Pottery

What Is McCoy Pottery: History, Collecting Tips

What Is McCoy Pottery

McCoy Pottery is a brand of pottery that was produced in the United States in the early 20th century.

It is the most collected pottery in the nation.

The pottery company was initially known as the Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Company, which was established in Roseville, Ohio in 1910.

In 1926, the company joined with other stoneware potteries to form the American Clay Products Company.

However, the ACPC was liquidated in the same year, leading to independent competition among former member potteries.

By 1929, the Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Co.

had changed its name to the Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Co.

The company began marking its wares in the late 1920s.

In 1933, it changed its name to Nelson McCoy Pottery Co.

Nelson McCoy Sr., Nelson Melick, and later Nelson McCoy Jr.

operated the pottery for 57 years until it was sold in 1967.

Since then, the pottery has changed ownership multiple times.

Did You Know?

1. McCoy Pottery, a famous American pottery company, was established in 1910 in Roseville, Ohio.

2. The name “McCoy Pottery” originated from the founder’s last name, Nelson McCoy, and the word “pottery” indicating their craft.

3. McCoy Pottery gained popularity for creating highly collectible, hand-decorated stoneware and art pottery.

4. One of their most iconic designs is the “Blossom Time” pattern, which features delicate pink dogwood flowers and was produced from 1947 to 1954.

5. McCoy Pottery also produced a series of quirky novelty items, including cookie jars shaped like various animals, such as frogs, cats, and pigs.

Introduction to McCoy Pottery

McCoy Pottery is a well-known brand of pottery that gained popularity in the early 20th century in the United States. It is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive designs, making it the most sought-after pottery in the country. The pottery originated in Roseville, Ohio, in 1910, founded by the Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Company.

Establishment and Expansion of McCoy Pottery

The Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Company, founded in Roseville, Ohio in 1910, initially specialized in producing various sanitary ware and stoneware products known for their exceptional quality. In 1926, the company joined forces with other renowned stoneware potteries to form the American Clay Products Company (ACPC), which allowed them to collaborate on pottery orders and expand their market reach through shared sales catalogs.

Unfortunately, the ACPC was liquidated in the same year, resulting in independent competition between the former member potteries. In response to these changes, the Nelson McCoy Sanitary and Stoneware Co. underwent a name alteration by 1929, becoming the Nelson McCoy Sanitary Stoneware Co. Additionally, during the late 1920s, the company began marking their wares, a practice they had not previously employed.

Name Changes and Leadership Transitions

In 1933, the company underwent another name change to the Nelson McCoy Pottery Co. This change was driven by the market’s evolving demands. Over the years, McCoy Pottery was managed by multiple generations of the McCoy family. Nelson McCoy Sr. played a significant role in the pottery’s success and was later joined by his son, Nelon Melick. Nelson McCoy Jr. eventually took over leadership and continued the family’s legacy. Remarkably, they collectively managed the company for 57 years until its sale in 1967.

  • The company changed its name to the Nelson McCoy Pottery Co. in 1933.
  • McCoy Pottery was operated by several generations of the McCoy family.
  • Nelson McCoy Sr. and Nelson Melick were both involved in the pottery’s operation.
  • Nelson McCoy Jr. assumed leadership of the pottery.
  • The family managed the company for an impressive 57 years.

Ownership Changes and Acquisitions

In 1967, the McCoy Pottery was acquired by the owners of the Mt. Clemens Pottery Co. This acquisition marked a new era for McCoy Pottery. In 1974, the pottery was purchased by the Lancaster Colony Corporation, bringing further growth and expansion opportunities.

Nelson McCoy Jr. retired from the pottery business in 1981, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. The architecture of McCoy Pottery’s success faced another shift in 1985 when it was sold to Designer Accents of New Jersey. This acquisition also led to the procurement of various other potteries, ensuring the continued production and availability of McCoy Pottery’s famous Floraline line, which was first introduced in 1960.

Trademark Issues and Legacy of McCoy Pottery

Over the years, there have been numerous attempts by individuals and companies to trademark the name “McCoy” for pottery. However, these applications were either cancelled or abandoned, emphasizing the exclusive rights and historical significance of McCoy Pottery. Today, McCoy Pottery continues to be highly regarded and desired by both passionate pottery enthusiasts and collectors.

In summary, McCoy Pottery is an iconic brand in the world of pottery. From its beginnings in Roseville, Ohio, to its expansion, name changes, and ownership transitions, the pottery’s evolution is a testament to its enduring appeal. With its rich history, collectible charm, and unparalleled craftsmanship, McCoy Pottery remains a beloved and highly sought-after treasure for collectors nationwide.


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Frequently Asked Questions

How can you tell McCoy pottery?

McCoy pottery can be identified through various marks. One distinguishing feature is the presence of an ink stamp reading “McCoy” or “McCoy USA,” found on some pieces. Additionally, early McCoy pottery may have been marked solely with a style number. A unique characteristic of McCoy pottery from 1957 is the use of a special ink stamp for pieces with a real, fired-on gold coating. These marks serve as indicators of genuine McCoy pottery and are valuable in recognizing and identifying the brand’s pieces.

Is McCoy pottery valuable?

McCoy pottery holds significant value in the antique collectibles market. This renowned pottery brand has gained a reputation for being highly sought after by collectors. Its appeal lies in the wide range of price points available, catering to collectors of all budgets. Whether it’s a rare and valuable piece or a more affordable find, McCoy pottery offers a variety of options that make it an enticing prospect for collectors of all types.

What kind of pottery is McCoy?

The McCoy pottery was known for producing high-quality utilitarian stoneware, which was in great demand until around 1918. Alongside their pottery production, McCoy also dabbled in the clay industry by buying, selling, and mining clay. Later on, McCoy pottery merged with eleven other stoneware potteries to establish the American Clay Products Company (ACPC) in Zanesville, Ohio. This collaboration marked a significant milestone for McCoy pottery, shaping its trajectory and influence within the industry.

Why is McCoy pottery so popular?

McCoy pottery has gained immense popularity due to its distinctiveness and rich history. The J.W. McCoy Pottery’s art pottery is highly cherished because of its unique designs and techniques that set it apart from other pottery. The wide range of pieces produced by the Nelson McCoy Pottery over the span of 75 years also contributes to its popularity, providing collectors with endless options and the ability to specialize in various categories based on their tastes and interests. This diversity and versatility make McCoy pottery highly sought-after by collectors worldwide.

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