Forster Croquet Set Value Guide

The Forster Croquet Set is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, produced by the Maine-based Forster Manufacturing Company. These sets are highly collectible for their durable hardwood construction and their role in defining 20th-century backyard leisure culture.

What affects the value of Forster Croquet Set?

• Completeness of the set, specifically the presence of all six mallets, six balls, two stakes, and the original rolling cart.
• The condition of the paint on the mallet stripes and balls, as vibrant colors command higher prices than faded or chipped examples.
• Structural integrity of the hardwood, including a lack of cracks in the mallet heads or warping in the storage cart.
• Market demand for mid-century sporting goods, with sets in excellent condition reaching the $250-$275 price range.

How to Identify Forster Croquet Set?

• Look for the Forster Manufacturing Company branding or logo, typically located on the rolling wooden cart or the mallet heads.
• Verify the set includes the original six hardwood mallets with distinct colorful painted stripes and matching balls.
• Check for the signature rolling wooden storage cart designed specifically to hold the mallets, balls, and metal stakes.
• Confirm the materials are authentic 1960s-1970s era hardwood and metal rather than modern plastic components.

History of Forster Croquet Set

Forster Manufacturing Company, founded in Maine in 1887, was originally known for producing toothpicks and clothespins before expanding into wooden sporting goods. Their croquet sets became a staple of American lawn culture in the mid-20th century, known for their durable hardwood construction and colorful striped mallets.