| Average Plate |
$8-$18 |
Most common plates regardless of series |
| Complete Sets |
$25-$75 |
Sets often sell for less than individual plate values combined |
| Rare Limited Editions |
$80-$165 |
Particularly scarce plates with low production numbers |
| Exceptionally Rare Examples |
$200-$850 |
Extremely uncommon plates with unique characteristics |
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As antiques expert Orion’s Attic notes, “The adage in the collectibles world is that if it was made to be collectible, it’s not very collectible today.” This perfectly summarizes the current state of the Norman Rockwell plate market.
Rarity and Production Numbers
Plates produced in genuinely limited quantities tend to command higher prices. Some series had special plates with lower production numbers than the standard releases. Check for numbered editions and certificates of authenticity that indicate limited production runs.
Condition
As with most collectibles, condition is paramount. Plates in mint condition with no chips, cracks, crazing, or fading will always be worth more than damaged examples. Original packaging, certificates of authenticity, and display stands all add incremental value.
Series Popularity
Certain Norman Rockwell themes and series have maintained more collector interest than others. The “Four Seasons” plates, “American Family” series, and holiday-themed plates often sell for slightly higher prices than less popular series.
Manufacturer
Plates produced by Edwin M. Knowles China Company are generally considered among the most collectible of the Norman Rockwell plates. The Bradford Exchange and Gorham also produced quality plates, though values can vary significantly.
Norman Rockwell Plate Condition Assessment
Check applicable items to help determine if your plate is in optimal condition
Rarest Norman Rockwell Plates
According to collector data and recent sales, these are among the most valuable Norman Rockwell plates:
- First editions of series, particularly those from the earliest production runs in the 1970s
- Prototype or artist proof plates that were never mass-produced
- Plates with production errors that were quickly corrected, creating rarities
- Specially commissioned plates for organizations or events
- Plates personally signed by Norman Rockwell (extremely rare and often requiring authentication)
One example of an exceptionally valuable plate is “The Cobbler,” which has sold for over $800 in perfect condition with all original documentation.
Knowles Norman Rockwell Plates
The Edwin M. Knowles China Company produced some of the most collected Norman Rockwell plate series. On eBay, complete sets of Knowles Norman Rockwell plates, such as the “Rediscovered Women” series (12 plates), sell for approximately $40-$60 when in excellent condition with certificates of authenticity.
Individual Knowles plates typically sell in the $10-$25 range, depending on the specific design and condition. The earlier series from the late 1970s and early 1980s tend to command slightly higher prices than later productions.
Norman Rockwell Plate Collecting History
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1970s
Beginning of Collector Plate Boom
The Bradford Exchange and Knowles China Company begin producing Norman Rockwell collector plates, marketed as limited editions that would appreciate in value.
-
1980s
Peak Popularity Period
Production expands with numerous series released. Original plates often sold for $25-$50 each. Collectors eagerly purchased complete sets.
-
1990s
Market Saturation
Oversupply begins to affect secondary market values. New collectors become harder to find as younger generations show less interest.
-
2000s-Present
Secondary Market Decline
Values decrease substantially, with most plates selling for a fraction of their original prices. Only the rarest examples maintain or increase in value.
Best Places to Sell Norman Rockwell Plates
- eBay: Still the largest marketplace for collector plates, though expect significant competition from other sellers.
- Etsy: Can be effective for reaching collectors looking specifically for vintage items.
- Facebook Marketplace: Good for local sales without shipping concerns.
- Specialty collector forums: Websites dedicated to plate collectors may yield better results for rare pieces.
- Local antique malls or consignment shops: Consider for selling complete collections without the hassle of individual listings.
Tips for Maximum Value
When selling Norman Rockwell plates, consider these strategies to maximize your returns:
- Sell complete sets together when possible, as this is often more attractive to collectors than individual plates.
- Include all original packaging, certificates, and display stands to increase appeal.
- Research recent completed sales of identical plates to price competitively.
- Take high-quality photographs showing the plate from multiple angles, highlighting any maker’s marks and plate numbers.
- Create detailed descriptions mentioning the specific series, plate number, and condition.
- Consider timing – holiday-themed plates often sell better during the corresponding season.
According to experts at JustAnswer, setting realistic expectations is crucial. Most Norman Rockwell plates today sell for between $8-$18, regardless of what they originally cost or what collector guides might suggest.
Key Identification Elements
- Manufacturer’s Mark: Located on the back of the plate, typically identifying the producer (Knowles, Bradford Exchange, Gorham, etc.)
- Plate Number: Each plate in a series is typically numbered
- Limited Edition Statement: May indicate the total production number
- Certificate of Authenticity: Original documentation greatly enhances value
- Norman Rockwell’s Signature: Printed on the front of the plate as part of the design
For rare cases where you believe you might have a plate personally signed by Norman Rockwell himself, the Norman Rockwell Museum recommends consulting a licensed appraiser for proper authentication, as these would be exceptionally valuable if genuine.
Plate Number Lookup
To research specific plates by their identification numbers, collectors can use resources like:
- The Bradford Exchange’s official website
- Specialized collector guides and books
- Online collector forums where experts can help identify rare or unusual pieces
Remember that plate numbers alone don’t necessarily indicate value – many plates with low numbers were still produced in large quantities.
Common Questions About Norman Rockwell Plate Values
How do I know if my Norman Rockwell plate is valuable?
To determine if your Norman Rockwell plate might be more valuable than average, check for these characteristics:
- Genuine rarity (not just marketed as “limited edition”)
- Excellent condition with no damage
- Complete with original box and certificate of authenticity
- Early production numbers from initial releases
- Special commissioned plates or prototypes
- Unusual themes or designs with limited production runs
Remember that most Norman Rockwell plates sell for under $20 regardless of their original price. For truly rare examples, consider consulting with a professional appraiser specializing in collectibles.
Do people still collect Norman Rockwell plates?
Yes, there is still a collector market for Norman Rockwell plates, but it’s much smaller than during the collecting boom of the 1970s-1990s. Today’s collectors tend to be more selective, focusing on specific series, themes, or particularly appealing images rather than attempting to acquire complete collections.
The demographic of collectors has also aged, with fewer younger collectors entering the market. This has contributed to the overall decline in values, as demand has decreased while supply remains abundant.
How do I find the value of a specific plate?
To determine the value of a specific Norman Rockwell plate:
- Check recent completed sales on platforms like eBay or Etsy
- Search for your specific plate name or number on Mavin.io, which compiles recent sale prices
- Join collector forums where experts might provide valuation guidance
- Compare condition, completeness, and rarity of your plate to similar sold examples
- For potentially valuable plates, consider professional appraisal services
Remember that asking prices often differ significantly from actual selling prices, so focus on completed sales data.
Why are some Norman Rockwell plates worth more than others?
Several factors contribute to why certain Norman Rockwell plates command higher prices than others:
- True rarity: Plates with very limited production runs or those discontinued early
- Popular imagery: Certain Rockwell images resonate more with collectors
- Historical significance: Plates commemorating specific events or milestones
- Condition: Mint condition examples with no wear or damage
- Completeness: Having the original box, certificate, and display stand
- Special features: Unusual designs, gold embellishments, or other unique characteristics
The most valuable plates typically combine several of these factors, particularly genuine rarity and excellent condition.
Are Bradford Exchange Norman Rockwell plates worth anything?
Bradford Exchange Norman Rockwell plates generally have modest values in today’s market, typically selling for $10-$25 each depending on the specific design and condition. Complete sets in excellent condition with all documentation might sell for slightly more.
While Bradford Exchange marketed these plates as investments that would appreciate over time, most have depreciated significantly from their original purchase prices. However, collectors who genuinely enjoy the artwork still seek out specific designs they find appealing.
Where can I sell my Norman Rockwell plate collection?
There are several options for selling Norman Rockwell plate collections:
- Online marketplaces: eBay, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, and Mercari
- Local options: Antique malls, consignment shops, or estate sale companies
- Auction houses: For particularly rare or valuable collections
- Collector forums: Specialized websites where Norman Rockwell enthusiasts gather
- Local collectors: Through newspaper classifieds or community bulletin boards
Each option has advantages and disadvantages regarding fees, required effort, potential customer base, and shipping considerations. For large collections, selling as complete sets often yields better results than selling individual plates.
The story of Norman Rockwell collector plates serves as a cautionary tale about items marketed specifically as “collectibles.” Despite being sold with promises of increasing value, most Norman Rockwell plates have depreciated significantly over time. This pattern follows a common trajectory in the collectibles market: items produced explicitly for collectors rarely achieve the appreciation predicted by their manufacturers.
The greatest value in Norman Rockwell plates today may be the enjoyment they bring to those who appreciate his nostalgic, quintessentially American artwork. Collectors who purchase these plates for their aesthetic appeal rather than investment potential are likely to find the most satisfaction.
For those inheriting or considering selling Norman Rockwell plate collections, setting realistic expectations is important. While most plates have modest monetary value, complete sets in excellent condition with all original documentation still attract buyers who genuinely appreciate Rockwell’s artistry and American cultural heritage.
Ultimately, the most valuable collectibles are often those never intended as collectibles at all—a lesson worth remembering for anyone entering today’s collectibles market.
External Resources for Norman Rockwell Plate Collectors
