Question:
I was given an incomplete set of Red Wing dinnerware that I would like to sell. I would like to verify – is it the Pink Morning Glory pattern in the Concord series and was the pattern discontinued in 1947? If so, what is the range of the possible collective value of all of the pieces? Any other informtaion you can give me would be appreciated. Pieces: 1 serving platter (some water marks(?) on it and background network of cracks, 1 relish tray (excellent condition), 1 divided relish tray (2 small chips on rim), 1 casserole dish (no lid, faint background network of cracks), 1 small gravy boat or creamer (excellent condition), 1 sugar bowl with lid (excellent condition), 4 large dinner plates (background network of cracks and some water marks), 8 small salad plates (1 excellent condition, 7 with background network of cracks and some water marks), 7 saucers (1 with crack, all with background network of cracks), 8 small bowls (1 greatly discolored [brown] and some chips on rim, 4 more with chips on rim, and 3 with no chips – all 8 with background network of cracks), 8 tea cups (7 excellent condition, 1 with background cracks). These pieces say "Red Wing Pottery Hand Painted" on the bottom. The background cracks are not obvious until you look at them within a couple of feet or even up really close, except for the one small bowl that has a dark, stained, cracked area. Thank you!

Answer:
Yes, the items in the photo are Morning Glory Pink, one of many patterns made in the Concord shape. 1947 would mark the beginning of Morning Glory production, not the end. The pattern was discontinued sometime prior to 1954. Thank you for your thorough description of the pieces — that helps very much. The rectangular piece in the photo is a celery dish and it’s the most valuable piece in your collection at around $25. The sugar and creamer in excellent condition are worth $25 to $35.

The other pieces in your collection are common, easily found pieces and most have some damage. Several pieces are described as having "network of cracks with water marks". Most likely this is crazing, fine cracks in the glaze that allow liquids to pass through the glaze and into the clay below. Crazing and stains will reduce values considerably, as will chips, cracks and missing parts. I’d place the value of this collection at no more than $100, with the caveat that it is difficult to gauge damage without seeing it. If the crazing/staining isn’t as bad as I expect it is, the value might be a $25 to $50 higher.

Larry