Landers Frary and Clark Universal Coffee Percolator Value Guide

The Landers Frary and Clark Universal Coffee Percolator is a hallmark of early 20th-century American kitchenware, representing the transition to modern brewing methods. Crafted in New Britain, Connecticut, these copper vessels are highly collectible for their durable construction and the distinct 'Universal' branding that defined the era's household innovation.

What Is Landers Frary and Clark Universal Coffee Percolator Worth?

The typical price range for Landers Frary and Clark Universal Coffee Percolator is $75 - $95 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of the original glass topper or 'percolator knob' significantly increases the market value.
• Overall condition of the copper, specifically the absence of heavy denting or corrosive 'pitting' in the metal.
• Completeness of the set, as these were often sold with matching trays or cream and sugar sets which elevates the $75-$95 individual price point.
• The clarity and legibility of the stamped manufacturer hallmarks and 'Universal' branding.

How to Identify Landers Frary and Clark Universal Coffee Percolator?

• Look for the 'Universal' brand name stamped clearly on the metal, typically on the base or the handle assembly.
• Verify the material is genuine copper, which may show a natural aged patina or a polished reddish-orange hue characteristic of the 1900-1920 period.
• Check for the Landers, Frary, & Clark manufacturer mark, often accompanied by patent dates from the early 1900s.
• Inspect the internal percolating mechanism, including the central stem and basket, to ensure they are original to the copper body.

History of Landers Frary and Clark Universal Coffee Percolator

Landers, Frary, & Clark was a prominent American manufacturing company based in New Britain, Connecticut, active from the mid-19th century through the mid-20th century. They were known for a wide range of household goods, including cutlery, kitchenware, and electrical appliances under the 'Universal' brand. Their coffee percolators, often made of copper or nickel-plated copper, were popular household items during the early 20th century, a period when percolators were a common method for making coffee before the widespread adoption of automatic drip coffee makers.