When it comes to probate, porcelain is often overlooked and seen as decorative rather than valuable. But several names can command serious sums at auction.
While most solicitors will recognise names like Wedgwood or Royal Doulton, others with five-figure potential are routinely missed. At Swift Values, we specialise in helping probate professionals identify even the most unassuming high-value items.
Here are six porcelain makers that shouldn’t be ignored.
1) Moorcroft
Moorcroft pottery is often assumed to be low in value. But early 20th-century pieces, especially pre-war examples, are highly sought after.
They have also sadly announced that they will soon be going into administration, meaning that their pieces will only get rarer going forwards.
Characterised by rich glazes and tube-lined decoration, even common items sell for £50 to £200. Rare patterns, larger vases, and pieces signed by founder William Moorcroft can fetch thousands.
In 2025, a 1914 flambé “Carp” vase sold for over £31,000. We regularly come across valuable Moorcroft during probate visits—often mistaken for generic ornaments.
2) Clarice Cliff
Clarice Cliff’s cheerful, colourful ceramics often look like vintage kitchenware, but they have a strong following among collectors. Her bold Art Deco designs from the 1920s and 30s are particularly popular.
Individual pieces can sell for a few hundred pounds, while rarer examples—such as chargers or full tea sets—can reach five figures. One charger sold recently for £34,000.
Their playful style means they’re often missed in house clearances, despite being among the most valuable items in a home.
3) Royal Worcester
Not all Royal Worcester pieces are valuable, but some can be worth a small fortune. The key lies in decoration. Hand-painted fruit studies, especially those signed by known artists like Harry Ayrton or Horace Price, are highly collectable.
Most items fetch £100 to £500, but signed vases regularly reach thousands. One example at Bonhams was valued at over £100,000.
Without a trained eye, these pieces can be dismissed as standard ornaments—but that can be an expensive mistake.
4) Royal Crown Derby
Best known for its bone china and decorative paperweights, Royal Crown Derby often flies under the radar in probate.
Paperweights usually sell for £20 to £100, but limited editions and discontinued models can fetch more. A “Cheshire Cat” paperweight reached £650 at auction, and boxed examples tend to perform better.
They may look like tourist souvenirs, but collectors will pay serious money for the right piece.
5) Meissen
Founded in 1710, Meissen is Europe’s oldest porcelain maker, yet many people have never heard of it. Its distinctive crossed swords mark is key to identification.
Later pieces from the 20th century sell for £800 to £2,000, while rare 18th-century examples with royal links have reached six figures. Some exceptional vases have even sold for £1 million.
Often mistaken for generic European porcelain, Meissen can be one of the most valuable finds in an estate.
6) Capodimonte
Capodimonte figurines are common in house clearances, usually ornate and sentimental pieces from the 20th century worth under £100.
However, the name has royal origins. The original factory was founded in Naples in the 18th century by the Bourbon monarchy. Genuine early pieces are rare and valuable. A small Carlo III cup and saucer recently sold for around £7,000.
Modern pieces may not be worth much—but distinguishing them from true 18th-century Capodimonte is crucial.
Why This Matters in Probate
Due diligence in probate isn’t just paperwork. It’s about spotting value where others might not. A vase or figurine that looks ordinary could be worth thousands.
At Swift Values, our online valuations start at just £25 per item. For that price, it’s not worth the risk.
This article was submitted to be published by Swift Values as part of their advertising agreement with Today’s Wills and Probate. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Wills and Probate
