Gurley Santa Candle Value Guide

The Gurley Santa Candle, produced by the Gurley Novelty Company of Buffalo, New York, is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana. These wax figurines are highly collectible for their whimsical 1950s aesthetic and their role as a staple of post-war Christmas decor.

What affects the value of Gurley Santa Candle?

• Condition of the paint, specifically looking for chips or 'flea bites' in the red suit or green sack.
• Presence and cleanliness of the original paper price tag or manufacturer label on the bottom.
• Storage quality, ensuring the wax has not melted, warped, or suffered from 'bloom' (a white powdery oxidation).
• Market demand for the specific 'Santa with green sack' pose compared to more common standing Santa variations.

How to Identify Gurley Santa Candle?

• Check the base for the original circular paper label featuring the Gurley Novelty Co. name and Buffalo, N.Y. location.
• Look for the specific 1950-1960 design featuring Santa Claus holding a distinct green sack over his shoulder.
• Examine the wax texture; authentic Gurley candles have a specific matte finish and weight characteristic of mid-century paraffin.
• Verify the wick is unburnt, as 'new old stock' examples with intact wicks are the standard for serious collectors.

History of Gurley Santa Candle

Gurley Novelty Company, founded in Buffalo, New York, became famous for its figural candles, especially during the mid-20th century. These candles, often depicting holiday characters like Santa Claus, were popular Christmas decorations. They are recognized for their distinctive wax and often whimsical designs, becoming cherished collectibles for those who appreciate vintage holiday decor.