Royal Doulton Bunnykins Plate Value Guide

The Royal Doulton Bunnykins plate is a quintessential piece of English nurseryware, featuring the whimsical anthropomorphic rabbit illustrations originally created by Sister Mary Barbara. This specific era of production marks the transition into fine bone china, making these durable yet charming pieces a staple for christening gifts and childhood collections.

What affects the value of Royal Doulton Bunnykins Plate?

• Overall condition, specifically looking for 'utensil marks' or scratches on the central rabbit illustration.
• The rarity of the specific scene depicted, as certain human-like activities are more sought after by collectors.
• Presence of any chips, cracks, or fading to the vibrant colors of the fine bone china glaze.
• Market demand for vintage United Kingdom nurseryware within the $10 to $12 price bracket.

How to Identify Royal Doulton Bunnykins Plate?

• Check the underside for the Royal Doulton lion and crown backstamp indicating fine bone china construction.
• Verify the presence of the signature 'Bunnykins' script logo alongside the illustration style of Mary Barbara Bailey.
• Look for the specific 1968-1987 era markings which distinguish these from earlier earthenware versions.
• Examine the rim for the characteristic running rabbit border motif that encircles the central scene.

History of Royal Doulton Bunnykins Plate

Introduced in 1934, the Bunnykins line was originally designed by Mary Barbara Bailey, the daughter of a Royal Doulton general manager who later became a nun known as Sister Mary Barbara. Her whimsical drawings of rabbits in human situations became an instant success. Production transitioned from earthenware to bone china over the years, and the line remains one of the most popular christening gifts in the world.