The McCoy pottery company's happy face cookie jar is a highly sought-after collectible, charming generations with its cheerful design and nostalgic appeal. This guide delves into the history, variations, and value of these iconic jars, helping you understand what makes them so special and how to identify genuine pieces.
What Makes McCoy Happy Face Cookie Jars So Collectible?
Several factors contribute to the enduring popularity and collectibility of McCoy happy face cookie jars:
- Nostalgia: Many associate these jars with childhood memories and simpler times, invoking a sense of warmth and comfort. The cheerful faces instantly evoke positive emotions.
- Unique Design: The simplistic yet expressive happy face design is instantly recognizable and highly appealing. The variations in glaze and color further enhance their desirability.
- Limited Production: While McCoy produced a significant number of these jars, they are no longer in production, making them increasingly rare, especially in excellent condition.
- Diverse Variations: Collectors appreciate the numerous variations in color, glaze, and even the happy face's expression, adding a layer of complexity to collecting. Finding specific variations can become a fun and rewarding pursuit.
Identifying Authentic McCoy Happy Face Cookie Jars
Authenticating McCoy pottery can be tricky, but here are some key features to look for:
- Markings: Genuine McCoy pieces typically bear a maker's mark, often a raised or impressed mark on the underside of the base. The mark might include the company name, a design number, or both. Knowing the different mark variations across the production years can be invaluable.
- Glaze and Color: Pay attention to the consistency and quality of the glaze. Authentic McCoy pieces generally exhibit a high-quality, even glaze. The colors should be vibrant and consistent, avoiding any unevenness or fading that might suggest a reproduction.
- Shape and Construction: Examine the overall shape and construction of the jar. Look for any inconsistencies or imperfections that might indicate a reproduction. Authentic McCoy pieces often display slight variations, but they should generally be well-proportioned and smoothly finished.
How Much Are McCoy Happy Face Cookie Jars Worth?
The value of a McCoy happy face cookie jar varies significantly depending on several factors:
- Condition: The condition of the jar is paramount. Minor chips, cracks, or crazing can substantially reduce value. A pristine, unmarked jar will command a much higher price.
- Rarity: Certain color variations and variations in the happy face itself are rarer than others, influencing their value.
- Demand: The current market demand for McCoy pottery, especially happy face cookie jars, fluctuates.
Determining the precise value often requires consulting experienced appraisers or referencing online auction sites and price guides. Condition is key; a mint-condition jar is worth significantly more than a damaged one.
What Colors Were McCoy Happy Face Cookie Jars Made In?
McCoy produced happy face cookie jars in a wide range of colors, including but not limited to:
- Yellow: A very common and popular color.
- Blue: Several shades of blue were used.
- Green: Various shades of green were also produced.
- Red: Less common than other colors.
- Pink: A relatively rare color.
The availability of specific colors varies greatly, impacting their collectability.
Where Can I Find McCoy Happy Face Cookie Jars?
You can find McCoy happy face cookie jars through various channels:
- Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These are excellent places to find vintage pottery, including McCoy pieces.
- Online Auction Sites: Sites like eBay often list McCoy cookie jars, allowing you to browse a wide selection.
- Collectible Shows: Attending collectible shows provides the opportunity to examine jars in person and potentially find rare variations.
- Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces can also offer a range of McCoy pottery, but careful vetting is essential to ensure authenticity.
Remember, always thoroughly research and carefully examine any McCoy happy face cookie jar before purchasing to verify its authenticity and condition. Happy hunting!
