Pottery

Is USA Pottery McCoy still valuable today?

Is USA Pottery McCoy

No, USA Pottery is not McCoy pottery.

McCoy pottery was produced in the United States from the early 20th century until 1991.

It was first established as the Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Company in 1910, and underwent name changes over the years.

The pottery was sold to Lancaster Colony Corporation in 1974 and then to Designer Accents of New Jersey in 1985.

Designer Accents marketed selected items previously made by McCoy pottery under the name Nelson McCoy Ceramics, but their trademark application for “Pottery” was canceled in 1997.

Although there have been individuals and companies who applied for the “McCoy” trademark for pottery, including Roger Jensen and Rosella Martin, their applications were canceled or abandoned.

Therefore, USA Pottery is not specifically McCoy pottery.

Did You Know?

1. USA Pottery McCoy is known for their iconic “mammy” cookie jars, which were designed with exaggerated features representing African-American women. These cookie jars are now highly sought after by collectors.

2. McCoy Pottery was influential in the development of the ceramic industry in the United States during the early 20th century. They pioneered the use of glazes and introduced innovative designs that set the standards for future pottery manufacturers.

3. McCoy Pottery is often credited with introducing “Sanitary and Fireproof Kitchenware” to the market in the 1920s. Their kitchenware line, which included mixing bowls, casseroles, and pitchers, was lauded for its durability compared to other available options.

4. McCoy Pottery faced financial difficulties during the Great Depression, leading them to produce a wide range of decorative items with intricate detailing. These pieces, known as “artware,” were popular due to their affordable price and intricate craftsmanship and helped the company remain afloat during challenging times.

5. McCoy Pottery has gained international recognition and was even selected to represent the United States at the prestigious World’s Fair in Paris in 1937. The company’s exhibits showcased their innovative designs and quality, further solidifying their place in the history of American pottery.

Mccoy Pottery: A Brief History

McCoy pottery holds a significant place in the history of American ceramic art. The Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Company, founded in 1910 in Roseville, Ohio, began the journey of this iconic pottery. With its roots in creating functional and durable items, McCoy pottery quickly gained popularity for its quality craftsmanship and distinctive designs. From the early 20th century until its closure in 1991, McCoy pottery shaped the landscape of American ceramics.

Name Changes And Ownership Transfers

Throughout its existence, McCoy pottery underwent several name changes and ownership transfers. In 1926, the American Clay Products Company, including the Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Company, went through liquidation. Subsequently, the pottery was renamed Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Co. in 1929 and later changed to Nelson McCoy Pottery Co. in 1933. These name alterations were accompanied by a steadfast dedication to producing high-quality pottery.

The ownership of McCoy pottery also changed over the years. In 1974, Lancaster Colony Corporation took over the company, followed by Designer Accents of New Jersey in 1985. These transitions allowed McCoy pottery to adapt to shifting market trends while maintaining its commitment to creating exceptional ceramic pieces.

To summarize:

  • McCoy pottery went through multiple name changes, including Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Co. and Nelson McCoy Pottery Co.
  • The brand has always been dedicated to producing high-quality pottery.
  • Ownership of McCoy pottery shifted to Lancaster Colony Corporation and later Designer Accents of New Jersey.

Trademark Applications And Cancellations

The name “McCoy” holds historical significance in the world of pottery due to the numerous trademark applications and cancellations. Several individuals and companies, including Designer Accents, Roger Jensen, and Rosella Martin, were involved in these trademark endeavors.

In 1992, Roger Jensen applied for a McCoy trademark, but unfortunately, it was canceled in 1999. Following this, Rosella Martin submitted her application in 1999 but eventually abandoned it in 2001. Notably, Designer Accents made two trademark applications but ended up abandoning both.

These trademark applications and subsequent cancellations highlight the value and importance attributed to the McCoy name in the pottery industry.

Designer Accents And The Mccoy Legacy

Designer Accents played a vital role in preserving and promoting the McCoy legacy. In 1985, they acquired McCoy pottery and continued to manufacture selected items under the name Nelson McCoy Ceramics. The company marketed these pieces, showcasing the timeless beauty and collectability of McCoy pottery. The partnership between Designer Accents and McCoy pottery ensured that the legacy of this renowned brand would endure.

Mccoy Pottery: The End Of An Era

Unfortunately, McCoy pottery came to an end in 1991 after nearly a century of creating remarkable ceramic pieces. The closure marked the conclusion of an era, leaving collectors and enthusiasts with an incredible catalog of pottery to cherish. While the production of McCoy pottery may have ceased, its impact on the American ceramic art world continues to resonate. The unique designs and exceptional craftsmanship of McCoy pottery make it a highly sought-after collectible today.

McCoy pottery’s rich history, including its numerous name changes, ownership transitions, trademark applications, and ultimately the end of production, has left an indelible mark on the field of American ceramics. From its humble beginnings in Roseville, Ohio, McCoy pottery captivated the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts across the nation. The legacy of McCoy pottery lives on through its enduring value and desirability in today’s antique and collectibles market.


Check this out:


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my pottery is McCoy?

To identify if your pottery is McCoy, you can look for specific marks. McCoy pieces may be stamped with “McCoy” or “McCoy USA.” Additionally, some early pieces may only have a style number as a mark. If your pottery has a special ink stamp with a real, fired-on gold coating issued in 1957, it is likely a McCoy piece. By examining these distinctive marks, you can determine if your pottery belongs to the McCoy collection.

How do I identify USA pottery?

Identifying USA pottery can be done by carefully examining the bottom of the piece. The bottom provides valuable information such as the name, clay color, firing technique, and other distinctive characteristics that aid in identification. By understanding these details, one can establish a connection between the pottery and its origin, allowing for accurate identification of USA pottery.

What kind of pottery is McCoy?

McCoy pottery is a renowned manufacturer of utilitarian stoneware that thrived until approximately 1918. Alongside producing high-quality pottery, they also engaged in the extraction, trading, and mining of clay. In a notable turn of events, McCoy pottery merged with eleven other stoneware potteries to establish the American Clay Products Company (ACPC) in Zanesville, Ohio. This partnership served as a pivotal point in their history, signaling a new chapter in their production and distribution capabilities.

What is the most popular McCoy Pottery?

One of the most popular McCoy Pottery items is the vintage flowerpot design. Known for its unique shape and vibrant colors, this particular piece captures the essence of retro aesthetics while adding a touch of whimsy to any décor. With its versatile functionality, the flowerpot serves as a cherished item for both collectors and gardening enthusiasts, making it a highly sought-after piece in the McCoy Pottery world.

Another coveted McCoy Pottery item is the intricately designed jardiniere. Renowned for its elaborate patterns and exquisite craftsmanship, the jardiniere serves as a centerpiece that adds elegance and sophistication to any home. Its timeless appeal and the meticulous attention to detail displayed in its artistic motifs make it a favorite among collectors worldwide. Whether used as a standalone decorative piece or filled with beautiful flowers or plants, the jardiniere continues to captivate the hearts of pottery enthusiasts and bask in its well-deserved popularity.

Related Articles

Back to top button

Adblock Detected

Looks like you're using an ad blocker. Please disable your Adblocker extension to keep the content flowing.