In our exclusive, best Holt-Howard Christmas collectible insider guide, learn why these ceramics are so collectible and why prices are skyrocketing for these treasures.
Collecting the Rare Holt-Howard Noel Santa Set
Holt-Howard’s vintage Christmas collectibles are renowned for their captivating charm. These pieces transport us to a bygone era of festive celebrations and family traditions.
COLLECTOR’S ALERT! As of March 4, 2025, a Holt Howard Noel Santa set identical to the one pictured in our collection has been listed on Etsy (not my listing) for a staggering $3,995!
These rare mid-century treasures continue to skyrocket in value, making Antique Harvest’s curated collection not just nostalgic finds, but potential investment pieces. Stop by to see this coveted set in person before serious collectors snap up these increasingly scarce holiday icons!
I have a blog post about collecting Holt-Howard Pixieware you can read that has information and some history about the Holt-Howard company and how it started, why they moved their ceramic manufacturing to Japan and has some neat pictures of the famous Holt-Howard Pixieware collectibles if you want to learn a little bit about the company.
Last week we published post number 1 in our Vintage Christmas Collecting Series on collecting vintage NOEL sets and this week’s post is all about collecting Holt-Howard Christmas goodies so grab your favorite beverage, sit back and relax as I share some of my favorite Holt-Howard collectibles with you.
Vintage Holt-Howard Noel Angel Candleholder
Holt-Howard’s vintage Noel angel girl candleholders are the queens of kitschy Christmas charm! Dressed in snowy white robes sprinkled with golden starbursts, each sweet cherub proudly holds a red letter to spell out “NOEL,” topped with a festive green candleholder.
These pieces feature wide-eyed expressions and blushing cheeks. They offer the ultimate throwback to 1950s-60s holiday cheer.
Collectors go crazy for these iconic cuties and sets in great condition can fetch $800 to $1,800 or more! When hunting for your own heavenly set, keep an eye out for flawless halos, intact letters, and un-chipped candleholders.
This beautiful pristine set of Holt Howard Noel Candleholders is available now on at my shop Crazy4MeStyle
Collecting the Popular Holt-Howard Starry-Eyed Santa
You can’t have Christmas without Santa Claus. Holt Howard has a couple variations on Santa from a winking Santa to a Starry-Eyed Santa.
The Starry-Eyed Santa has always been incredibly collectible and highly desired by collectors but this year its popularity has dramatically increased and prices have skyrocketed. I have just started my collection of Starry-Eyed Santa pieces and here are the large dish and two smaller nut dishes or horderves plates.
Starry-Eyed Santa debuted in 1959. He has great Mid-Century charm with starburst eyes and a whimsical beard. The set includes mugs, a pitcher, trays, and salt and pepper shakers.
A recent Ebay auction on December 2, 2020 had a Holt-Howard Starry-Eyed Santa pitcher and four mugs set go for $535.00. A single mug can go for $150.00, and a pair of salt and pepper shakers for over $200.00. If you are out treasure hunting and spot a Holt-Howard Starry Eyed Santa piece you’d better snap it up!!
Next are the Holt-Howard Santa candle holders. You can find a western theme with a stagecoach or traditional Santas with gift sacks. These pieces feature fine details and bright colors. The winking Santa is another classic. His jolly face and blue eye look great on the matching pitcher and mug set.
Collecting the Delicate Ermine Angel Series
Angels are a favorite of mine to collect and Holt-Howard’s Ermine Angels are so lovely. The Ermine Angel set features candle holders, salt and pepper shakers and a planter.
These angels have serene faces and downcast eyes. They wear white robes with spaghetti trim. Each piece is finished with gold accentsTheir faces are so pretty with rosy cheeks and long eyelashes and the set is very dainty and a great example of high quality 1950s ceramics. The Ermine Angel set is frequently available and pieces can be obtained in the $50-$75 range.
Holt Howard Lil Salt and Lil Pepper Shakers
A fun whimsical pair is the Holt Howard Lil Salt and Lil Pepper Shakers blue eyed candy cane kids. These have big blue eyes and make a wonderful addition to your holiday decor. These shakers are rare and hard to find, they can range in price from $150-$225.
Finding the Rare Shopper Girl Candleholders
Among the most treasured pieces in my vintage Holt-Howard collection are the exquisite girl candleholders.
These delightful shopper girls wear festive red dresses with intricate spaghetti trim. They also sport fluffy scarves and whimsical berets.
This set is rare and highly sought-after. Expect to invest $1,200-$2,800 in today’s market. Always inspect the necks, scarves, and packages for damage before buying.
Should you encounter these elusive gems, be vigilant in inspecting for any damage to the necks, scarves, or packages and ensure the delicate spaghetti detailing remains intact. This unique find is truly a collector’s dream!
The “Unicorn” Find: Holt-Howard Santa at the Piano Flower Frog Candleholder
If you are looking for a true “unicorn” for your collection, this ultra-rare Holt-Howard Santa at the Piano is a showstopper. This limited-production piece features Santa playing a festive holiday tune, accompanied by his adorable crew of reindeer, a curious cat, and a tiny mouse.
Furthermore, this clever design is multi-functional. The piano actually doubles as a flower frog, allowing you to add fresh holiday holly or seasonal blooms. It is a genius mid-century design that perfectly captures the whimsical spirit of the 1950s!
Visit my Etsy Shop!
Explore my Etsy shop today and uncover one-of-a-kind vintage treasures waiting just for you!
Join Our Vintage Christmas Collecting Series
About the Vintage Christmas Collecting Series: This six-part series explores vintage Christmas collectibles from the 1940s through the 1960s. I will share insights on starting your collection and finding rare treasures. You will also find tips on current prices and how to score hard-to-find pieces. Both new and seasoned collectors will learn how to enjoy this hobby all year long.
Upcoming Vintage Christmas Collecting Series:
- Collecting vintage NOEL Christmas candleholders, figurines, and bells – November 27, 2020
- Vintage Holt-Howard Christmas collectibles – December 4, 2020
- Pretty Ladies – Vintage Christmas headvases – December 11, 2020
- Collecting vintage Christmas angels – December 18, 2020
- Have yourself a Mid-Mod Christmas – December 24, 2020
- Collecting vintage Christmas year-round – January 2, 2021
If you found this post engaging and are considering embarking on your own journey to collect vintage Holt-Howard Santa’s, or simply wish to expand your existing collection, I’d be thrilled to help!
Visit my Etsy shop, where I showcase a carefully curated selection of rare Holt-Howard Starry Eyed Santa pieces, perfect for both new and seasoned collectors alike. Let’s share the joy of these charming treasures together!