Antiques & Potteries Specialisms

Antiques & Potteries Specialisms

Antiques and potteries are our specialist subject matter at auction and we always know which items will fetch a good price at auction.  You can also find out more on our specialist potteries page for examples of interesting lots sold at auction.

Get in touch if you have similar or unusual items that need a valuation.

Top 25 Highest Selling Lots

Happy New Year to all our customers. Our first sale of 2017 was well supported despite the misty, cool weather.   Our best seller at this sale was Lot 251, a large collection of Anysley Orchard Gold items, which sold for £500.00. A collection of unmarked heavily glazed unframed tiles credited to Poole Pottery realised …

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Top 25 Highest Selling Lots

Our first Antique, Rare Pottery & Fine Art Sale of 2017 took place on Saturday 11th February and was extremely well attended despite a flutter of early morning snowflakes. The sale comprised of over 1100 lots of exceptional variety with the star lots of the day consisting of a number of pieces of Oriental Qing …

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March 11th 2017 Auction of 20th Century Pottery & Ceramics

Our March 11th Sale had a fabulous selection of items which was made up of over 1200 lots.  There was more than 300 unreserved tray lots and a large collection of Royal Doulton figurines which drew many interested bidders.   The saleroom was filled with a selection of good quality antique and reproduction furniture which …

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Royal Doulton Designer & Modeller: Charles J Noke

Charles J Noke Charles John Noke was born in 1858 in Worcester a short distance from the Royal Worcester works. Charles was the son of a well-respected antique dealer, who had one of the largest collections of old china in the country.  Charles Noke was fascinated with porcelain figurines and he spent time at the Royal Worcester factory watching …

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Fine Art & Antique Auction News

Selling at Auction If you have item you’re looking to sell at auction our staff is well-placed to provide valuations and advice on selling your items. Call 01782 638100 or email enquiries@potteriesauctions.com to book a valuation appointment to attend one of our Tuesday valuation days. We also provide valuations via WhatsApp, simply send some clear …

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Top 25 Highest Selling Lots

Our July 30th sale went really well, with a good turnout on a typical warm summers’ day.  A barbeque, kept everyone satisfied and well fed, with a choice of tasty burgers and sausage and bacon baps. Out of 740 lots, the Beswick and Moorcroft items were among our top sellers in this sale, with the …

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Moorcroft Pottery Guide: Identify, Collect & Value Your Pieces

Moorcroft pottery brings wonderfully bright colours and intricate designs to any home or collector’s display. At Potteries Auctions, we have been selling Moorcroft pottery, from rare vases to stunning lamps, for over 25 years. Moorcroft is highly prized by collectors, and its value has steadily increased over the years. If you are looking to expand …

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A Complete Guide to Spode Pottery, China & Marks

Discover the history, identification, and value of Spode pottery and china, including tips on backstamps, markings, and collectible pieces like Christmas dishes. Spode is one of the most iconic names in English ceramics. From classic tableware to collectible pieces, understanding Spode marks, backstamps, and patterns is essential for collectors and anyone looking to buy or …

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Is Royal Worcester Valuable? Prices, Figurines & China Guide (2026)

A Royal Worcester hand-painted fruit still life potpourri vase and cover by H. Ayrton

Royal Worcester is a porcelain brand based in Worcester, England. Established in 1751, they are believed to be one of the oldest remaining English porcelain brand still in existence today. Royal Worcester porcelain can range from decorative pieces worth under £100 to highly sought-after, artist-signed wares achieving thousands at auction. If you would like to …

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What Is My Royal Albert China Worth? Tea Sets & Patterns Buyers Want (2026 Guide)

Royal Albert china has remained one of Britain’s most recognisable and widely collected tableware brands for over a century. At Potteries Auctions, we have been valuing and selling Royal Albert tea sets, dinnerware, and fine bone china for more than 25 years, giving our specialists extensive knowledge of collector demand and current auction values. If …

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Railwayana Valuations & Auctions

Railwayana — the collectable artefacts and memorabilia associated with railways — offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of transportation, engineering, and industrial design. From early railway signs and tickets to model trains, lamps, and signage, these items are highly sought after by collectors, historians, and enthusiasts. At Potteries Auctions, we specialise in high-quality Railwayana …

