FROM THE MODERATOR:
This thread has gone from being confrontational, to demeaning forum members as-well-as the integrity of the forum itself. (This started on another thread.) The site founder started it as a hobby - a common place where people could come together to share, learn and enjoy themselves in a caring forum – and I know that is what he wants it to continue to be. The forum welcomes differing opinions but will not become a name-calling, combative, degrading site that has been the demise of so many forums. No matter what motivates individuals to join the forum, we welcome people willing to share treasures, share their knowledge, help people learn/discern and do it in a civil manner. At times members may "agree-to-disagree" and are expected to do so with respect. We hope that all can work to get along for the good.
AS A REMINDER – Antique-Shop is made up of Volunteers from around the world that meet here for a mutual love of preserving the past. We welcome people with diverse backgrounds/opinions and the quest to provide support as to the history of treasures - that is what makes this site wonderfully educational and personable. The Antique-Shop has established itself as a great resource because of members generously taking their time (sometimes hours, days or months) to help inquiring people get answers…for FREE. Members/moderators are not monetarily or materially compensated. However, they do get lots of satisfaction because of a love for things old, helping others figure out their treasures and learning along the way. As a result, great camaraderie has developed not only for long-time regulars but for newcomers as well. Anyone that perused this site on a regular basis will see that we don’t know everything. There are times we know what items are but there are times we are confounded by an item, have changed our minds on findings or unable to help. Oftentimes we recommend for people to seek help from museums, appraisers, experts, specialized forums and often go so far as to help them connect with some. (As stated early in this thread that a hands-on inspection from someone in-the-know would be the best route for benbenny007. So many times there is so much more that can be seen in-person that can't always be seen from pictures on the internet.)
benbenny007, we only wish you the best!