Antiques & Collecting: Explore game boards

On top of the world! In September 1909, The New York Times published Robert Peary’s claims of reaching the North Pole in April of that year, crediting him with the pole’s discovery.

However, just a week earlier, another newspaper claimed that Frederick Cook had reached the pole the year before. Both claims have been disputed since then, but they were sensations at the time.

The journey to the North Pole inspired commemorative figurines, souvenirs and games. This North Pole Game has a patent date of 1910.

It is a game of skill in which the player rolls one of the included metal balls along the winding track, earning points for each hole the ball passes without falling in.

The rules are printed on the back of the board, along with a scene of two explorers approaching the pole.

This game sold for $480 at Morphy Auctions. The lot included the colorfully lithographed tin game board, two metal balls, the instructions sheet and the box with a color picture of a family in early 1900s dress playing the game.

Commercial game boards sell for higher prices when they come with the original box and pieces.

How can I safely clean old coins?

Coins should not be cleaned. Collectors want coins with the patina unchanged. If your coins are collectible, they should be protected from fingerprints and stored properly.

Don’t touch the coins to examine them unless you are wearing white gloves. The oil from your skin will damage the coin. If you must touch a coin, hold it by the edge.

Coins should not be stored loose in a box or envelope. They may be scratched. Paper, cardboard, plastic and wood give off chemical vapors that speed corrosion. You can buy archival coin holders online or at a coin shop.

Coins should be kept in a cool, dry location. You can find more information on properly storing coins on the American Numismatic Association website, money.org.

Tip: Clean cast iron with coarse salt and a soft sponge. The salt is abrasive enough to remove bits of food and absorb oil without harming the pan’s seasoning. Rinse and wipe dry.

Current Prices

Toy, car, racing, Shark, brown, Fox Eagle 60 engine, pusher, Remco, 1961, 20 inches, $250.

Lamp, Orbiter series, globe shade, chrome, adjustable swing arm, black enamel handle and base, Robert Sonneman, 53 x 22 x 10 inches, $270.

Picture, appliqued, bird on branch, leaves, fruit, multicolor, fabric, frame, Victorian, 24 x 20 3/4 inches, $640.