Crested Ware & Souvenir Ceramics

🏛 Crested Ware & Souvenir Ceramics

Crested ware refers to small decorative ceramics, usually featuring town names, coats of arms, or tourist landmarks. Popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these charming pieces were made by companies like Goss, Arcadian, Carlton, and Willow Art.

📍 Where to Find Them:

  • 🧺 Car boot sales – often available for under £1
  • 🏬 Charity shops – look in the bric-a-brac section
  • 🛒 eBay – especially in “job lots” or auctions
  • 🏚 Estate clearances and local antique stalls

📈 What to Look For:

  • 🔍 Clear maker’s marks (e.g., Goss or Arcadian)
  • 📍 Unusual or rare town crests – smaller towns often have fewer made
  • 📅 Older pieces or ones with original stickers/tags

🚫 What to Avoid:

  • ❌ Unmarked items – harder to research or resell
  • ❌ Damaged or heavily faded designs
  • ❌ Modern replicas with no historical relevance

Tip: Crested ware is great for themed collections — such as “seaside towns,” “castles,” or “Welsh crests.” They’re budget-friendly, small to store, and full of character.

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