If you’re trying to identify a Beswick pottery figure, the backstamp on the base can help determine its age, authenticity and potential value. At Potteries Auctions, we have been selling Beswick figures and ceramics for over 25 years. From single animal models to extensive private collections, our specialists regularly handle rare and early examples, giving us detailed knowledge of Beswick marks, model numbers and market demand. If you would like to understand the value of your Beswick pottery, we offer free valuations and are happy to review images via WhatsApp for expert guidance.
Contact Us TodayBeswick marks changed several times throughout the 20th century, making it important to understand which version you’re looking at. In this guide, we explain how to recognise Beswick pottery marks, how to date your piece, and what those markings may indicate about rarity and value.
A Brief History of Beswick Pottery
Founded in 1894 in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, Beswick became one of Britain’s most recognisable ceramic manufacturers. Originally producing tableware and ornamental ware, the company later became famous for its highly detailed animal figures and character models.
In 1969, Beswick was acquired by Royal Doulton, and production eventually ceased at the original factory in 2002. However, Beswick pottery has always been a popular part of our auctions and we even had one of the world’s largest Beswick collections come through our saleroom which garnered plenty of interest and saw lots of rare pieces selling for high prices.
The size of this collection alone goes to show how wide ranging Beswick pottery is. The value and age of each piece needs to be carefully assessed to ensure it is appropriately estimated. Here at Potteries Auctions, we are proud to have been selected to sell this special collection; it goes to show our reputation is recognised worldwide.
Let’s look at Beswick Pottery in more detail and explore some popular markings to help you on your journey of pottery collector or seller.
Some of the most recognisable Beswick figures are from the Beatrix Potter collection. This adorable, rare Beatrix Potter Duchess with flowers figure (right) sold for £420, among other figures which proved very popular at our recent two-day Beswick special auction, where we helped to sell one of the biggest Beswick collections in the world! This rare Beswick Colin Melbourne clown on horse figure (left) also did very well, selling for an incredibly impressive £1600.
How to Date Beswick Pottery Using Backstamps
Beswick pottery marks evolved throughout the 20th century. By examining the wording, font style, layout and whether a model number is present, you can often narrow down the production period of your piece. There are various Beswick backstamps to look out for.
Early Beswick stamps, dating from the First World War onwards, simply have the words ‘Beswick England’ in a circle or oval shape. These will often be imprinted in green.
Moving on from this marking the oval shape was removed, and the words ‘Beswick Ware Made within England’ were added.
In 1954, Beswick started to use impressed markings, adding serial numbers. During this time, ‘BESWICK ENGLAND’ was used as a backstamp and you’ll find it appears in block capital with a serial number below it.
By the time the Beatrix Potter collection arrived, more information was needed on the stamp, including the Walt Disney Copyright, the series of figures, and the date it was created.
You’ll see in the picture below examples of the variation of dates, images and colours of Beswick backstamps throughout the years.
Photo Credit: Journal of Antiques
Do you recognise any of these markings on your pieces? If you need further support, Potteries Auctions can step in. We can help you identify the date and rarity of your Beswick pieces. We can also spot fakes and copycat pieces!
Beswick isn’t just known for its animal and character figures, this lively Beswick pottery model of a Sailboat (model 1633) sold for a respectable £85 in our fine art auction.
Why Is Beswick Pottery So Collectable?
Beswick remains popular for several reasons:
- Highly detailed animal models
- Beatrix Potter character figures
- Limited colour variations
- Strong international collector base
At Potteries Auctions, we have handled and sold some of the largest Beswick collections in private ownership, including rare Shire horses, character figures and colourway variations that have achieved significant prices at auction.
Rare colourways and early model numbers can command particularly strong results.
It is still highly sought after today and you’ll find pieces throughout many of our auctions. Following on from Beatrix Potter, Beswick began to manufacture a range of Disney characters, including Winnie the Pooh and Alice in Wonderland pieces. It’s important to note that when Beswick was sold to Royal Doulton, the backstamp was changed to the Royal Doulton backstamp.
Some of the old Beswick figures continued to be produced, but this new Doulton backstamp will appear instead of the Beswick markings. Beswick is also famous due to its animated and passionate group of collectors. Here at Potteries Auctions, we were honoured to sell one of the greatest Beswick collections, collected by Morris Abbot. Beswick collectors seem to have a real love for the brand and collect it because of the quality of the models and figures.
One of our unbelievable sales, this rare Beswick Shire Horse (818) in a strawberry roan coloursold for an astounding £6,700 at one of our Fine Art sales.
Are Beswick Figures Valuable?
The value of Beswick pottery depends on:
- Condition (chips, cracks or restoration reduce value)
- Rarity of the model
- Colour variation
- Backstamp type
- Presence of original box or paperwork
Rare examples, particularly early animal models or limited Beatrix Potter figures, can achieve strong prices at auction. More common later productions may carry more modest values.
Backstamps help establish age — but rarity and condition ultimately determine market demand.
How Much is My Beswick Worth?
The value of your Beswick piece will depend greatly on its condition and markings. Having certificates and original boxes can also increase the value. At Potteries Auctions, we can identify and provide valuations on a wide range of Beswick pieces. Our team can help value your collection, turn you into a collector or advise on how much your Beswick Pottery could be worth.
Please get in touch with us to discuss how we can help you or request a call back if you are looking for an expert evaluation and are seeking to sell your Beswick pottery. Alternatively, you can join us at one of our valuation days every Tuesday. Email us for an appointment on enquiries@potteriesauctions.com or call us on +44 (0)1782 638100 Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beswick Pottery Marks
The backstamp on the base is the best starting point. Early marks are simpler and may appear in green, while later examples include block capitals and impressed model numbers. After 1969, Royal Doulton backstamps replaced the Beswick mark.
Most Beswick figures are marked, but very early examples may show variations. Model numbers are often impressed into the base and can help identify specific designs.
Model numbers refer to specific figure designs and help identify variations in pose, size or colourway. These numbers are useful when researching rarity.
Some rare early runs and limited colour variations can achieve strong prices. However, later mass-produced examples may be more modest in value.
How to Sell Beswick Pottery at Auction
If you’re unsure about your Beswick mark or would like to understand what your figure could be worth, our ceramics specialists can help.
We hold regular free valuation days at our Silverdale and Cobridge salerooms. You can also send clear images of your pieces via WhatsApp for expert guidance.
Whether you have a single figure or an entire collection, we can advise on the best route to market.
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