Question:
I was going through the attic recently & came across a box of Red Wing Rose dinnerware that had been my mothers. I remember her saying that it was "collectible"; so, I brought it downstairs & was washing it. In so doing I noticed that there were different markings on the backs of the different pieces. Some had a red wing with a number (these seemed to be older as the wing was pale pinkish), some said Red Wing Dinnerware/Ovenproof in black printing, and some only said Red Wing etched into the pottery (no color). I was curious to know what the difference in the various pieces was. It would seem that it was actually a collection and not just a purchased set of dinnerware. There are serving pieces along with the "place setting" pieces. I would really appreciate any information that you might be able to pass along. I am fascinated with this discovery! Thank you June

More info posted 31 August 09:

Answer: Red Wing Rose was one of ten patterns made in the Futura shape. It was introduced in 1958 and produced until 1960. Remaining stock continued to be available for the next few years.

The pinkish wing ink stamp mark was first used in 1950. It continued to be used until 1958 when the rather plain black Dinnerware/Ovenproof mark came into use. Your Red Wing Rose pieces marked with the pinkish wing would have been among the earlier pieces made. Ink stamps were used to mark flatware — plates, bowls, saucers and the like. The three digit ink-stamped number on the bottom of your flatware is not significant; it is believed to be a batch or lot code.

For hollowware such as pitchers and teapots the Red Wing mark was was part of the molding process. The "Red Wing USA" wording was included in the mold and was imparted to the piece when it was formed in the mold.

The different marks found on your various pieces have no significant influence on value. Some collectors may have a slight preference for the pink wing mark because it is older and not as common for this pattern.

You have a very good start to building a collection of Red Wing Rose dinnerware but like most collections it is not complete. You have 6 of each of the three plates, 8 cups & saucers, but only 2 sauce/fruit bowls and 1 cereal bowl. So you would need additional pieces to fill out the place settings to whatever number is desired. Other pieces of Red Wing Rose that were made but are not included on your list include 2 quart pitcher, teapot, beverage server with cover, trivet, gravy boat, rim soup bowls and 12" salad bowl as well as the missing shaker and butter dish bottom.

Approximate values for your pieces, assuming excellent condition:

Dinner plate $15, Salad and Bread/Butter plates $5-10, Cup & Saucer $10-12, Fruit/Sauce bowl $10, Cereal bowl $10, 15" platter $25-30, 13" platter $20-25, Divided Relish dish $20-25, Nappy (oval serving bowl) $15-20, Divided vegetable bowl $15-20, Casserole with cover $25-35, 1 quart pitcher $30-40, Sugar bowl with cover $10-15, Creamer $10-15, Salt & Pepper $25-40, Butter Dish $25-30.

Damage or missing parts will reduce these values significantly. Larry