Preliminary identification

McCoy Pottery Double-Handled Ruffled Vase in Sunburst Yellow

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic example of American Art Pottery featuring a vibrant yellow high-gloss glaze and a distinctive ruffled or 'pie crust' rim. This double-handled form is a quintessential piece of mid-century kitchen and parlor decor, designed to be both functional and cheerful.

Story

During the 1940s, Ohio was the pottery capital of the world. This vase was born from the clay of the Muskingum River Valley, designed to bring affordable sunshine into American homes during the post-war era.

Maker / Origin

The Nelson McCoy Pottery Company was a cornerstone of American ceramics for nearly a century. Known for their 'everyman' pottery, they survived the Great Depression by pivoting from industrial crocks to the colorful, decorative art pottery that collectors now cherish.

Condition & Value

The glaze appears remarkably bright and intact with no major chips visible on the rim or handles. The high-gloss finish has preserved the color well, though internal mineral staining from use with flowers is common. Excellent condition for this era can push it toward the higher end of the range.

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

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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
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.