In 1970 or thereabouts they could be purchased from a wholesaler in the United States for $12.00 to $15.00 a dozen. I distinctly remember that because I "accidentally" purchased two dozen of them a few months before they became protected. I had ordered 2 specimens, but the supplier misread my order and sent me 2 dozen, and billed me, so I just payed the bill and kept them. Paul M.