McCoy Frog Planter Value Guide

Period
1940-1960
Origin
United States
Materials
Ceramic, glaze

The McCoy Frog Planter is a quintessential example of mid-20th century American art pottery produced by the Nelson McCoy Pottery Company in Roseville, Ohio. Featuring a whimsical green frog holding a lily pad, these figural planters represent the peak of the company's decorative stoneware popularity between 1940 and 1960.

What affects the value of McCoy Frog Planter?

  • The presence of an authentic, legible McCoy or USA maker's mark significantly impacts the $85 market value.
  • Condition is critical; the absence of chips on the frog's eyes or the edges of the lily pad maintains peak collectible pricing.
  • The vibrancy and consistency of the green glaze, without significant crazing or fading, determines the final appraisal.
  • Historical provenance linking the piece to the original 1940-1960 production run in Roseville, Ohio.

How to Identify McCoy Frog Planter?

  • Look for the distinct 'McCoy' hallmark or 'USA' stamp typically found on the bottom of the ceramic base.
  • Examine the glaze for the characteristic mid-century green hue and smooth finish typical of Ohio-made stoneware.
  • Verify the figural details of the frog's posture and the lily pad shape against documented 1940s-1960s McCoy catalog designs.
  • Check for the weight and density of the ceramic, as authentic McCoy pieces have a substantial feel compared to modern reproductions.

History of McCoy Frog Planter

The McCoy Pottery Company, founded in Roseville, Ohio, was a prominent American ceramics manufacturer known for its decorative art pottery, stoneware, and planters. While the company's roots trace back to the late 19th century, their popular figural planters, like this charming frog, gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century. These whimsical designs were often mass-produced, yet their enduring appeal has made them sought-after collectibles today.

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