| John Deere Collectibles | |||||||||||||||||
| A Book Review | |||||||||||||||||
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WOW is about the only way to describe the newest collectibles book on my shelf, John Deere Collectibles. Brenda Kruse did a fantastic
job and put together, what I consider, the ultimate collectors book. Kruse covers the "Green" company collectibles
and history from the very beginning to the recent pieces available during the 1990s. Research is very thorough
covering the different companies and product lines, local dealership pieces, ephemera, and of course toys.
Items sporting the John Deere logo or name range the gamut from the traditional giveaways such as ashtrays, pens, matchbooks, and watchfobs to the unusual ruby-red glass ornate salt and pepper shakers for a company picnic in 1907. |
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Although John Deere Collectibles emphasizes the older and rarer pieces, new collectors are not left out as many recent
items are also shown. I was delighted to find the Chad Little diecast race car that we have can sell for as much
as $100. at auction. AND I was really wondering why on earth my husband did not
get the first 1996 pewter medallion ornament that is now worth around $300. (He is a John Deere Construction Equipment Dealer)
Kruse's father-in-law, Jim Kruse -- a long time Deere Collector, inspired her to put this book together, the first major book covering Deere Collectibles.
But the John Deere Company made it easier by producing future collectibles for most of it's history by putting the Deere
name and logos on merchandise and ephemera from the very start. Certainly they were ahead of their time
by mentioning as early as 1916 "to make sure that farmers appreciate the value of John Deere souvenirs, a small charge is
made for them". John Deere distributed the souvenirs by including coupons with the farm equipment directions.
"Rarely does a brand reach the level of worldwide popularity that John Deere has since its humble
beginnings in Illinois" says author Brenda Kruse. "As a result of its stunningly successful history
since 1837, Deere & Company has established and maintained a loyal following of both customers and collectors." Some highlights from the book include: |
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