Other articles by Danielle Arnet:

: Autographed baseball glove isn't neat : N.J. wares find wider audience online : 'Goering' dagger calls for real proof Rarely seen items not always rare: Decorative platter could fetch $225 : Old jukeboxes can play a pricey tune : Bronze bust was common in Europe : No way cane was a gift from Lincoln : Golf-ball box memorable but worthless : Track down value without appraiser

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Q Any collector value to paperwork (menus, passenger list, etc.) from a first-class trip on the U.S.S. United States from New York to Le Havre in 1967?

A If demand runs the collector market (and it does), think: Who would pay for such items? And why?

The fact is that unless something newsworthy and remarkable happened on that voyage, or if the souvenirs include unusual or significant items not generally available, or if the ship was unique for some reason, the paper amounts to memories that matter to you. Perhaps children and/or grandchildren will enjoy learning about the trip.

Q This picture has been in my family for a long time. It came from a family originally in Beacon Hill, Boston. Signature is George C. Bell/88. Any info?

A The framed art, which shows a seascape with lighthouse and schooner, might be a print or original watercolor. Looking at a photo shot from a side angle and some distance, it's hard to spot the medium used.

Checking www.artfact.com, a database of auction results, we found only one George C. Bell listed. He was a woodcarver. Several George Bells have no auction record, and yet another was an Australian with a totally different style.

Smart collectors know that track record at auction affects price, either way. Minus results, interest is minimal. And family lore on a Beacon Hill pedigree does not ensure quality.

Lacking a record, the piece must be judged on its merits. Because the art is pleasing and the frame looks very good, I suggest taking several clear photos of the work and signature. Photograph it from all angles, and don't forget the back. Take the shots to a local gallery that you trust and ask for an opinion. Offer to pay for their expertise; it's only fair. Cost, if any, should be minimal. Walk away if it seems too high.

If the art does not have a pedigree, its value as a good decorative piece could still be attractive.