Originally Posted by Gilly

You can do a Google and find out the exact reason why, but I'm sure it's some reference to The Great Depression.

As far as value, I've eBayed a lot and always find the best route is to do an advanced search on the item your are interested in selling and using similar pieces selling prices. Pay attention to unsold pieces as well. If a similar piece was a no sale for only a few bucks, best bet to dump it is St Vinnies or Good Will.
Or try selling it as a lot on Craigslist.
Gilly