There's Still Money In Shells

Trochus and mother-of-pearl shell markets may he depressed, hut •e is still money in shells of the collector type.

According to a report received in Suva in November, a golden He shell found in that Colony, brought %&s—£26 —at an auction of Is in-New York.

No information was available as to whether this and other shells up for auction were a consignment recently received from Fiji, whether they were a collection of older vintage changing hands.

A few people in the South Pacific are known to he trading in actors’ shells —there is one in the Cook Islands and at least one 'iji—but on the whole very little interest seems to be taken in this

ily profitable sideline.

A “PIM” representative was shown samples of tiny and quite un ressive shells—the golden cowrie raises little enthusiasm—worth e fabulous sums. The value is governed largely by the rarity. Like ip collecting, a knowledge of what is wanted and who wants it is ntial, hut there are hooks available —and perhaps some very profit pickings—for those interested in this pleasant hobby.