Not Just Old Kitchenware: The Valuable Vintage Cookie Jar That's A Rare Thrift Find

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It's not often that the cookie jar is more enticing than the treats inside. Then again, it's not often the cookie jar in question is a Shawnee Smiley Pig cookie jar. This ceramic jar rivals some of the most valuable kitchenware at thrift stores. Throughout each iteration of the accessory, the little hog is standing on two hooves (colors and motifs vary), smiling with its eyes closed, lashes fluttered, and sporting a scarf. This little piggy went to market and gave avid collectors something to talk about 89 years after its creation. 

Back in Ohio in 1937, A.E. Hull Jr., whose father ran The Hull Pottery Company, began Shawnee Pottery and claimed to produce 100,000 ceramic pieces per day. Though it might be difficult to track down those exact numbers, one fact can be confirmed: The pig is a prized possession. This valuable vintage cookie jar typically sells for an average of $150 or more, depending on condition. A cloverbud Smiley Pig sold at auction in 2002 for $6,750. Shawnee made other ceramics in shapes such as corn, owls, puppies, and kittens, all sporting the same playful aesthetic. Should you set your sights on a smaller accessory, salt and pepper shakers are also among the offerings.

Keeping your eyes peeled for the pig? A legitimate Smiley Pig can be difficult to spot because Shawnee Pottery only used paper labels when items departed from the factory. However, there is likely a "USA" marked on the bottom of the company's work. Some pigs sport gold trim (and the prices reflect it). Just keep in mind that the company stopped operating in 1961 and The New Shawnee Pottery Company sprung up in the 90s in an attempt to create a new line of cookie jars. If you see "Shawnee" inscribed on the bottom of any of your thrift shop finds, it's likely from this company, not the original. 

Should you be among the lucky shoppers to snag a pig for your place, you'll likely want to play up retro kitchen decor ideas. Keep old-school styles in mind, like checkered prints, tiled surfaces, and the 50s-famous pastel accents. Even if you can't necessarily reconstruct your entire kitchen, start by making Smiley Piggy the star of the show and place complementary natural and handmade accessories in its vicinity to bring an authentic feel to your space. Oh, and don't forget the cookies.