Q: My great-grandfather was a shopkeeper, and he purchased the Dodge scale seen in this picture July 16, 1918, for $230. He used it to weight fruits and vegetables. The bin and some of the parts are copper. It has a marble shelf that is supported by a metal base. The scale is about 22 inches long and 13 inches high. It can weigh up to 20 pounds. The scale is in perfect condition, plus I have the original directions book and purchase receipt. My family has lived in Pennsylvania for generations, and I have found the Pennsylvania Dutch are meticulous in their bookkeeping! To me, the scale is a lovely decorative piece and a cherished family heirloom. I hope it will be as precious to my children as it is to me. Perhaps you can tell us more about its history.

A: Your countertop Micrometer Scale was made by Dodge Manufacturing, which was located in Yonkers, New York, in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Your scale is circa 1903 and is prized by collectors. It would probably be worth $800 to $1,200.

Q: This mark is on a set of porcelain china that I inherited. It belonged to my grandmother and was purchased in the early 1900s. The set was originally a service for 12, but a few pieces are missing. It also includes serving dishes. The set is decorated with a plain white finish.

What can you tell me about the history and value of my china? Should I have the set insured? Is there a current market for Haviland china? Do you have any advice on how to sell my set?

A: Haviland Porcelain was founded in 1883 by David Haviland, in Limoges, France. It is still in business. The market for selling Haviland china is limited at this time. The lack of demand can be attributed to the poor economy and the fact that people often prefer low-maintenance dinnerware. The Internet is a great way to sell antique dinnerware because of the widespread exposure it provides. Craigslist is another option. If you sell to an antiques dealer, you can expect to receive anywhere from 30 percent to 50 percent of its value.

The mark you provided was used from 1893 to 1930. Depending on your area, your set would probably be worth between $400 and $1,500. Insure your set for $1,500.

Dodge Scale was made in Yonkers, New York.

Haviland Porcelain was made in Limoges, France.

Address your questions to Anne McCollam, P. O. Box 247, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Items of a general interest will be answered in this column. Due to the volume of inquiries, she cannot answer individual letters. To find out more about Anne McCollam and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.