Vintage Fashion, Mid-Century Modern, Collectibles, and Everything in Between
Category Archives: Vintage Christmas Collecting Series
About the Vintage Christmas Collecting Series: This six-part series of blog posts and pictures focuses on vintage and mid-mod Christmas collectibles from the late 1940s-1960s, giving you the insights on starting a collection with tips on prices and where to find these treasures as well as tips for adding to your collection and scoring the rare and hard-to-find pieces. Both new and seasoned collectors will learn new things so they can enjoy collecting vintage Christmas items year-round.
Ready to become an antiques aficionado? Look no further than the experts’ books available on antiques, vintage Christmas, kitschy mid-century modern artifacts and collectibles! So start exploring this fascinating world filled with nostalgia and tradition today! Here are a few titles worth checking out:
Space age tin toys and robots captured the imagination of a mid-century generation enthralled by space exploration. These highly collectible toys are now prized by vintage toy collectors and Mid-Century Modern enthusiasts alike. If you’re interested in collecting space age tin toys and just starting out, here are some really good books to get you started that full of photos and information.
Yasmina Greco with her Vintage Christmas NOEL Collection
Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year!! I have a great post for you all today; Vintage Christmas Noel Sets: The Ultimate 5 Tips for Collectors for collecting Noel figurines and candle holders from Santa Claus, Elves, Poodles, Snowmen, Angels, Candy Canes, Holt-Howard.
That feeling of festivity and joy that comes with this time of year can be attributed to many things, but one of them surely has to be all the vintage kitschy decorations.
Vintage 1950s NOEL Angel Girl Bells – Japan
For me, one of my favorite things to do is pull out the vintage Chirstmas NOEL sets that I have been collecting for years and display these treasures as I get my home ready for Christmas.
If you love a touch of nostalgia with some Mid-Century flair then you’ll want to curl up with your cocoa and read our new blog post on Collecting Vintage Christmas: Noel Sets for tips on buying, selling, and searching for these treasures.
Today’s blog post features some of my vintage Noel collection that dates from the 1950s-1960s and features Noel candle holders, Noel bells, and Noel figurines.
When it comes to vintage Noel collectibles there are so many varieties and themes from Santa Claus, Elves, Poodles, Snowmen, Angels, Candy Canes, and even Clowns, that there really is something for everyone and you can easily have a theme each year for your holiday decorating too!!
Holt Howard Noel Angel Candleholders
Holt-Howard’s vintage Noel angel girl candleholders are cherished mid-century collectibles known for their whimsical charm and festive flair. These ceramic figurines, dressed in white robes adorned with gold star accents, hold red letters that spell out “NOEL” across the set with green tops to insert candles. Their expressive faces and intricate details embody the nostalgic appeal of 1950s and 1960s holiday décor.
Highly sought after by collectors, these pieces can command prices ranging from $800 to $1,500+, depending on condition. When acquiring them, it’s important to inspect for any damage, particularly to delicate areas like necks, letters, halos, candleholders, and ensure the detailing remains intact and not chipped, cracked, or repaired.
This beautiful pristine set of Holt Howard Noel Candleholders is available now on at my shop Crazy4MeStyle
WARNING!! Blog has a lot of photos.
One sure way to any collector’s heart is items that come with their original boxes. For me, the box can also be used as part of your vintage holiday decor as they usually have timeless graphics that add so much charm to your displays.
Since these vintage items are usually 70 yrs old, if you do find an original box it will probably have some wear and tear or even water damage from being stored in basements and attics and that is completely okay and in my opinion, adds that much more to the story and history of the item.
Here are five of my very favorite Noel sets from my personal collection and I think they are just dynamite. Each set is so unique and has loads and loads of vintage Christmas charm. I actually have them up year-round in my cabinet and they always make me smile when I stop and admire them.
1950s Grimco Japan NOEL Bells Vintage Christmas1950s Grimco Japan NOEL Bells Vintage Christmas
Collector Alert: For Sale on Etsy – Vintage Christmas Extremely Rare NOEL Bell Set – World Creations by Grimco 1950s Japan MCM This 4 Piece Noel bells set of boys and girls made by World Creations by Grimco Japan 1950s.
