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 www.isasc.org, 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 Hi, I recently purchased an old scale at an auction. I think it might be called a counter scale. I know that it is made by The Chicago Scale Co., and at the end of the beam it says "Little Detective". I am interested in any info about this scale. Approximately how old it is, and an approximate value.
Thank you,
Dennis
Answer Hi Dennis,
Chicago Scale Co. was founded in Chicago in March of 1863 by William Washburn Nutting. "Little Detective" scales, with a 25 pound capacity were advertised by the company from 1882-1896. The latest evidence of the scale company's advertising is from 1922. Retail value might be $50-$175 depending on condition.
