Commission to sell pieces of state's Capitol dome

LANSING (AP) - The public will have a chance to buy pieces of Michigan's Capitol dome that are being replaced as part of a restoration.

The Michigan State Capitol Commission decided Tuesday to make available about 100 modillions, which are ornamental blocks or brackets. They're from the original 19th century construction of the Capitol, and hundreds of decorative sandstone pieces are being replaced in a $6.5 million overhaul of the dome.

Commissioner Kerry Chartkoff says there will be interest in the pieces, even in a deteriorated state. Items were sold after the last major Capitol restoration in 1992, and she says seemingly worthless items were popular.

The Lansing State Journal reports 50 of the modillions will be available for $100 in a lottery, while 50 more will be auctioned with a $100 minimum bid.

Published: Thu, Sep 24, 2015