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Arms, Armour & Militaria Valuations & Auctions

Arms, armour, and militaria have long fascinated collectors, historians, and enthusiasts, representing not only historical significance but also exceptional craftsmanship. From medieval swords and battlefield relics to 20th-century medals, uniforms, and firearms, these items are highly sought after by collectors worldwide. At Potteries Auctions, we specialise in the valuation and sale of high-quality and historically …

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Antique & Collectable Writing Instruments Valuations & Auctions

Writing instruments have been treasured for centuries not just as functional tools, but as symbols of craftsmanship, innovation, and personal style. From early dip pens and fountain pens to luxury ballpoints and rare inkwells, these items are highly collectable among enthusiasts, professionals, and heritage collectors. At Potteries Auctions, we have extensive experience handling antique and …

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Antique & Collectable Maps Valuations & Auctions

Antique maps offer a fascinating glimpse into history, geography, and the art of cartography. From 16th-century hand-drawn charts to 19th-century printed maps, these items are highly prized by collectors, historians, and interior enthusiasts alike. At Potteries Auctions, we have extensive experience handling antique and collectable maps at auction. Our specialists regularly assess maps of all …

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Antique Barometer: The Complete Collector’s Guide to Auction

Barometers have been both functional instruments and decorative objects for centuries, valued for their precision, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. From antique mercury wheel barometers to aneroid and stick barometers, these pieces remain highly collectable among enthusiasts and interior collectors alike. At Potteries Auctions, we have extensive experience handling barometers at auction, regularly valuing and selling …

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The Ultimate Guide to Swarovski Resale Value: What Sells, What Doesn’t, and How to Get the Best Price

Swarovski crystals are renowned for their dazzling sparkle, durability, and affordability compared to real diamonds. But do these beautiful crystals hold any real value in the resale market? Whether you’re a collector, reseller, or just curious about your old pieces, understanding what drives Swarovski resale value can help you make smarter decisions. In this guide, …

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Royal Doulton Markings Guide: Identify & Value Your Pottery

At Potteries Auctions, we have over 25 years of experience valuing and selling Royal Doulton pottery. This expert Royal Doulton markings guide will help you identify backstamps, understand pattern codes, and determine the age and value of your pieces. Whether you’re a collector, inheritor, or looking to sell Royal Doulton figurines or tableware, understanding markings …

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Why Collecting Swarovski Crystals is a Timeless Hobby

The excitement is building! Our Swarovski Crystal Auction on 9th April 2026 is set to feature some of the most exquisite pieces ever designed. Collectors and enthusiasts will not want to miss these iconic crystal figures. For over a century, Swarovski crystals have captivated collectors, designers, and enthusiasts worldwide. From sparkling figurines to elegant jewellery, …

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Top 5 Retired Swarovski Pieces to Watch in Our April Auction

The countdown is on! Our Swarovski Crystal Auction on 9th April 2026 is set to feature some of the most exquisite retired pieces ever designed. Collectors and enthusiasts alike will not want to miss these iconic crystal figures. Today, we highlight 5 standout lots that are expected to turn heads and possibly set new bidding …

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How to Identify Genuine Lorna Bailey Pottery and Get Your Pieces Valued

Lorna Bailey pottery is highly collectible, but with popularity comes imitation. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, knowing how to identify genuine pieces ensures you buy with confidence and protect your investment. This is something you can learn more about in our definitive collectors guide. If you would like to discover the value …

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Are Swarovski Crystals Worth Anything? Value & Selling Guide

Swarovski crystal figurines, jewellery, and collectables remain hugely popular — but many owners ask the same question: are Swarovski crystals actually worth anything? The answer is yes — but value varies significantly depending on rarity, condition, and collector demand. Some pieces sell for modest amounts, while rare or boxed collections can achieve hundreds of pounds …

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Buy Rare Royal Doulton Bunnykins Figurines

Royal Doulton Bunnykins figurines have become some of the most collectible and valuable pieces of British ceramics, with demand continuing to grow among collectors in the UK and worldwide. Originally introduced as nursery tableware in 1934, Bunnykins expanded into figurines in 1939, with just six early designs produced before the outbreak of WWII halted production. …

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