Question:

Hi, 
 
I ran across your website while I was researching a crock I found at a local estate auction. I have attached photos of it. I was wondering if you would be able to give me an idea of what it might be worth?  There are no cracks, but as you can see, there are a few stains. I am curious as to if it’s acutally a reproduction because it doesn’t have the traditional “oval stamp” but rather an imprint with the company name. It also is not signed. Thus far I have not run across any others with the same design.
 
Thank You,
 
Ann

Answer:

Ann, you hit a home run on this barn burner!  You have a very rare Red Wing Stoneware Company 12 gallon double flower that is front stamped.  This is a very early Red Wing salt glazed piece most likely produced between 1878 and early 1890′s.  If your double flower crock is free of all chips, cracks and hairlines the value is quite high and may even scare you. The only thing going against its value that I see is the economy and the stains (especially on the front of the piece in the middle of the flowers).   Now this is my opinion, but I think the value of your absolutely stunning 12 gallon crock is between $18,000 & $20,000 (hopefully someone is around to pick you up off the floor).  If you should decide to sell it, your absolute best crack at getting the most for it would be at the July Convention in Red Wing, Minnesota.  If you are not a member of the Red Wing Collectors Society and you do wish to sell it, do yourself a huge favor and joint.  Your earth shaking salt glazed Red Wing crock should bring quite a bit of excitement to those collectors who read this Ask The Experts question and view your killer piece.  Thanks for sharing it.  Al Kohlman