If you’re an avid collector of Norman Rockwell plates, you must be wondering which ones are truly valuable. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most sought-after and valuable plates by Norman Rockwell. We’ll also guide you on what to look for when purchasing these collector’s items.
Identifying Valuable Norman Rockwell Plates
As a popular collector’s item, Norman Rockwell plates are often sought after by collectors. However, many of them do not hold significant monetary value since they are not typically produced in limited quantities. Nevertheless, there are a few specific Norman Rockwell plates that you should keep an eye out for.
One of the most famous and expensive plates by Norman Rockwell is the one featuring his artwork “The Music Maker.” In a recent sale, this plate fetched an astounding $1300, making it highly coveted among collectors.
Source: eBay.com / Seller: lovelee9786
The Value of the Norman Rockwell Music Maker Plate
The Norman Rockwell Music Maker plate holds significant value due to its limited edition status. Produced in 1981 as part of the Heritage series by Knowles, this plate depicts Rockwell’s remarkable painting “The Music Maker.” The artwork showcases an elderly man teaching a young boy how to play the accordion. Plates in mint condition can easily fetch over $1000. Some plates may even possess higher value if they bear the hand-signed signature of Rockwell himself or are from Rockwell’s estate.
Apart from the Music Maker plate, there are other Norman Rockwell plates that are worth a few hundred dollars. These include:
- “Hanging the Wreath” – Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Plate, Limited Edition, 1974.
- “The Carolers” – Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Plate, Limited Edition, 1972.
- “Dreaming in the Attic” – Norman Rockwell’s Rediscovered Women.
Each of these plates boasts unique artworks by Norman Rockwell and can be found for sale on various online marketplaces. Their prices typically range from $15 to $300, depending on their rarity and condition.
Framed Franklin Mint Norman Rockwell Plates
Franklin Mint Norman Rockwell plates are often considered collectible art pieces and are frequently showcased in frames. These plates are carefully mounted with a mat in a frame and protected by glass to prevent any damage. The frames themselves can be made of various materials, such as wood or metal, and are designed to complement the artwork on the plate.
Some collectors prefer displaying their plates individually, while others opt for creating a collage of plates to form a larger display. Framed Franklin Mint Norman Rockwell plates are available for sale on online marketplaces and at antique shops. The price of a framed plate depends on factors like its rarity, condition, and demand from collectors.
Centennial Norman Rockwell Plates
To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Norman Rockwell’s birth, a series of collector’s plates was released in 1993. This “Centennial” collection consists of eight plates, each featuring a different Rockwell painting. Produced by the Bradford Exchange, these plates were made in limited editions and are marked with the Bradford Exchange hallmark, the year of production, and the name of the painting. Some notable plates in this series include “The Toy Maker,” “The Cobbler,” and “The Storyteller.” As of April 2023, these “Centennial” Norman Rockwell plates are being sold for approximately $20 to $50 on various online marketplaces.
Storyteller Norman Rockwell Plates
“Storyteller” is a famous painting created by Norman Rockwell in 1961. Over the years, this painting has been reproduced on several collector’s plates. One such plate was produced by Knowles China in 1986 as part of the Rockwell Heritage Collection. It is marked with the Knowles China hallmark, the year of production, and the words “Eighth in the Rockwell Heritage Collection.” As of April 2023, “Storyteller” Norman Rockwell plates are being sold for around $10 to $30 on various online marketplaces.
Other Valuable Plates
Apart from the aforementioned plates, there are additional valuable Norman Rockwell plates that are worth noting. These include:
- “Under the Mistletoe” – Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Plate, Limited Edition, 1971.
- “Trimming the Tree” – Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Plate, Limited Edition, 1973.
- “Home for Christmas” – Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Plate, Limited Edition, 1975.
- “A Young Girl’s Dream” – Knowles 1985.
- “Bringing Home the Tree” – Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Plate, Limited Edition, 1970.
The value of these plates can vary greatly, ranging from $100 to $400, depending on their rarity, condition, and demand from collectors.
