I have two items that i would like to learn more about. One is a letter written to the Militia of Kentucky by Isaac Shelby. It has been clear coated to a piece of wood, so i'm not really sure if it is really as old as the date on it implies. it says July 31, 1813.

The other is a blue china plate with a crest on the back with a M in the center. Made in Japan

I can send pictures to anyone who thinks they can help me identify these two items

Thanks for your interest in ISA.

We are usually not able to identify or give value to items we cannot examine. There are just too many varibles involved. You can click Search For An Appraiser at the left and find someone in your area who could examine these for you. We do have several document experts in our organization, however if the letter has been mounted and not in original condition, it would probably have just a value as a piece of decorative art.

The plate mark could probably be identified by any ISA appraiser. From what you describe it may be Nippon or Noritake imported by the Morimura Brothers early 20th century. A photograph of the plate and mark would help in identification.

I hope this information helps

Bill Carner, ISA CAPP
Birmngham, AL