Question:
I have a piece I am not positive how to describe. It is of the sunflower and wheat pattern. It has two handled "teapots" one atop the other. It has a strainer that lays within the lower pot. The pattern is only on the upper portion. I have only seen the lower portion offered as a "teapot" on line($48.00). I do not believe it is a teapot. The two pieces together stand around 15 inches or so. I dont think the top has a spout. I am going from memory here as my ex will not return it and has been in the family for years. I am looking for a value that I can turn over to my lawyer. Of course dollars will never replace the family value. Hoping you can help me. Thanks so much Susie Snider

Answer: I believe the item you’ve described is the one of the three Dripolators that Red Wing introduced in 1943 as part of their expansive Gypsy Trail Hostess Ware line. The Dripolator was used to brew coffee. Coffee grounds were placed in the upper strainer section, which rested on the lower pot section. Hot water was poured into the upper section and brewed coffee dripped into the pot. When finished the upper strainer section could be removed and the cover could be placed on the pot for serving. The strainer section is often missing from these Dripolators when they are found today, leading people to think they are teapots.

The Dripolators do not match a particular dinnerware pattern or have a specific name; they were intended to be used alone or with any of the four Gypsy Trail dinnerware patterns. The three Dripolators are bottom marked RED WING USA and either 252, 253 or 254. I believe the Dripolator you’ve described is # 254. The asking price in antique stores for a 254 Dripolator in excellent condition can range up to $150, but from my experience they usually sell for around $40-60.

Larry