Commemorative Plates-Kettlesprings Kilns

Q: I was given a plate commemorating the sesquicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth in 1809. There is a portrait of Lincoln in the center of the plate and various scenes, including his birthplace, Douglas debates, the Emancipation Proclamation, Lincoln Memorial, and other scenes. On the back it says “First Issue, Collectors Item” with a description. It also says “Copyright 1958 by A.H. Zychick, Leader Building, Cleveland, Ohio” and “Kettlesprings Kilns, Alliance, Ohio.” What is it worth?

A: The design on your plate is one of five in a series copyrighted by A. H. Zychick and distributed by his company, Lincoln Commemorative Distributing Co. Kettlesprings Kilns is a manufacturer of commemorative plates that was founded in 1950 and is still in business. Collector plates have gone down in value. Value of your plate, $20-$25 retail.