Buying & Selling

We are always interested in Trading Pot Lids & Jars. Especially pieces we do not have in our collection.

If we do have an example, then we are only too happy to discuss what a fair current market selling price is and we are also able to broker a sale for a nominal fee 

with other collectors, for a honest and fair market price. Many of the items we sell for people who contact us, are supplied with up to date auction and sale records of items that have "SOLD"

Appreciate sale prices are arbitrary figures and seeing an item for sale doesn't necessarily mean it is a current market value.

In fact many lids have fallen in value in recent times. Especially common examples with a book value of £40-60. Whereas lids depicting a Bear have remained stable and in some cases, have risen in value.

We use Keith Mortimer's Price Guide on the Staffordshire types or Coloured examples and often sale records on many of the other types.

Our Charges are usually a flat 12.5% for any individual item up to £500 or $1000US and 10% thereafter. We cover your postage cost by charging buyers a postage surcharge fee. 

No other hidden costs such as buyers premium.

Because we have many people contacting us, we do not provide a valuation service unless you genuinely wish to sell an item.

Wanted to Buy!

John is constantly on the look out for quality items. If you have any items at all that may be of interest or similar to the items pictured on this page, please contact him. Or alternatively, if you would like a free appraisal he would only be too happy to oblige.

Testimonials

Lesley (Liverpool UK)

Having looked around and found Johns website, I dropped him an email, we exchanged a few pictures, I didn't know really what I had. John was very kind and professional in letting me know. It was all so easy, yes I was sceptical putting my trust in someone I'd never met as most people would be, but John was very professional and so easy to talk too I'm so pleased I dealt with him. I would defiantly recommend him to deal with, and found him both honest and respectful. One of the nicest people.

Mike B (Los Angeles CA)

After finding two Pratt jars in my parent’s house and doing a little research on the internet, it became apparent that John is the expert on Pratt jars. He is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable on the subject and was very helpful in determining the value and finding a buyer for my Pratt jars. Interactions with him were always easy and straightforward and I found him to be extremely trustworthy.

Jude (NZ)

After finding John’s details online I sent a very naive email, with some very bad pictures of my lids, asking for help re their possible worth. From that moment on John was incredibly helpful and responsive with no obligation to sell through him. I chose to do so and he got me a wonderful result, keeping me updated regularly throughout the process. I cannot recommendation him highly enough, his friendliness, professionalism and knowledge made the process completely stress free for me and I thank him for this.

C. Moore (Canterbury UK)

Had several Pot Lids in frames and after stumbling on this website, we contacted John and he showed us current values and managed to achieve well over twice as much as we were previously offered. We highly recommend him.

Christiane & Kevin (Swindon UK)

I was so impressed with the way you advised and guided me every step of the way in selling my jars and pot lids. You are a total professional with years of knowledge. You did everything you said you would do and I was thrilled with the result. A five star service. Thank you so much.

Bronte (Philadelphia USA)

Had a talk to John over the phone and he definitely knows his Pot Lids & Jars. He pointed out a slight variation and got me a gob of money. This is definitely the man. Would encourage people just to send him an email.

Reece (Sydney Australia)

I am thrilled to share my experience working with John Foumakis, who recently assisted me in selling a collection of antique pot lids. From the very beginning, John displayed a deep knowledge of the market and a genuine passion for antiques. He took the time to understand the unique qualities of each piece and guided me through the selling process with clarity and professionalism.

John achieved honest prices for my items, ensuring I felt valued and respected as a seller. What truly impressed me was his low commission rate, which made the entire experience even more rewarding. His dedication and integrity set him apart, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you’re looking for someone to handle your antiques with care and expertise, I wholeheartedly recommend John!

June 2024

R & P ( United Kingdom)

I have recently sold a significant number of Pot Lids through John and his wife Penelope and have been very pleased with their very professional, efficient service.
John Foumakis has exceptional knowledge on Pratt Pot Lids and Jars and has been very willing to share his considerable knowledge and achieving fair prices.
The commission charged is significantly less than any U.K. Auction Houses and in addition John refunds all postage costs.
I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending his Company should anybody wish to sell their Pot Lids or Jar Collections.

RPA/October 2024
Sale for this very badly stained jar or pot depicting the Great Exhibition of 1851 at Hyde Park. The Crystal Palace, as it was known, was also held in New York in 1853.

Sale for this example
was for $1000 or more.

Many of these are appearing in the USA, where no doubt they were marketed by a retailer in later years, who very likely won a prize at the Great Exhibition.


Recent sale for a client at £215

Wanted by a client. This lid transferred Wright's Pure Ox Marrow For Promoting the Growth of Hair Prepared by R & G. A. Wright Philadelphia. This lids will fit the jar in the pic below

Our Client is prepared to pay over $400US for a good example to complete his jar

Wanted by a client. The lid pictured above that is transferred, Wright's Pure Ox Marrow For Promoting the Growth of Hair Prepared by R & G. A. Wright Philadelphia. This will fit this jar in the pic

Our Client is prepared to pay over $400US for a good example to complete his jar