Lenox birds are a popular collectible figural made by the Lenox China company. They were first introduced in the 1970s and new issues continue to be released every year. With their hand-painted details and quality craftsmanship, Lenox birds attract collectors looking for beautiful porcelain decorations. But are these bird figurines actually worth anything from a financial perspective?
What are Lenox birds?
Lenox birds are porcelain figural sculptures made by Lenox China. The company was founded in 1889 in Trenton, New Jersey and began producing fine china dinnerware. In the 1970s, Lenox expanded into figurines and sculptures, including launching their Signature Birds collection. This line featured miniature hand-painted and hand-sculpted bird figurines crafted from Lenox fine ivory china. The bird sculptures were designed to sit on tabletops or shelves as decorative objects. Over the years, Lenox has released birds depicting various North American songbird species, seabirds, exotic birds, and even fantasy-inspired bird designs.
Each Lenox bird is carefully hand-crafted and hand-painted by artisans. The figurines feature remarkable realism and vibrant colors applied with delicate brushstrokes. Details like feathers and beaks are intricately sculpted and painted. Most of the birds are posed standing on matching porcelain bases etched with the Lenox name and design name. Many bird designs are retired after several years, although Lenox often issues new color variations. Some of the most popular long-lasting Lenox bird series include Songbirds, Perching Birds, True Life Birds, and Miniature Songbirds.
What factors impact the value of Lenox birds?
As with any collectible, several factors influence the current market value of Lenox bird figurines:
- Age and rarity – Older Lenox birds that have been retired usually command higher prices than currently produced birds. Rarer designs also fetch higher premiums.
- Condition – Lenox birds in pristine condition with no damages, paint loss, or repairs bring higher prices.
- Desirability – More intricate sculpts and unique or exotic bird breeds tend to be more desirable.
- Production number – Limited edition Lenox birds numbered low in the series often cost more.
- Box and paperwork – Having the original Lenox box and paperwork like certificates of authenticity increases value for collectors.
In addition, factors like the economy, collectibles trends, and supply and demand all impact the current market value of Lenox birds.
What’s the price range for Lenox birds?
Lenox birds can sell for a wide range of prices depending on age, rarity, condition, and demand. Here are some typical price ranges:
- Common currently produced birds – $40-$100
- Vintage 1980s-1990s retired birds – $75-$250
- Rare vintage or limited edition birds – $200-$500
- One-of-a-kind artist proof birds – $600-$1,000+
However, some exceptional Lenox birds in perfect condition, special limited editions, or very rare designs can sell for several thousand dollars. For example, a rare 1989 Ivory Billed Woodpecker recently sold for over $4,000 at auction.
Where to buy and sell Lenox birds
There are several options for buying and selling Lenox bird figurines:
- Online marketplaces – eBay, Etsy, and Ruby Lane have listings for both new and vintage Lenox birds.
- Auction sites – LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable feature Lenox birds in collectibles auctions.
- Lenox stores – The Lenox company still sells current bird designs on their website and in retail stores.
- Brick-and-mortar shops – Antique stores, gift shops, and vintage collectible shops may carry Lenox birds.
- Collector clubs – Connecting with the Lenox Collectors Club can help you buy, sell, or trade.
When buying, be sure to inspect photos closely and ask questions to verify condition and authenticity. Research sold prices to help determine fair market value. Obtain certificates of authenticity when possible.
Are Lenox birds still being produced?
Yes, Lenox continues to produce new Signature Birds collections every year. Recent series include the endangered Florida Scrub Jay, Carolina Parakeet, Great Horned Owls, and Scarlet Macaws. Most new releases are numbered limited editions ranging between 250 and 750 pieces. The company creates new sculptures based on consumer demand and often retires less popular issues after a couple years. While still in production, most new Lenox birds initially retail for $70-$125 directly from Lenox.
Do Lenox birds increase in value?
Over time, prices for Lenox birds generally increase, especially after a particular design has been retired. However, the rate of appreciation depends on several factors:
- Very limited edition and rare birds tend to escalate in value more quickly.
- Unique or one-of-a-kind specimen can appreciate rapidly.
- Common mass-produced birds may only slowly increase in value.
- Market demand plays a role – popular breeds gain value faster.
- Condition is key – flaws, damage, or repairs will inhibit value growth.
Well cared for Lenox birds in pristine condition and in-demand designs can potentially double in resale value over 5-10 years. However, value appreciation is never guaranteed with collectibles.
What are some of the rarest Lenox birds?
Some of the rarest and most valuable Lenox birds include:
- Ivory Billed Woodpecker – Made 1989-1990, only 600 issued
- Carolina Parakeet – 600 made from 2019-2020
- Bald Eagles – 750 made from 2018-2020
- Peregrine Falcon – 750 made from 1985-1990
- Flamingo #1 – 500 made in 1988
- Golden Pheasant – 750 made from 1990-1993
- Swallow-Tailed Kite – 500 made in 1992
- Painted Bunting – 250 made in 2016
Early individual artist proof birds numbered A/P or P/P can also be extremely rare and collectible.
Are discontinued Lenox birds more valuable?
In most cases, Lenox bird figurines increase in value once they have been retired and discontinued from production. The scarcity makes them more desirable to collectors seeking certain sculptures. Out of production birds also mean a finite supply available on the secondary market.
However, just because a Lenox bird is retired doesn’t guarantee substantial value. Mass produced designs numbered in the thousands were still abundant. Condition, desirability, and demand are still key price factors. But in general, discontinuation typically gives a bump to secondary market prices.
How can you tell if a Lenox bird is a fake?
Some tips for spotting fake Lenox bird figurines:
- Look for neat, precise stamps and markings – fakes tend to have poorly stamped logos.
- Inspect the quality and color of the porcelain – lower grade porcelain prone to more flaws.
- Examine paint details – fakers often miss intricate brushstrokes.
- Heaviness can indicate authenticity – solid Lenox porcelain tends to have some heft.
- Look for omitted design features present on authentic versions.
- If possible, compare to images of genuine articles.
Authenticating Lenox birds usually requires examining intricate details and relying on experience. When in doubt, consult a reputable Lenox dealer or appraiser.
What are some tips for collecting Lenox birds?
Here are some tips for successfully collecting Lenox porcelain birds:
- Focus on quality over quantity – Having a few pristine condition specimens is preferable for long term value than a large quantity in poor shape.
- Research carefully and authenticate before purchasing high-end pieces.
- Handle with care – Use both hands and tissue paper to prevent oils and friction damage.
- Display wisely – Avoid direct sunlight which can cause fading. Use museum wax to secure to stands.
- Keep original boxes and COAs.
- Maintain detailed records of your collection.
- Insure your collection – Expensive Lenox birds may need added protection.
- Connect with other Lenox collectors to buy, sell, and trade.
Are Lenox birds a good investment?
Collecting Lenox porcelain birds can be a gratifying hobby and meaningful investment. However, like any collectible, there are risks involved. Values can fluctuate over time based on factors like demand, supply, and economic conditions. There are never any guarantees pieces will appreciate. However, Lenox birds remain popular among collectors, with certain designs and well cared for examples retaining and gaining value in the secondary market. For investors focused on quality over quantity, targeting rare, early, or limited production Lenox birds in mint condition can potentially yield solid returns over the years.
Conclusion
With their artistic craftsmanship and variety of bird species, Lenox china birds have captivated collectors for decades. The figurines display remarkable realism through detailed sculpting and hand-painted designs. While common Lenox birds sell for fairly reasonable prices, truly rare or one-of-a-kind specimens can command several thousand dollars among enthusiasts. Factors like age, condition, supply, and desirability all influence current values. When collected wisely, higher end Lenox birds stand a chance of appreciating over time, making them a cherished and potentially lucrative investment for bird and porcelain lovers.