Question:

Thank you for your time and expertise. I am in possession of the 3 test plates for the Spruce pattern dinnerware. I realize some test plates are of great value and wonder what these may be worth? The center plate has a very small chip. I have sent 2 photos of the chip as well.

Thank you,

Victoria

Answer:

These plates have handwritten codes on the bottom, which was standard practice for Red Wing test plates.  The artwork and base color of these plates leaves no doubt they were made as test or sample pieces for the Spruce pattern.

It’s difficult to place a value on a one-of-a-kind item like a test plate. Based on prices realized at auction for test plates for other Red Wing patterns in recent years, I’d place the value at $400 to $600 per plate.  The small chip on one of the plates would reduce the value to the low end of that range.

Larry