Bradford Angel Tree Topper Value Guide

The Bradford Angel Tree Topper is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, manufactured in Japan during the 1950s and 1960s. These toppers are highly collectible for their delicate hand-painted porcelain faces and the nostalgic glow of their internal electrical lighting components.

What Is Bradford Angel Tree Topper Worth?

The typical price range for Bradford Angel Tree Topper is $30 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the delicate lace and fabric dress, as staining or tearing significantly reduces the $30-$50 market value.
• Functionality of the internal electrical components and the integrity of the original wiring.
• Presence of the original mid-century packaging, which can push the value toward the higher end of the $50 range.
• Clarity and preservation of the hand-painted facial features on the porcelain head.

How to Identify Bradford Angel Tree Topper?

• Check for the original 'Made in Japan' stamp or sticker, typically found on the base or inner plastic frame.
• Examine the face for hand-painted porcelain details, a hallmark of authentic Bradford production compared to later all-plastic versions.
• Verify the presence of the internal light socket and original wiring designed to illuminate the angel's lace and fabric gown.
• Look for the specific Bradford brand markings on the original box or the structural plastic cone used for tree mounting.

History of Bradford Angel Tree Topper

During the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1950s to the 1970s, lighted Christmas tree toppers like this Bradford angel were extremely popular. Manufacturers such as Bradford, Noma, and Holt Howard produced a wide variety of these decorative pieces, often featuring hand-painted porcelain or plastic faces, elaborate fabric dresses, and internal lighting to illuminate the top of the Christmas tree. These toppers became iconic symbols of holiday decor, embodying the festive spirit and craftsmanship of the era.