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Preliminary identification

Starbucks 'Coffee Stories' Chapter 3 Ceramic Travel Mug, 2018

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

This 12 oz double-walled ceramic traveler is part of the limited-edition 2018 'Coffee Stories' series. It features the vibrant, geometric mural art of Baltimore-based duo Jessie & Katey, specifically representing 'Chapter 3: Blending.'

Story

In 2018, Starbucks invited four artists to Seattle to witness the journey of a bean. Jessie & Katey captured the 'Blending' stage, creating this explosion of color that mirrors the complexity of the signature Pike Place Roast.

Maker / Origin

Jessie Unterhalter and Katey Truhn are a Baltimore-based artist team known for transforming public spaces with massive, playful geometric murals. Their work focuses on movement and symmetry, often turning gray urban corners into immersive 'chromatic experiences.'

Condition & Value

The mug appears to be in excellent condition with the original lid intact. No visible chips or fading to the vibrant graphic. Keeping the lid is essential for maintaining its value as a functional collectible. Limited edition artist collaborations from Starbucks maintain a dedicated collector base.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD