Category: Treasure Hunt

Dear Donna,
Can you possibly tell me what this is and what it was for? It is solid wood and 3.5 inches. I recently found this in a barn and thought it was interesting.
Ellen

Dear Ellen,
What you found is called a bung. I have seen many in the tops of old milk cans. I think, though, that they were used also in barrels such as whiskey, bourbon, etc., tapered like yours to be pounded in to fit tight and secure and prevent leaking. You can almost make out the ring around it.

Not all bungs are wood; they can be rubber, wax, cork or, I am sure these days, a lot of other materials as well. Yours is most likely an older one and looks to be in great condition. The value is in the $10 range, as they are not that easy to find in good condition. This is not a huge financial treasure for you, but it sure will make a fun story to share.

Dear Donna,
I have this sign from The Concord Dairy. I’m not sure what to do with it and am wondering if you could help with a value. It’s a big one, 8’x4’, and it could be a plywood. I’m not sure of the age.
Carl

Dear Carl,
My first thought for you is if you market it in Concord, I think you might find collectors. The size is an issue, but it appears to be in good shape.
The Concord Dairy was around from the early 1900s till the 1970s, when it was bought out by Weeks. I hope you can find a buyer within the state. As I said, size is an issue for some collectors who prefer smaller items, but a restaurant or business might like it for wall coverage. And it’s a good piece of history within the state.
Carl, I would advertise that you are looking for a home for it. I think I would start off with a value at $200 and see where that goes. Thanks for sharing and I hope you find it a new home.