This set is hard to find and very delicate, made from very fine ceramic so there may be light hairline cracks if you do come across a set. The facial expressions on these kids are so darling. In today’s market expect to pay $275-$325.
2. Christmas Cowboy Santa Noel Candle Holders set by Menschik Goldman in the 1950s. Santa is wearing his western hat with green and red holiday flair, his red suit complete with holster and pistol and his body spells out NOEL.
This set is very rare, I have only come across it one time and in today’s market expect to pay $299-$350.
Learn how your passion for mid-century modern can be turned into a hobby with the right knowledge and tools. This Kitschmas 101: The Best Tips to Collecting Mid-Century Christmas guide will teach you how to get started collecting vintage, kitschy holiday decor.
It’s that time of year again! The holidays are upon us and you know what that means… it’s time to dust off your collection of kitschmas figurines! For the uninitiated, kitschmas figurines are those adorable little statues or trinkets that depict festive scenes or characters.
They’re often made of ceramic or plastic, and they’re just begging to be collected! If you’re new to the world of collecting kitschmas figurines, don’t worry – this guide will teach you everything you need to know.
Kitschmas Figurines
Yasmina Greco and her Kitschmas Collectibles
The first thing you need to know about collecting vintage kitschmas figurines is that there is no wrong way to do it. Items from the 1950s-1960s typically fall into the vintage kitschmas category.
Whether you collect a specific type of figurine (e.g. only snowmen, shiny brite ornaments, tinsel trees, shopper girls, Santa’s, pixie elves, or angels), or you just buy whatever catches your eye, it’s all up to you! There are, however, a few tips and tricks that all collectors should keep in mind.
Vintage Norcrest Snowman Family Salt and Pepper Shakers
There’s something undeniably magical about vintage snowman figurines, especially those from the 1950s and 1960s. For many collectors, these charming figures evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, transporting us back to the simplicity and joy of yesteryears. As a fellow enthusiast, I’m excited to share some tips and fun facts with our collector group!
Pictures in this post are part of my vintage Kitschy Christmas snowman collection and some of my very favorites and I hope you enjoy.
Vintage Chained Snowman Family Japan 1950s
1. The Allure of the Era: The 1950s and 1960s were a golden era for whimsical and festive decorations. Snowman figurines from this period often feature unique designs and hand-painted details that are rare in today’s mass-produced items.
2. Materials and Craftsmanship: These figurines were often made from ceramics, wood, and even early forms of plastic. Their handcrafted nature means each piece has its own character. Look for signature styles like glossy finishes, vibrant colors, and artisan touches.
Norcrest Snowman
3. Identifying Authentic Pieces: One key to collecting is knowing how to identify authentic vintage pieces. Check for maker’s marks, dates, and country of origin. Some renowned manufacturers from this era include Lefton, Napco, Norcrest, Ucagco, and Holt Howard.
4. Rarity and Value: The rarity of a figurine can significantly impact its value. Rare pieces, or those from renowned manufacturers, are particularly sought after. But remember, the sentimental value often outweighs the monetary worth!
Vintage Josef Originals Snowman Planters or Candy Containers
5. Preserving Your Collection: To maintain their charm, it’s essential to properly care for these vintage treasures. Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, and clean them gently to avoid damaging the paint or material as many were cold painted and it can flake off.
Fun Fact: Did you know that in the 1950s and 1960s, snowman figurines were popular gifts and holiday decorations, often symbolizing the joy and wonder of the winter season?
Norcrest Snowman Kids Salt and Pepper Shakers
6. Community and Sharing: Joining groups like my Vintage Kitschy Christmas group is a fantastic way to share insights, find rare pieces, and celebrate the joy of collecting. Don’t hesitate to share your latest finds or seek advice from fellow collectors.
7. Enjoy the Hunt: Lastly, remember that part of the fun in collecting is the hunt itself. Whether it’s scouring antique shops, online auctions, or flea markets, each find has its own story.
