Old Spice Shaving Mug Value Guide: Collector Prices & Identification
Discover the true value of vintage Old Spice shaving mugs. Learn to identify rare models, pricing factors, and what collectors are willing to pay for these nostalgic grooming artifacts.
By Appraisily TeamLast updated November 5, 2023
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<span>Introduction to Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Vintage Old Spice shaving mugs have become cherished collectibles that connect us to decades of masculine grooming tradition. Originally created for practical use, these ceramic vessels now command attention from collectors worldwide for their historical significance, nostalgic appeal, and distinctive nautical designs.</div>
Old Spice shaving mugs were produced from the late 1930s through the 1990s, with the earliest and rarest examples now fetching significant prices in the collectibles market. These mugs feature iconic sailing ship designs like the Grand Turk and Friendship, reflecting the maritime theme that became synonymous with the Old Spice brand.
For collectors and those who’ve inherited these pieces, understanding what determines their value is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various factors that influence Old Spice shaving mug values, how to identify different models, current market prices, and tips for buying or selling these nostalgic treasures.
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<span>The History of Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Understanding the history of Old Spice shaving mugs provides crucial context for determining their value. The mugs evolved significantly over the decades, with distinct eras of production that collectors recognize today.</div>
Evolution of Old Spice Shaving Mugs
1938-1941
First Generation: Hull Pottery Era
The earliest Old Spice mugs were manufactured by Hull Pottery for Shulton. These featured the "Ship Grand Turk" design and were made in the USA. These are among the most valuable due to their rarity and historical significance.
1942-1955
Early Production Mugs
The "Ship Friendship" design was introduced during this period. Mugs from this era typically have "Early American Old Spice" with no ribs around the interior bottom, designed for a 5-ounce soap cake.
1956-1963
Mid-Century Production
A redesign introduced internal ribs to hold the soap. Mugs from this period typically feature "Early American Old Spice" and the Ship Friendship design with clearer detail.
1964-1978
Later Production Years
Mugs featured the "Ship Grand Turk Salem 1786" motif. Production moved overseas with some mugs marked as made in England, Japan, or Germany.
1979-1990s
Final Production Period
The last era of Old Spice shaving mug production featured various designs and manufacturing locations before production eventually ceased as shaving preferences changed.
The connection between Old Spice and maritime imagery stems from the brand’s original inspiration. When Shulton founder William Lightfoot Schultz created Old Spice in 1937, he was inspired by his mother’s potpourri and colonial American maritime history. The ship designs on the mugs, primarily the Grand Turk and the Friendship, became iconic brand elements.
According to collector resources like Razor Archive, the earliest glass mug without interior ribs was designed specifically for a 5.0-ounce soap cake, a detail that helps collectors identify authentic early pieces.
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<span>Factors That Determine Old Spice Shaving Mug Value</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Several key factors contribute to the value of vintage Old Spice shaving mugs. Understanding these elements will help you accurately assess the worth of any mug in your collection.</div>
Age and Rarity
Generally, older Old Spice mugs command higher prices, with the earliest Hull Pottery examples from 1938-1941 being the most valuable. According to collector forums like Badger & Blade, these early mugs can be worth significantly more than later models.
Condition
The condition of a shaving mug dramatically impacts its value:
Condition Assessment for Old Spice Mugs
Use this checklist to evaluate the condition of your Old Spice shaving mug:
No chips, cracks, or repairs
Original glaze intact with minimal crazing
Vibrant colors with minimal fading
Clear, undamaged ship imagery
Legible maker's marks and branding
Clean interior with no soap residue
Original packaging present (box, instructions)
Design and Manufacturer
Different ships and designs appear on Old Spice mugs, affecting their value:
Ship Grand Turk - Appearing on the earliest mugs (1938-1941) by Hull Pottery and later revival designs
Ship Friendship - Featured on many mid-century mugs
Manufacturing location - American-made mugs typically command higher prices than those made overseas
Original Packaging and Accessories
Mugs that retain their original packaging, instructions, or accompanying accessories like matching brushes can be worth substantially more. A complete set with the original box in good condition can increase value by 30-50%.
Markings and Authenticity
Authentic Old Spice mugs have specific markings that help determine their age and origin:
Early Hull Pottery mugs (1938-1941) have “HULL - USA” marked on the bottom
Later mugs have markings indicating “Shulton” and the country of manufacture
Some limited editions and special releases have unique markings
Value Impact Factors
Original Box & Packaging
+30-50%
Premium for complete, original packaging
Hull Pottery Era (1938-1941)
+100-300%
Significant premium for earliest examples
Mint Condition
+40-60%
Compared to mugs with minor damage
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<span>Current Market Values for Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">The value of Old Spice shaving mugs can vary significantly based on the factors previously discussed. Here’s a current price guide based on recent sales data and collector insights.</div>
Old Spice Shaving Mug Value Guide
Current market value ranges as of 2023
Category
Price
Notes
Hull Pottery Era (1938-1941)
$75-$150+
Rare, earliest examples in excellent condition
Early "Ship Friendship" (1942-1955)
$40-$80
No interior ribs, "Early American" marking
Mid-Century Production (1956-1963)
$30-$60
With interior ribs, clear ship design
Late Production "Grand Turk" (1964-1978)
$15-$40
More common, overseas production
Final Production Period (1979-1990s)
$10-$25
Most common, various designs
Mint Condition with Original Box
+30-50%
Premium for complete packaging
Special Editions & Rare Variants
$50-$100+
Limited releases and uncommon designs
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According to expert appraisals on JustAnswer, later production mugs from the 1964-1978 period with the Ship Grand Turk Salem 1786 motif typically sell for $15-$20 in standard condition. The Badger & Blade forum notes that the two versions of the “Ship Friendship” mugs in very good condition tend to be worth $20-$40.
For the earliest and rarest Hull Pottery examples, values can climb significantly higher, especially with original packaging. Collectors on specialized forums report sales of pristine examples ranging from $75-$150 or more.
Recent Old Spice Mug Sales
Notable recent auction results
Item
Price
Date
Auction House
Early Hull Pottery Old Spice Mug (1938-1941)
$140
March 2023
eBay
Early American Ship Friendship with Box
$65
January 2023
Ruby Lane
Old Spice Mug with Brush Set, 1960s
$45
February 2023
Etsy
Late Model Grand Turk Salem (1970s)
$22
April 2023
eBay
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<span>How to Identify Valuable Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Identifying the most valuable Old Spice shaving mugs requires careful examination of several key features. Here’s what to look for when evaluating a potential treasure.</div>
Bottom Markings and Manufacturer Identification
Turn the mug over and examine the base markings:
Hull Pottery era (1938-1941): Look for “HULL - USA” marking
Early to mid-production: “Shulton Inc.” markings
Later production: Country of manufacture (England, Japan, etc.)
Limited editions: Special markings or numbering
Design and Construction Details
Examine the mug for these telling design elements:
Interior ribs: Early mugs (pre-1956) had no interior ribs
Ship design details: Earlier mugs typically have more detailed ship illustrations
Material quality: Earlier mugs generally have a higher quality finish and glaze
Size and proportions: Different eras had slightly different dimensions
According to Razor Archive, the earliest glass mug is the only Old Spice glass mug without ribs around the interior bottom, a key identification factor for collectors.
Signs of Authenticity vs. Reproductions
Be aware that reproductions exist in the market:
Authentic mugs have a certain weight and feel
The glaze quality on originals is generally superior
Authentic marks have specific font characteristics
Original ship designs have precise details that reproductions often miss
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<span>Where to Buy and Sell Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Whether you’re looking to add to your collection or sell pieces you already own, knowing the best marketplaces can help you find fair prices and reliable transactions.</div>
Best Places to Find Old Spice Shaving Mugs
For collectors seeking to purchase vintage Old Spice mugs, several platforms offer good selections:
eBay: Consistently offers the largest selection of Old Spice mugs across all eras. According to their collectibles section, prices range widely from $10 for common models to over $100 for rare examples.
Etsy: Particularly good for finding unique or rare Old Spice mugs, with many sellers specializing in vintage grooming items. The Etsy marketplace often features well-preserved examples with original packaging.
Ruby Lane: This curated antique marketplace frequently lists higher-end Old Spice mugs from earlier production periods, like this early 1940’s example.
Antique Shows and Flea Markets: Often yield unexpected finds at negotiable prices.
Specialty Auction Houses: For the rarest examples, especially from the Hull Pottery era.
Selling Your Old Spice Shaving Mugs
If you’re looking to sell, consider these options:
eBay: Offers the largest potential audience of collectors
Etsy: Good for reaching dedicated vintage enthusiasts
Ruby Lane: Best for higher-end, authenticated pieces
Collector Forums: Sites like Badger & Blade have marketplace sections frequented by knowledgeable collectors
Consignment Shops: For rare, high-value examples
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<span>Tips for Collecting Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">For those interested in building a collection of Old Spice shaving mugs, these expert tips will help you make informed decisions and find the best examples.</div>
Start with Research
Before making any purchases:
Study the different eras and designs of Old Spice mugs
Learn to recognize authentic markings and features
Join collector forums like Badger & Blade to learn from experienced collectors
Reference price guides and recent auction results
Focus Your Collection
Consider specializing in:
A specific era (Hull Pottery, early Shulton, etc.)
