabetical order according to brand of beer. Special emphasis is given to electric, lighted, and animated signs from 1950-1970, the Golden Era of beer signs. Captions provide valuable information on dates, sizes, values, manufacturers, and manufacturing techniques. A treat for aficionados of breweriana and advertising alike!

With over 6000 items listed, this is the most comprehensive guide to Batman (R) collectibles ever assembled between two covers. Nearly 300 color photographs accompany the informative articles and detailed price guide listings. Highlights include a Comics section which lists every comic book in which Batman has appeared from his debut in 1939 through to the end of 1997, plus a Figures section which lists all of the various Batman action figures. Covering everything from Artwork to Videos, and price ranges from 15- to $150,000, this book is a must for any Batfan or student of popular culture.

Enchanting lady figurine planters were promoted heavily by florists and five-and-dime stores, becoming a gift-giver's favorite during the 1950s and '60s. These lovely ladies were produced mainly in Japan, targeted for the U.S. market, and most commonly adorned with colorful plastic flowers. Today they are rapidly gaining popularity on the ceramics collectibles market. These planters have made limited appearances in head vase and figural planter books, but here, finally, is a comprehensive guide devoted specifically to this fascinating collectible. It focuses on Japanese-manufactured products and features over 350 color photographs of more than 700 planters. Individual captions describe each planter's height, mark, and estimates current market value. Also included is a review of planter production techniques and the various ways they were identified and numbered. As an added bonus, a handy cross-reference provides an easy way for specialty collectors to find their favorite importer such as Lefton, Relpo, or Enesco. Featuring a wonderful variety of planters, from festively painted Christmas ladies to nursery rhyme characters and Valentine sweethearts, this carefully crafted book provides collectors and dealers with a superb reference.

Eileen Dubrow has exhaustively combined all original catalog material from major American furniture manufacturers of the 1880s and 90s. This period was American's hey day of growth, and its furniture is the fastest growing field of collecting today. This book will enable the reader to identify makers and give ideas of other pieces available. This book presents a fascinating study showing hundreds of examples covering furniture for the dining room, parlour, library, bedroom (brass beds), and office (a tremendous number of variations of roll top desks), including rattan and children's furniture. These pieces are still available in the market place at reasonable prices and are superbly crafted. This book contains a price reference guide.

The early terra cotta, garden wares, tiles, Franciscan line, and Catalina artware produced by the prolific Gladding, McBean and Company from the late 1800s to 1942 are covered and beautifully displayed in this fascinating book. The Franciscan pottery table and artware line, so named to honor the Franciscan Friars who established Spanish Missions in California, was one of the most successful product lines produced by California's Gladding, McBean and Company. Among the dishes displayed here are their most popular patterns, including El Patio, Coronado, Metropolitan, Apple, and Desert Rose. Also featured are the colorful wares made after the firm acquired the Catalina Island Pottery in 1937. The history of Gladding, McBean covers its establishment in Lincoln, California, in 1873 to its closure in 1984. Values included. This is a wonderful guide book for everyone who loves twentieth century pottery!

On the banks of the Severn River, two miles from the Chesapeake Bay, is the city of Annapolis, the capital of the state of Maryland, the home of the United States Naval Academy, and a host of historical buildings, many dating to before the Revolutionary War. Vintage postcards, both hand-tinted and black and white, take readers on a journey here in the 1900s through the 1950s. Tour the chambers of the State House and see where George Washington resigned his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. Stand under the tree at St. John's College where the Sons of Liberty met to plot rebellion against the British Crown. Visit the historical Hammond-Harwood, Peggy Stewart, and Brice Houses. Then watch dress parades at the Naval Academy and wander to the City Docks for a ferry ride around Chesapeake Bay. The rich history of Annapolis is conveniently spread before you.

During the 1970s, the real Cher wore Bob Mackie designs for her TV show as well as for galas and other public appearances. Presented here are the fashions that Mego Corporation recreated, perfect little miniatures captured in doll-size. This vast array of designs showcases Mackie's flair for the dramatic, his gift of the glitz, and his love for the show-biz statement. Fans will be amazed by how many doll-size versions of the real Cher's fashions they recognize and remember. The 1970s live again in baring tops and billowy bell bottoms, slinky metallic gowns, and of course, stretch polyester. It's pure fun turning the pages to see each fashion, with names like "Herky Jerky," "Jumperoo," and "Midnight Blue," in scenes that works the name of the outfit into the action. There are over fifty designs for the Cher doll by Mackie and many more for the other Mego (R) fashion dolls like Farrah, Diana Ross, Toni Tennille, and of course, Sonny. With values in the captions, this is a must-have reference book for fans of Cher and all her celebrity friends!

Hundreds of old farm tools and equipment are shown to be echoes of America's past, as farming remains vital to the economy today. Major chapters cover old haying, grains, tobacco, orchards, poultry, dairy, horses and mules in farm practices. Over 600 vintage and modern photos display the amazing variety of gadgets once necessary for farming. These objects are preserved in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, at the Landis Valley Museum, where they help to interpret American farm life of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. This book extends the reach of the museum's collections to interested people worldwide.

