Beswick figurines

Beswick Pottery began as a manufacturer of  tablewares in Staffordshire, England, in 1894. It produced its first animal figurines around 1900 and by 1930 they had bacome a major part in the factory’s output. In 1969, Beswick was sold to Royal Doulton but various pottery items, including figurines, continued to be sold under the name ‘Beswick’. In 1989, production of Beswick and Doulton animals merged under the Royal Doulton mark. The name ‘Beswick’ was used again from 1999 until the factory closed in 2002. 

Budgerigars are popular pets and models are keenly collected. Rare pieces may fetch the price £800 - 1,200

Large numbers of Beswick figurines have been made and sold since the early 1900s, as they appealed to a wide range of people. Prices for figurines have dropped generally, as for many people the decoration of their home has become more minimalist in style, eschewing clutter. But some rare Beswick figures are still making high prices. Cattle, horses, dogs and cats are continually popular, as are ranges such as Beatrix potter characters. Limited editions can be valuable if the edition was small and there is demand today. 

Bewick fish - cost may vary £200 - 300

Small variations of colour, glaze type and form (such as differently positioned tail) can have a huge effect on the price collector is willing to pay. Matt-glazed pieces are often more valuable than glossy figures and rocking-horse grey is generally more valuable colour than brown. Early pieces can make high prices but can be hard to identify as the Beswick backstamp and shape numbers were only used from 1934. If you have a large collection of Beswick figures that you are hoping to sell, it may be worth investing in a specialist guide to se whether you have any of the most valuable variations. 

 

The Duchess, who appears in The Tale of the Pie and the Patty-Pan. Version with flowers may cost £1,000 - 1,500

Collectors always aim to buy Beswick figurines in mint condition so any damage will reduce value dramatically. Only very rare figures will still be worth more than around £20 if they are not mint. Examine protruding areas, such as horns and hooves, carefully for damage. Unfortunately, a restored area will still be considered damaged by many collectors.

Beswick Galloway bull was in production from 1963 to 1969. Pieces in mint condition may cost £2,000 - 3,000

Damaged figurines should be sold either at a car boot sale or online. If you do sell over the internet, remember to use plenty of bubble wrap and newspaper when you are packing to avoid breakages. Good condition figurines can often be sold in specialist Royal Doulton and Beswick figurine sales, which are run by several auction houses, including W.&H. Peacock, Charterhouse and Tennants. 

Beswick Beatrix Potter figurine marks