Empire Santa Face Blow Mold Value Guide

The Empire Santa Face Blow Mold is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, produced by the Empire Plastic Corp. during the 1960s and 1970s. These illuminated plastic decorations are highly collectible today because they represent the peak of durable, affordable holiday cheer that defined suburban landscapes in the United States.

What affects the value of Empire Santa Face Blow Mold?

• Overall paint condition is critical, as these items often suffer from flaking or fading due to outdoor exposure.
• The presence of the original, functional light fixture and cord can significantly increase the market value toward the $150 range.
• Structural integrity, specifically the absence of cracks, dents, or melting around the light socket area, preserves the item's worth.
• Seasonal demand and nostalgic appeal often drive prices higher during the winter months compared to off-season sales.

How to Identify Empire Santa Face Blow Mold?

• Look for the raised Empire Plastic Corp. manufacturer mark and logo, typically found on the back or bottom of the plastic mold.
• Verify the presence of the original light cord assembly and the circular opening designed to house the internal bulb.
• Check for the specific 1960-1970 era paint style, which features a distinct rosy-cheeked Santa with a textured white beard and a bright red hat.
• Confirm the material is a rigid, weather-resistant blow-molded plastic characteristic of mid-20th-century production.

History of Empire Santa Face Blow Mold

Blow molds gained immense popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1950s to the 1970s, as an affordable and durable way to decorate for holidays. Empire Plastic Corp. was one of the most prolific manufacturers, producing a wide array of festive figures that became iconic symbols of holiday cheer across American homes. These lighted decorations evoke a strong sense of nostalgia for many.