Norman Rockwell Plate Sets
Norman Rockwell plate sets are produced by various manufacturers, with Gorham, Knowles, and the Franklin Mint being some of the most notable ones. Let’s explore some of the most valuable Norman Rockwell plate sets:
Knowles Norman Rockwell Plates
Knowles Norman Rockwell plates constitute a series of collector’s plates crafted by the Edwin M. Knowles China Company. Featuring numerous paintings by Norman Rockwell, including some of his most famous works, these plates were produced in limited editions. They bear the Knowles China hallmark, the year of production, and the name of the painting. “The Cobbler,” “The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter,” and “The Music Maker” are just a few examples of the plates in this series. Knowles Norman Rockwell plates are highly sought after by collectors and can be worth up to $30 each, depending on their condition and rarity.
Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Norman Rockwell Plates
Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Norman Rockwell plates are exceptionally valuable due to their limited edition status, superb craftsmanship, and the enduring popularity of Norman Rockwell’s artwork. Produced in limited quantities, these plates are rare and highly desirable among collectors. Moreover, their composition of solid sterling silver further adds to their value and desirability. Considering Norman Rockwell’s status as one of the most beloved American artists of the 20th century, it’s no wonder that these plates appeal to collectors across all age groups. Franklin Mint Sterling Silver Norman Rockwell plates command high prices, with certain plates fetching hundreds of dollars each.
Gorham Norman Rockwell Plates
The Gorham China Company is responsible for producing Gorham Norman Rockwell plates, another prized series of collector’s plates. These plates feature a variety of Norman Rockwell paintings, including some of his most renowned works. Just like the Knowles plates, Gorham Norman Rockwell plates were produced in limited editions and bear the Gorham hallmark, the year of production, and the name of the painting. Collectors highly covet these plates due to their limited edition status, superior craftsmanship, and the widespread appeal of Norman Rockwell’s artwork. Adding to their value and allure is the fact that Gorham is a well-regarded and esteemed china company.
Norman Rockwell “Rediscovering Women” Collectors Plates
The Bradford Exchange presents the Norman Rockwell “Rediscovering Women” Collectors Plates. This collection showcases a range of paintings by Norman Rockwell, all portraying women in various roles and situations. Produced in limited editions, these plates bear the Bradford Exchange hallmark, the year of production, and the name of the painting. Examples from this series include “Pondering on the Porch,” “Waiting on the Shore,” and “Dreaming in the Attic.” The limited edition status, the enduring popularity of Norman Rockwell’s artwork, and the theme celebrating the vital roles women play in society contribute to the high collectability of these plates.
Sterling Silver Limited Edition Norman Rockwell Plates
Several companies, such as the Franklin Mint and Gorham, have produced Sterling Silver Limited Edition Norman Rockwell Plates. Crafted from solid sterling silver, these plates are considered highly collectible due to their limited edition status, exceptional craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of Norman Rockwell’s artwork. Marked with the respective company’s hallmark, the year of production, and the name of the painting, these plates are rare and highly sought after. Prices for these plates typically range from $100 to $400 on various online marketplaces.
Final Thoughts: Understanding the Value of Norman Rockwell Plates
Norman Rockwell, one of the most beloved American artists of the 20th century, has left a lasting impact on the world of art. Consequently, his artwork has become highly collectible, with many collectors expressing a keen interest in acquiring Norman Rockwell plates. However, it’s important to note that not all plates hold equal monetary value, and some may be more sought after by collectors than others.
Franklin Mint Sterling Silver plates, Knowles Norman Rockwell plates, and Gorham Norman Rockwell plates are among the most valuable and collectible ones. Their limited edition status, exceptional craftsmanship, and the enduring popularity of Norman Rockwell’s artwork contribute to their high demand among collectors. These plates can range in price from $10 to several hundred dollars, depending on their rarity, condition, and level of desirability.
Ultimately, determining the value of a Norman Rockwell plate involves considering factors such as its rarity, condition, and popularity among collectors. Conducting thorough research and carefully evaluating these factors will enable collectors to make informed decisions when investing in a Norman Rockwell plate. So begin your journey of collecting Norman Rockwell plates by understanding which ones hold significant value!
