Mccoy Pottery Value & Price Guide

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McCoy Pottery remains one of the most recognizable names in American ceramics, celebrated for its whimsical designs and functional kitchenware produced in Roseville, Ohio. From iconic cookie jars to vibrant floral planters, these pieces capture the charm of mid-century Americana and continue to be highly sought after by collectors.

Price Range: $45 - $60 based on recent sales

History of Mccoy Pottery

The Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Company was founded in 1910 in Roseville, Ohio, initially focusing on functional stoneware like jugs and crocks. By the 1930s, the company shifted its focus toward decorative art pottery and the whimsical cookie jars that would eventually define the brand's legacy during the mid-20th century. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, McCoy became a household staple across America, known for its creative shapes such as the Wishing Well planter and various animal-themed containers. Despite several ownership changes and the eventual closure of the original pottery in 1990, the brand remains a cornerstone of the Ohio River Valley pottery tradition.

Value Factors for Mccoy Pottery

The typical price range for Mccoy Pottery is $45 - $60 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Rarity of the design, with character-based cookie jars like the Pillsbury Doughboy or Mammy styles commanding premium prices.
  • Condition of the glaze, specifically the presence of vibrant colors and a lack of significant chips or repairs.
  • The era of production, as pieces from the 1940s and 1950s typically hold higher value than later mass-produced items.
  • Market demand for specific motifs, such as the highly collectible frog planters and floral tulip vases.

Tips for Buying Mccoy Pottery

  • Inspect the bottom for the authentic overlapping 'NM' or 'McCoy' marks, though be aware that some early pieces were unmarked.
  • Check for 'cold paint' loss on character cookie jars like the Clown or Mammy designs, as original paint significantly impacts desirability.
  • Look closely for hairline cracks and 'crazing' in the glaze, which are common in older McCoy pieces but can lower the resale value.
  • Verify the weight and glaze quality to distinguish authentic Ohio-made pieces from modern reproductions and 'fakes' often found at flea markets.

Items in This Collection

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