Collectors Corner

Off of the souvenir stands of Ye Alpine Tavern thousands of postcards were bought and mailed all across the country, making them one of the most easily collectable items of the Mt. Lowe Railroad.

One of the more elusive items sold from the glass cases were souvenir spoons. I have no idea what they would have sold for back in those days but in California over the last six years prices average at around $60.00.

Where do you look for them? Swap meets like PCC or the Rosebowl but you better get an early start. Antique stores are the best source, but expect to pay the price. In a 50-mile radius from Pasadena expect to pay top dollar for a Mt. Lowe Spoon. Out of town you will find them much more affordable but they are fewer and farther apart. Railroad shows are another good source, but again, in town you will pay more than at an out of town or state show.

I’m told there are at least 60 different spoons depicting Mt. Lowe, however there may be as many as 90. Quite a few spoons will feature more than one site on it. For example the bowl may feature the Incline and the stem may have a Mission or another of Los Angeles’s popular attractions. These are not quite as popular but still sought after. Values $25-60.00.

The fun part is in the hunt, so get out there and enjoy yourself.

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Last modified: February 12, 1999

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Jake Brouwer
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