Josef Originals Snowman Salt and Pepper Shakers
Collecting vintage snowman figurines is not just about owning a piece of history; it’s about preserving the warmth and joy of a bygone era. Let’s continue to share our passion and keep the spirit of these charming snowmen alive for generations to come!
Books
Best Collector Antique Books
There is no better way to learn about antiques than by absorbing as much knowledge as possible from books written by experts on the subject. These books cover vintage Christmas and kitschy mid-century modern antiques and collectibles with numerous photographs, details about when an item was made and even values (values that were published at the time the book was printed) and even include manufacturer markings and signatures, the different labels and tags too that an item might have and where the item was made. Here are a few titles worth checking out:
With these great resources available on vintage kitschy mid-century modern antiques and collectibles, there’s no excuse not to become an expert! Learning what there is to know about this era is easier than ever before. Happy hunting!
For collectors of holiday memorabilia, vintage Harold Gale Santa dolls hold a special place in the heart of Christmas nostalgia. Harold Gale, known for creating whimsical and charming Santa figures from the 1940s through the 1980s, left a legacy that continues to captivate collectors and holiday enthusiasts alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of collecting these delightful dolls, share the top five tips for collectors, and delve into the most desirable colors and their values.
Top 5 Tips for Collecting Harold Gale Santa Dolls
Know Your History: Understanding the history of Harold Gale and his company is crucial. His dolls were not just Christmas decorations; they were pieces of art. Each doll was handcrafted with attention to detail, making them unique.
Condition is Key: The condition of the doll significantly affects its value. Look for dolls with intact clothing, no missing parts, fluffy white beards, and minimal wear and tear. Original tags and boxes can significantly increase the doll’s worth.
Rare Colors and Designs: While traditional red is common, Harold Gale also produced Santa’s in rare colors like pink, silver, and gold. These unusual colors are often more sought after by collectors.
Verify Authenticity: With the popularity of these dolls, replicas and imitations have surfaced. Familiarize yourself with the specific characteristics of genuine Harold Gale dolls, such as the unique facial features, body shapes, and materials used.
Join Collector Groups: Engaging with other collectors through online forums or local clubs can provide valuable insights, tips, and sometimes access to rare finds.
Most Desirable Colors and Their Worth
Pink Harold Gayle Santa Claus
The most coveted Harold Gale Santa dolls are often those in unique colors. Here’s a look at some of the most desirable colors:
Pink: A pink Harold Gale Santa is a rare find and can fetch a high price, often ranging from $300 to $500, depending on the condition.
Silver and Gold: These colors are less common than the traditional red and can be worth anywhere from $200 to $400.
White and Cream: These elegant versions are also sought after, with values typically between $150 and $300.
Blue: Though less common, a blue Harold Gale Santa is a unique addition to any collection, potentially worth up to $350.
Green: A green Santa is a rare treasure and can command prices similar to the pink ones if in good condition.
Classic Red Harold Gale Santa
Conclusion
Collecting vintage Harold Gale Santa dolls is not just about the monetary value; it’s about preserving a piece of holiday history and the joy these charming figures bring. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, the world of Harold Gale Santas offers a delightful journey into the heart of Christmas nostalgia. Happy collecting!
Holt Howard Noel Santa Coffee Mug
Christmas coffee never tasted better than in a Holt Howard NOEL Santa inspired coffee mug!! Learn more here
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to spread cheer and nostalgia than by donning attire that harks back to the charming eras of the 1950s and 1960s? At Crazy4MeStyle, we’re excited to unveil our exclusive collection of festive attire, inspired by the iconic vintage items that have captivated hearts for generations.
Vintage Elegance Meets Modern Comfort
Our collection is a delightful blend of retro charm and contemporary style. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to evoke the warm, cheerful spirit of vintage Pyrex dishes, kitschy Christmas decor, and the beloved Holt Howard Santas and Pixieware. Imagine wearing a shirt that not only looks festive but also tells a story of a bygone era!
