AboutBill & Jan Berning Expertise We can answer almost any question regarding antique scales of any type.
Experience We are dealers in antique coin operated penny scales and parts. We collect antique scales of all types.
Bill has been buying and selling scales and mail order penny scale parts since 1983. Jan started collecting small scales of all types in 1977. Our combined collection of antique scales contains over 2200 scales. We are the authors of the book Scales: A Collector's Guide and The revised & Expanded 2nd Edition of Scales: A Collector's Guide. Jan is the editor of "Equilibrium" the journal of The International Society of Antique Scale Collectors. Our website is www.PennyScale.com
Organizations The International Society of Antique Scale Collectors, Coin Operated Collectors Association
Publications Articles by or about the Bernings have appeared in issues of “Southeastern Antiquing and Collecting Magazine”, “This Old House”, "Reminisce", “Equilibrium” and “Country Living”.
Education/Credentials Jan: BS FACS & Art University of Georgia
Question I have an old Howe platform scale with the "Rutland Vt. USA" on the platform. It is 16x 24 and has a 500 lb. capacity. Wooden upright with another wood pc. that attaches to the upright and holds the brass balance. The balance is stamped with (17374) the two components on the wodd balance holder are stamped with 17491 (this end attaches to the upright), and 17266 which is at the opposite end and sort of swivels with some type of handle. there is also some type of counterweight that holds what I beleive is "shot" and is stamped with 2702. Any idea if it is worth anything?
Answer Hi Paul,
Howe scale Co. was in Rutland, VT from 1877 until they went out of business there in the 1980s. They manufactured platform scales there for many years.
Most platform scales like yours have a retail value of $50-$150 depending on condition.
