Silverdale saleroom: 01782 638100

Cobridge saleroom: 01782 212489

Susie Cooper Pottery: History, Rare Patterns & Value Guide

Hannah Widdop

When it comes to British pottery, few names shine as brightly as Susie Cooper. A pioneer in ceramic design whose career spanned more than seven decades, Cooper’s work bridged the gap between the traditional and the modern.

If you would like to discover the value of your collection, our specialists are happy to help, request a free valuation today or send us images via WhatsApp for expert advice.

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Is Susie Cooper Pottery Valuable?

Yes – Susie Cooper pottery remains highly collectible, with some pieces fetching hundreds of pounds at auction. Value depends on:

  • Pattern rarity – Early 1930s and Art Deco designs like Leaping Deer or Red Wedding Band are most sought-after.
  • Age – Pieces from the 1920s–1940s generally attract the highest prices.
  • Condition – Chips, cracks, or repairs lower value significantly.
  • Completeness – Full sets (tea sets, dinner sets, coffee sets) are worth more than individual items.

💡 Example: Early hand-painted tea sets can sell for £20–£150, while rare coffee sets may fetch £50–£160 or more.

Susie Cooper Price Guide

Here’s a quick overview of typical auction values:

ItemEstimated Auction Value
Tea Set (teapot, cups & saucers)£20–£150
Coffee Set (14-piece)£50–£160
Rare 1930s Patterns£100–£300+
Individual Plates or Bowls£10–£50

Most Valuable Susie Cooper Patterns

Collectors are particularly interested in:

  • Leaping Deer – Art Deco motif, 1930s.
  • Red Wedding Band – Elegant dinnerware series.
  • Lustre Vine Pattern – Vibrant and rare decorative sets.
  • Tree Design Bread Plate – Popular among early collectors.
  • Crown Works Burslem Floral Designs – Post-1940s, still collectible.

Owning one of these patterns can significantly increase your auction value.

Susie Cooper Tea Set Value

Tea sets are among the most sought-after Susie Cooper items:

  • Complete sets: Highest value if all pieces match and are damage-free.
  • Individual pieces: Single teacups or cream jugs have lower value but still attract collectors.
  • Rare finishes: Lustre, silver, or gold detailing adds extra value.

Tip: Keep original trays or boxes — they can boost auction prices.

Who Was Susie Cooper?

Susie Cooper (1902–1995) was a British ceramic designer from Burslem, Staffordshire, the heart of The Potteries. After studying at Burslem School of Art, she began her career in 1922 at A.E. Gray & Co., quickly progressing from painter to designer.

In 1929, Cooper launched Susie Cooper Pottery, gaining full creative control over shapes and decorations. She revolutionised tableware with:

  • Modern, functional shapes
  • Stylised floral and geometric motifs
  • Art Deco aesthetics adapted for British homes

Her designs became household names and were stocked by Harrods and Selfridges.

How to Identify Susie Cooper Pottery

Look for these features on your pieces:

  • Backstamps & signatures – Often includes “Susie Cooper” or initials.
  • Shape & style – Sleek, modern lines and Art Deco designs.
  • Pattern details – Rare motifs like Leaping Deer or Lustre Vine.
  • Marks on the base – Production information and sometimes artist initials.

Identifying these features can help determine value before an auction.

Recent Auction Examples

  • Lustre Vine Pattern Dinner Plate & Tree Design Bread Plate – Estimate £20–£40
  • Silver Lustre Breakfast Set – Estimate £30–£60
  • 14-Piece Red Wedding Band Coffee Set – Estimate £80–£160
  • Pink Dresden Spray Dinner Plates (Set of 6) – Estimate £30–£60
  • Crown Works Floral Design Part Dinner Set – Estimate £50–£100

How to Buy or Sell Susie Cooper Pottery

At Potteries Auctions, we offer:

  • Free valuations every Tuesday (Silverdale) and Thursday (Cobridge)
  • Private valuations for premium items
  • UK-wide collection and shipping

📩 Email: enquiries@potteriesauctions.com
📞 Call: +(44)1782 638100
📱 WhatsApp: 07864 667940 (send photos for valuation)

💡 Keep an eye on our upcoming auctions page to discover new Susie Cooper lots or submit your pieces for sale.

Frequently Asked Questions About Susie Cooper Pottery

Is Susie Cooper pottery valuable?

Yes, particularly early 1930s designs, rare patterns, and complete sets.

What are the rarest Susie Cooper patterns?

Leaping Deer, Red Wedding Band, Lustre Vine, and Crown Works floral designs.

How much is a Susie Cooper tea set worth?

£20–£150 for typical sets, more for rare or early designs.

Where can I sell Susie Cooper pottery?

Potteries Auctions offers valuations and consignments for all Susie Cooper pieces.

How do I get a valuation?

You can:
Submit images through our online valuation form
Send photos via WhatsApp 07864 667940
Book an in-person appointment
Email: enquiries@potteriesauctions.com

Deadline for entries to our July Rare Ceramics, Jewellery & Collectables auction: 20th MayBook a valuation
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