COPPER IS GOOD FOR YOU

Copper, according to a recent scientific study, has antimicrobial properties. That means Victorian copper hardware, plumbing pipes, copper pots and pans, and even copper jewelry of the past should be used in our new green world.

VETCRAFT MARK

Q: We have a very old hammered copper vase. The mark on the bottom is a triangle with a half sun and a fist holding a hammer. Any help would be appreciated.

A: Your copper vase was made by Vetcraft Shops of Toronto, Canada. This was one of several workshops set up by the Department of Soldiers Civil Re-establishment in Canada to provide jobs for disabled veterans of World War I. Vetcraft Shops were in business from about 1919 to 1925. Other workshops made furniture, toys, and the poppies that were given out on Memorial Day.

POLISHING COPPER

Never polish Arts and Crafts copper or pewter. Even if the patina is damaged, it's better than a cleaned piece. Original finish is important. The green or brown patina on a piece of Heinz Art and some others was added at the factory.