Vintage Cookie Jars

When you look at vintage cookie jars its hard not to suddenly find a grin on your face. These little biscuit jars that have been around since the late 18th century whisper of another time from the Great Depression and first World War. The simplest cookie jars were made in glass with a metal lid, while others were hand painted, and others still became quite fanciful.

It was the 1930s when the public began to see what would become collectible cookie jars in all manner of shapes including Little Red Riding Hood. The first company to really step up the cookie jar game was Brush Pottery in Ohio, but it wasn't long thereafter that a variety of ceramic firms followed that lead. That means that the classic period for cookie jars is between 1940 and 1970.

One of the most famous makers of antique cookie jars was McCoy (another Ohio based firm). This company produced some very valuable pieces including the Mammy cookie jar. Mammy sells anywhere from several hundred dollars to nearly $2,000 depending on its condition.

Another company that made a mark on antique cookie jar history was American Bisque in West Virginia. Just after the depression American Bisque moved in with other successful collectible cookie jar makers using all manner of cartoon characters.

Collecting Collectible Cookie Jars Revival

When Andy Warhol decided to put his cookie jar collection up for auction it rekindled the public fascination with vintage cookie jar collecting. Warhol was no different than any other collector, having gotten most of his jars at flea markets. Nonetheless his collection turned into a $250,000 investment.

Besides the allure of a public figure enamored of cookie jars, there's also the childhood memories they evoke. It appeals to our nostalgic side.

 

Here are the current listings on eBay:

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