In a tragic move, The Franklin Mint, Wawa (formerly named Franklin Center), Pennsylvania, known the world over for its mass produced "collectibles," has closed its museum. This follows an announcement, reported by us in November, that the company was laying off 200 of its workers.

The Franklin Mint Museum was one of our favorite stops, a great attraction that got right to the heart of the question, "What does our society define as valuable?" It was located next to company HQ, and the parking lot was always close to full.

30 retail stores are also being closed, as the firm tries to downsize and restructure. Howard Lucker, general counsel, blamed growing competition from eBay.

The website, www.franklinmint.com will remain online.

[02/22/2004]