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BESWICK POTTERY BACKSTAMPS

Beswick Pottery dates back to 1894 when James Wright Beswick began producing pottery in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent.  Throughout its history, Beswick used various backstamps, which can help to identify the approximate age of a particular piece.

Here is a general overview of the history of Beswick backstamps.

Early Marks (1894 – 1930s)

In the early years, Beswick pottery featured simple backstamps usually comprising the name “Beswick” along with other details such as “Made in England” and the item number.  These marks were impressed or incised onto the pottery.

Beswick Ware (1930s – 1940s)

During the 1930s, Beswick introduced the “Beswick Ware” stamp.  These stamps were typically printed in brown or gold and often included the words “Beswick Ware” along with a floral design or other decorative elements.

Post War Period (1940s – 1960s)

After World War II, Beswick expanded its range of products, particularly focusing on animal figurines.  Backstamps during this era usually featured the word “Beswick” along with other identifiers like the item number and sometimes the specific animal’s name.

Gold Script Mark (1954 – 1971)

From 1954 to 1971, Beswick employed a backstamp featuring the word “Beswick” in gold script, often accompanied by the phrase “Made in England” and the item number.

Circular Mark (1954 – 1971)

Concurrently with the gold script mark, Beswick also used a circular backstamp during this period.  This mark typically featured a simple circular design with “Beswick England” written around the edge.

Impressed Marks (1971 – 2002)

From 1971 until Beswick ceased production in 2002, the company predominantly used impressed marks, which were stamped into the pottery itself.  These marks usually included the word “Beswick” along with additional details such as the item number, model name, or copyright information.

In 1969 Beswick Pottery was sold to Doulton & Co. Ltd (Royal Doulton), and although animal figures continued to be produced, by 1989, the Beswick backstamp was dropped in favour of the Royal Doulton Royal Albert DA backstamp.

Another Beswick backstamp version included John Beswick’s signature.

There is also a Beswick version that has a black crest with a big “B”, made in England.

These backstamps provide collectors with valuable insights into the age and authenticity of Beswick pottery pieces, helping to preserve the rich history and legacy of this iconic English ceramics company.

We can value and assist with the sale of single items of Beswick or whole collections! We can also value other pottery such as Royal Doulton, Wedgwood and Moorcroft, jewellery, gold and silver, militaria and military items, advertising items, enamel signs, furniture and much more!

For more information about our Valuation Days, selling at auction or for any enquiries, you can contact us by emailing info@leightonhallauctions.com, calling the office on 01785 561799, texting 07376 039387 or by filling out a contact form on our website at www.leightonhallauctions.com.