Lefton Figurine Value & Price Guide

Lefton figurines are cherished by collectors for their whimsical charm and delicate craftsmanship, originating from the mid-20th century. These porcelain treasures range from festive holiday angels to detailed animal figures, representing a golden era of Japanese-made ceramics imported to America.

Price Range: $25 - $33 based on recent sales

History of Lefton Figurine

Founded by George Zoltan Lefton in Chicago in 1941, the Lefton Company became a pioneer in importing Japanese ceramics after World War II. Lefton's appreciation for fine porcelain led him to partner with Japanese kilns to produce high-quality, hand-painted figurines that were affordable for the average American household. The company is perhaps best known for its 'Blue Boy' and 'Pinkie' series, as well as its iconic Christmas collectibles and Kewpie dolls. Throughout the mid-century period, Lefton expanded its catalog to include everything from lady head vases to the popular Colonial Village series. While production eventually shifted to other parts of Asia and the company was sold in the early 2000s, the vintage pieces marked 'Occupied Japan' or featuring the classic foil labels remain the cornerstone of the brand's legacy in the collectibles market.

Value Factors for Lefton Figurine

The typical price range for Lefton Figurine is $25 - $33 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition and Paint Quality: Pieces with intact cold-paint accents and no crazing or chips command the highest prices.
• Rarity of Theme: Holiday-themed items like Christmas angel bells and specific character figures like Kewpies or leprechauns often outperform generic animal figurines.
• Age and Origin: Figurines marked 'Occupied Japan' (produced between 1945 and 1952) carry a historical premium for serious collectors.
• Completeness: For items like bells or musical figurines, having the original clapper or a functional music box mechanism is essential for maintaining full market value.

Tips for Buying Lefton Figurine

• Look for the original red and gold foil 'Lefton's Exclusive Japan' sticker, which significantly increases the item's authenticity and value.
• Inspect the base for a stamped alphanumeric identification number, typically starting with a letter followed by four digits, to verify the specific production series.
• Check closely for 'flea bites' or small chips on delicate protruding parts like angel wings, flower petals, or animal ears, as these are common points of damage.
• Prioritize pieces from the 1950s and 1960s, as these eras are generally considered the peak of Lefton's artistic quality and are most sought after by enthusiasts.

Items in This Collection

• Lefton Hand Vase
• Lefton Musical Figurine
• Lefton Rooster Figurine
• Lefton Santa Napkin Holder
• Lefton Leprechaun Figurine
• Lefton Kewpie Figurines
• Lefton Bunny Figurine
• Lefton Porcelain Figurine
• Lefton Rabbit Figurine
• Lefton Christmas Bell
• Lefton Angel Figurines
• Lefton Colonial Village Figurines
• Lefton Lady Head Vase
• Lefton Rabbit Figurines
• Lefton Kewpie Doll
• Lefton Cardinal Figurine
• Lefton Nurse Figurine
• Lefton Kewpie Figurine
• Lefton Piggy Bank
• Lefton Christmas Angel Bell