Complete sets with original boxes and accessories
Different ship designs or manufacturing locations
Unusual variants and limited editions
Condition Matters
Inspect for chips, cracks, and crazing before purchasing
Check for repairs or restorations that might affect value
Examine the clarity of the ship design and markings
Look for original packaging whenever possible
Authentication Considerations
Be skeptical of unusually low prices for rare models
Request clear photos of bottom markings before purchasing online
Compare details with known authentic examples
Ask sellers for provenance information when available
Preservation and Display
Store mugs away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
Handle carefully to avoid chips and cracks
Consider display cases with UV protection for valuable pieces
Keep original packaging in acid-free containers
Common Questions About Old Spice Shaving Mug Values
What is the most valuable Old Spice shaving mug?
The most valuable Old Spice shaving mugs are those from the earliest production period (1938-1941) manufactured by Hull Pottery. These mugs featuring the "Ship Grand Turk" design can sell for $75-$150 or more in excellent condition with original packaging. Limited editions and rare variants can also command premium prices.
How can I tell how old my Old Spice shaving mug is?
You can determine the age of your Old Spice shaving mug by examining:
Bottom markings: Early Hull Pottery mugs (1938-1941) are marked "HULL - USA"
Interior design: Pre-1956 mugs have no interior ribs
Ship design: Different periods featured either the "Ship Grand Turk" or "Ship Friendship"
Manufacturing location: Later mugs were made in England, Japan, or Germany
Text styling: The way "Old Spice" and "Shulton" appear changed over time
The Razor Archive provides detailed information on identifying different production periods.
Are Old Spice shaving mugs still being made?
No, Old Spice no longer manufactures traditional ceramic shaving mugs. Production of the classic design shaving mugs ended in the 1990s as shaving preferences changed and the company shifted its product focus. Modern Old Spice products focus on contemporary grooming solutions rather than traditional wet shaving accessories.
What's the difference between a shaving mug and a shaving bowl?
The main differences between shaving mugs and shaving bowls are:
Shape: Mugs are taller with vertical sides and typically have handles, while bowls are wider with sloped sides
Function: Mugs were designed to hold hot water and pre-made shaving soap, while bowls are used to create lather directly
Design: Traditional mugs like Old Spice examples often featured decorative elements, while bowls tend to be more utilitarian
Old Spice produced shaving mugs rather than bowls, designed to hold their signature soap pucks.
Does original packaging increase the value of an Old Spice shaving mug?
Yes, original packaging significantly increases the value of an Old Spice shaving mug. A mug with its original box, instructions, and any accompanying accessories can be worth 30-50% more than the same mug without packaging. Collectors place high value on complete sets, especially for older or rarer models. The original packaging also helps authenticate the piece and provides historical context.
When were shaving mugs most popular?
Shaving mugs were most popular from the 1880s through the 1940s, with custom and personalized mugs being particularly fashionable from the 1880s to the 1930s. The Old Spice shaving mugs remained popular from their introduction in 1938 through the 1960s, when changing shaving habits began to reduce their everyday use. Today, they're primarily collected for their nostalgic and historical value rather than practical use.
What is a Victorian shaving scuttle and how is it different from an Old Spice mug?
A Victorian shaving scuttle differs from an Old Spice shaving mug in several key ways:
Design: A scuttle is a double-walled ceramic bowl with a separate compartment for hot water to keep lather warm
Functionality: Scuttles maintain lather temperature through multiple passes, while Old Spice mugs simply hold soap
Era: Victorian scuttles predate Old Spice mugs, being popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
Complexity: Scuttles are more complex with multiple chambers, while Old Spice mugs have a simpler, single-chamber design
Old Spice never produced shaving scuttles, focusing instead on their iconic decorative mugs with ship designs.
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<span>Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Old Spice Shaving Mugs</span>
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<div class="section-header__body">Old Spice shaving mugs represent more than just vintage grooming accessories—they embody a chapter of American consumer history and men’s grooming tradition. For collectors, these iconic mugs offer an accessible entry point into vintage collecting with pieces available across a wide range of prices.</div>
The value of Old Spice shaving mugs continues to hold steady and even appreciate for the rarest examples. Early Hull Pottery mugs from 1938-1941 represent the pinnacle for collectors, while even more common later models offer nostalgic appeal and decorative charm.
Whether you’re an experienced collector looking to add a rare Hull Pottery example to your collection, or someone who discovered an Old Spice mug in a family member’s estate, understanding the factors that determine value will help you make informed decisions about buying, selling, or preserving these classic pieces of Americana.
As traditional wet shaving enjoys a renaissance among modern men seeking more mindful grooming rituals, the appreciation for these historic shaving implements continues to grow, ensuring that Old Spice shaving mugs will remain coveted collectibles for generations to come.
