Question:
Hi, I have a salt glaze side-stamped 20 gallon crock in as close to mint condition as I can imagine.  It has the 20 with a brilliant butterfly on it. Could I get some information? Era, rarity and possible value? Thanks, Dan Loken

Answer:
Dan, the Red Wing Stoneware Company manufactured salt glaze crocks between 1887 & 1894.  In the larger salt glaze crocks, the butterfly is the most common decoration produced by Red Wing.  Because of its beauty the Red Wing butterfly are always sought after by the salt glaze collectors.  With yours being mint or close to mint, and side stamped to boot (20% or less of these large crocks are found stamped) the value will be in the range of $2500 to $3000.  Al Kohlman