The books I am preparing for publication will have a price guide. Yes, each and every figure must have a price code in its caption. Experienced collectors know that price codes can be misleading. For example, three "Sherratt" cows from the same molds have been on the market in recent months. One would have had a price code of A (under $1,000 or GBP 626), another a B ($1,000-$3,000) and the third a C ($3,000-$6,000). Each of these cows actually sold within its price bracket, and the price differences were justified by significant variations in quality and condition. But telling this from a photograph in a book is challenging...and that's one reason I find price codes frustrating.
The majority of early Staffordshire figures fall into price code A. Yes, most can be bought for under $1,000. Very many of them fall into this bracket because of condition. All those figures lacking limbs and bocages can make very interesting and affordable collections, but they are not particularly desirable. But among the price code A figures are some of the little gems that I treasure the most.
The majority of early Staffordshire figures fall into price code A. Yes, most can be bought for under $1,000. Very many of them fall into this bracket because of condition. All those figures lacking limbs and bocages can make very interesting and affordable collections, but they are not particularly desirable. But among the price code A figures are some of the little gems that I treasure the most.
The little turks in the slide show above can each be bought for under $1000. But finding one is another story. I think we don't value figures like this nearly enough. They add so much punch and interest to a collection.
Similarly, the little musicians below.
Similarly, the little musicians below.
These figures are not only cute. They are very interesting. All are "Sherratt" and are on typical "Sherratt" bases. We find these figures in other settings. For example, the man with the accordion stands on the platform of "Sherratt" menageries. And the other musicians appear in other "Sherratt" settings. These figures are much too cheap, given their rarity and appeal--so if you see one, buy it! But you don't need me to tell you that. The figures sell themselves. Finding one is the tricky bit.
We are all familiar with large figures of Elijah and the Widow, and a fine pair deserves a place in any collection. But have you noticed the tiny pair in the stock of David Boyer and Ivan Mears?
We are all familiar with large figures of Elijah and the Widow, and a fine pair deserves a place in any collection. But have you noticed the tiny pair in the stock of David Boyer and Ivan Mears?
For the price, you can buy a large pair with issues. Or you can buy this small pair. Tiny treasures? You decide.
