Frankoma Pottery

Available at our sale

Understanding the Frankoma Appeal

Frankoma pottery, founded in Oklahoma in 1933, has become a beloved collectible for its distinctive glazes, regional history, and wide variety of forms, from dinnerware to artware and commemorative pieces. Collectors are often drawn to the vibrant colors like Prairie Green and Desert Gold, the unique clay bodies (notably Ada and Sapulpa clays), and the company’s ties to American mid-century design. In Atlanta’s active estate sale scene, Frankoma’s blend of affordability and occasional rarity makes it a prime target for treasure hunters who enjoy discovering undervalued gems among everyday wares.

Determining Value

Frankoma’s value is influenced by age, clay type, glaze color, rarity, and condition. Early pieces made with Ada clay (pre-1954) are especially sought after and can command high prices, sometimes several hundred to thousands of dollars if sold by knowledgeable dealers. More common pieces, like Wagon Wheel dinnerware, typically sell for $10–$20 per piece, with serving pieces reaching $30–$75. Political mugs, especially rare variants like the 1974 Nixon/Ford elephant mug, have sold for several hundred dollars, while plates with production errors (such as the 1972 “statis” plate) can fetch over $100. For up-to-date pricing, completed eBay sales and collector reference books like Gary Schaum’s Collector’s Guide to Frankoma Pottery-1933 through 1990 are invaluable.

Most Sought-After Examples

Among the most coveted Frankoma items are early vases, test pieces, and rare glazes. For example, the Frankoma #289 vase (circa 1934–38) in dark blue glaze, and the Frank Potteries #290 vase (circa 1933–34) in Early Blue glaze, are highly prized by advanced collectors due to their rarity and provenance. Political memorabilia, limited-edition artware, and commemorative plates also attract strong interest. Recent reissues, such as the Liberty Bell and Miniature Fan Dancer, are popular with new collectors but generally hold lower resale value compared to vintage originals. When shopping, always look for clear markings, unique glazes, and any documentation of authenticity.

Condition: The Key to Value

The condition of Frankoma pottery is critical for both value and usability. Inspect each piece for chips, cracks, and crazing (fine cracks in the glaze), as these flaws can significantly reduce both the resale price and the safety of using the item for food. Pieces in excellent condition are safe for oven and dishwasher use, but caution is advised with microwave use (limit to short reheating only). Older pieces may contain lead in the glaze, so avoid using damaged items for food service. Always photograph pieces clearly, including the bottom markings, when listing for resale, as these details are crucial for buyers.

Proper Care and Storage

To preserve the value of Frankoma pottery, handle each piece gently and avoid stacking heavy items. Store in a stable, dry environment to prevent accidental chips or moisture damage. When shipping, use ample padding and avoid packing long, flat pieces in boxes that match their shape exactly, as they are particularly vulnerable to breakage. Clean with mild soap and water, and avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the glaze. For display, keep pieces out of direct sunlight to prevent fading of the distinctive Frankoma colors.

Photos of rare Frankoma vases and collectible pieces can be found on dedicated collector sites and auction listings. For specific images, refer to the Frankoma Collectors Association and the official Frankoma Pottery Company’s artware gallery.