From the years of slavery through the years of civil rights, images of black people have taken many forms. Some of these images were positive and some negative and stereotypical. Together they help us see and measure the history of racial attitudes in America, and make up the growing field of what is called Black Collectibles. These collectibles help to chronicle an important aspect of American history. Hundreds of these items are gathered together for Images in Black: 300 Years of Black Collectibles, and are illustrated in full color. The text helps the reader understand the history, and the price guide makes the volume useful for evaluating the market in black collectibles.

With over 800 stunning color photographs, this book displays ceramics once proclaimed to be the "fastest-selling decorative art pottery," Roseville's Artcraft, Cherub Cameo, Donatello, Pine Cone Modern, and Wincraft lines. The thorough text explores the history of the famous Roseville Pottery Company, from its beginnings in Roseville, Ohio, in 1890 through its closure in Zanesville, Ohio, in 1954. The roles played by key staff members, Frederic Grant, Frederick Hurten Rhead, Ben Seibel, and George Young are detailed, and previously unpublished manufacturer's marks are shown. Rare Della Robbia and Olympic items are featured along with experimental and trial glaze wares from Roseville's glaze chemist George Krause. This book has important new findings for all who are interested in twentieth century art pottery.

The application of make-up for women was made more convenient in the 1920s with the popularization of small container known as a "compact". Inside, pressed (compacted) face powder was housed with a cloth of feather "puff" applicator and a mirror for checking the job. In this book, Frances Johnson has compiled hundreds of different compacts of various materials, styles, and values along with delightful stories about girls who did or did not paint themselves up to attract boys. Her direct style is tinged with humor, making the compacts here all the more enjoyable. Prices with captions.

Whether you're a beginning or advanced collector, a nostalgia buff, or simply moved by Raggedy Ann and Andy smiles,you'll love this book. It is a peek into private collections from across the country, with dozens of collectors sharing their special "babies." More than 700 color photographs depict previously unpublished dolls and related items. For the first time, creative "concept Raggedys"-those outfitted in ethnic or occupational garb-are covered in depth, and Raggedys dressed for the holidays also make their appearance. Volland, Georgene, Knickerbocker, and Applause collectors will welcome the sections provided to help them date their dolls. These smiling Raggedy faces will entice you to read, reread, and refer to this volume again and again. The dozens of Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, books, and collectibles pictured here will have you heading out on a Raggedy search, want list in hand.

America sees the cowboys of yesteryear as native heroes. Cowboys were seen to represent American character and to stand for freedom in rugged big sky lands. Cowboys were tough, self-reliant, courageous, modest, and only turned to violence when absolutely necessary. With a reputation like that, it is no wonder that since the very first reel was created, the Western has been the single most popular movie genre. In this comprehensive guide, readers will find over 2000 Western movie stars photos and signatures from the 1920s to the 1970s. Also included are values for all those signed images and every star presented is identified. Among the cowboy heroes and heroines covered are the stars of the 1920s silent Westerns, the A and B movie stars of the 1930s through the 1960s, singing cowboys, sidekicks, heavies, Indians, women, veteran actors, supporting actors, and, of course, John Wayne. Enjoy this nostalgic ride through American cinema history.

Cartier: The Story Behind the Style is a beautifully illustrated, handbag-sized visual history of one of the world's most iconic brands. From the brand's inception in Paris in 1847, Cartier has been the go-to jeweller for the world's most stylish set. Filled with photographs and information from the company's 175 years, go behind the scenes to discover the story of how Cartier became synonymous with luxury. Chart the rise of the famous jeweller and watchmaker from humble beginnings in 19th-century Paris to the slick empire it is today. Discover how the ambitious Cartier family broke fresh ground in design, enchanted maharajas and presidents, struck up strategic creative partnerships, and became a household name with iconic designs such as the Panthere, Tank and Love bracelet. Cartier: The Story Behind the Style is the perfect book for any fashion or jewellery lover. Also available, Tiffany & Co.: The Story Behind the Style

This lively, photo-filled reference book is a delight for all interested in figural pottery. The American Bisque Pottery, operating in Williamstown, West Virginia from 1919 to 1982, and the American Pottery Company produced popular cookie jars, ashtrays, doorstops, sprinkle bottles, banks, planters, lamps and much more. Many of these items have never been pictured in any book before. With American Bisque in hand, you will be able to identify little-known pieces including airbrushed planters of yarn dolls as well as the most sought-after cookie jars.

Beauty is in the eye of the Beholder with this officially licensed miniature figurine. * FIGURINE WITH LIGHT: A one-of-a-kind 3-inch figurine of the popular monster: the Beholder with a glowing eye * BOOK INCLUDED: Learn more about this iconic monster in this fully illustrated 32-page miniature book * PERFECT GIFT FOR D&D FANS: Display on a shelf, desk, or bookcase and show off your love of Dungeons & Dragons * OFFICIALLY LICENSED: Authentic Dungeons & Dragons collectible

Only recently recognized for its many contributions to ceramics found throughout the world, the Scottish pottery industry has existed for more than two hundred years. Rather than compete with England's famed potteries to the south, Scotland focused on the export market, sending its colorful and decorative wares to America, Canada, and many parts of Southeast Asia. Widely enjoyed, these popular and affordable wares were usually not marked. Their Scottish origin, therefore, remained largely unknown and--until now--unappreciated. This book sets the record straight. Over 630 striking color photographs showcase the multi-hued dinnerware, vases, plaques, figurines, and other ceramic items that can now be rightfully attributed to the prolific Scottish potteries. Separate, descriptive chapters feature brief histories of the most important potteries, a discussion of the wares produced, listings of the pottery descriptions and patterns, plus relevant readings. Additional chapters highlight spongeware techniques, Scottish jugs, and the "Glasgow Girls"--talented pottery painters from the late nineteenth century. This invaluable resource also includes values for all items, a helpful glossary, and a detailed index.

Remember that colorful gumball machine sitting on the counter of the neighborhood candy store? Today, it and other coin-operated vending machines of all kinds are highly collectible for their nostalgic and historical value. Featuring photos, descriptions, and prices for over 300 machines, this handy guide will help you discover great finds just waiting at flea markets and antique shows! Ranging from common to rare, the machines are organized by category and shown in alphabetical order according to their common names. They date from the late 1890s to the 1960s and include specific designs that dispensed candy, gum, peanuts, tobacco, aspirin, breath pellets, matches, stamps, and cigars. Beginning as well as seasoned collectors will appreciate the useful hints for finding these machines, restoring and servicing them, common terminology, and information on specialized shows and collector associations.

Featuring over 370 stunning photos and detailed, scholarly text, this is the first book about this popular 19th century European art form! They are magical porcelain three-dimensional pictures, which can be seen only when backlit, and were a popular craze in the late Victorian era. The lithophanes here enhanced tea warmers, plaques, vases, night lights, lampshades, table screens, fireplace screens, complexion fans or hand screens, window panels, miniatures, steins, cups, mugs, plates, matchboxes, and candle shields. The text represents years of accumulated research, and provides information on lithophane's Asian inspiration, manufacturing techniques, production history, inspirations, and forms. This book is a must for anyone with a passion for Victorian ceramics and art.

Cigarette lighter collecting has quickly become a very popular hobby throughout the world. Here, at last, is accessible information for the collector. Over 500 lighters are illustrated in full color. They are shown in alphabetical order of their makers and by date within each company. The available historical data is presented clearly and concisely. The lighters are unusual and interesting. They include examples from well-known companies like Dunhill, Ronson, and Zippo as well as companies whose names are lost in smoke. The reader receives an "across the board" look at what is available today and what we think will be sought in the future. A guide to prices is included.

Here it is, everything you always wanted to know about Ford farm toys! This colorful book contains detailed information on Ford toys from the early 1900s through the present day, manufactured by companies in the United States as well as abroad including names like Fordson, Ertl, Arcade, Tootsie Toy, and New Holland among others. Here are miniature Ford tractors, industrial equipment, lawn and garden equipment, farm sets and dealer trucks most of which have been produced in full scale by Ford. Toy enthusiast, farm collectors, and modelers are sure to find happy memories of their childhoods in this comprehensive volume. Over 300 full color photos are complemented by humorous anecdotes. A price guide for all models shown is included with the captions.

This new edition of Architectural Tiles: Conservation and Restoration continues to inform and educate on appropriate means towards the preservation of this valuable heritage. It not only contains new and up to date information on materials, practical methods, and historical research but also reflects changes in the attitudes, outlook and perceptions within the wider conservation, architectural heritage and construction communities which give a new dimension to the conservation and restoration techniques described in the previous edition. The growing interest in the preservation of post war ceramic tile murals and the subsequent demand for information pertaining specifically to this era is a welcome and useful addition. The new overview of common problems will be helpful in domestic and ecclesiastical situations and will appeal to independent tilers who are in need of information to deal with problems out of the normal run of their work but which are now more commonly being dealt with outside of conservation practice circles. The book has always been and remains an accessible resource to anyone who is interested either professionally or as an enthusiast in the preservation of historic architectural tiles.

During the last quarter of the nineteenth century, American potters were struggling to produce quality ceramics to rival that of the English and French. Knowles, Taylor & Knowles took up the challenge, determined to produce a bone china that would be the pride of America. Highly regarded in its day, Knowles, Taylor & Knowles made Belleek Ware, Lotus Ware, and China Whiskey Jugs which are prized possessions among collectors today. Here is a book to inspire dealers and collectors alike. Valuable information concerning the identification of the various wares, the manufacturer's marks, decorative techniques, artists and the current values is included. Each phase of the company's production is illustrated in 245 color photographs.