Liberty Blue Dinnerware

by Debbie Coe, Randy Coe

Blue and white ironstone dinnerware has been collected for many years, and the introduction of the Liberty Blue pattern in 1975 by Enoch Wedgwood of England, with its fifteen different historic scenes of colonial America, brought forth keen interest. Here the Old North Church, Minutemen, West Point, Independence Hall, Mount Vernon, and many more historic sites are shown. The Liberty Blue promotion coincided with America's Bicentennial celebrations, causing more people to become interested in owning a set for themselves. Color photographs beautifully illustrate all the pieces in a complete set, and interesting facts are given about each historic scene. Prices are included in the captions and the associated glassware and ceramic pieces are carefully described. Original advertisements and brochures are included to provide extensive accurate information. This is the first book about Liberty Blue dinnerware and is sure to become a valuable reference guide for collectors trying to build a complete set.

Paperback

First published June 30, 2006

Reviews

[Pamela D. Jarnagin · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gold Standard by the recognized authorities on all things Liberty Blue. A must read for the casual seller as well as the serious collector. Especially helpful and interesting is the history discussing the creation of the dinnerware as a promotional incentive awarded to depositors of the Benjamin Franklin Savings and Loan Association to it's current status as a valuable collectible. I also appreciate the section discussing companion products.

As someone who lived during the USA Bicentennial Celebration, as well as someone who possesses a passion for both transferware and history, I am a collector for whom this tiny treatise is an invaluable resource regarding the value of my collection, which pieces I still lack, possible counterfeits, and price information crucial for purchase and resell. A bonus is that it's also a fascinating read. I recommend this book to anyone interested in Liberty Blue Dinnerware.

[Virginia Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Liberty Blue Dinnerware", by Debbie and Randy Coe, is a very special read for collectors of Liberty Blue Ironstone. I have this dinnerware, and it is really beautiful--so much deep blue! It has great sentimental value because Mom and I collected the pieces each week from the local A&P grocery store during the Bicentennial Era of the late 1970's. The pieces were just 69 cents each! I only have the plates, saucers, small bowls, and teacups, I would love to have a complete set which includes the serving pieces. This book is very informative about the beginnings of Liberty Blue in 1975 when it was commissioned by the Benjamin Franklin Savings & Loan to offer to account holders in celebration of the S&L's 50th anniversary. Historic scenes from Colonial America are depicted in detailed artwork on each piece. The book is filled with photos and illustrations, including the original advertisements run by the S&L. I was amazed to see the extensive variety of the pieces which goes way beyond my collection, and it made long to collect some of those unique items. Whether you are a Liberty Blue collector, a history buff, or are enamored of Americana, you will greatly enjoy this book.