Could your old cookie jar be worth thousands? These 14 might be hiding in plain sight
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That old cookie jar sitting on your counter could be more than a charming kitchen accessory—it might be a valuable collector’s item.
Many vintage jars from the mid-1900s are now sought after by collectors who appreciate their craftsmanship, design, and nostalgic appeal.
Some were once everyday items, passed down through generations or picked up at garage sales for just a few dollars.
But thanks to their rarity and historical value, a select few have sold for hundreds—or even thousands—at auction.
Here’s a look at 14 cookie jars that could turn your kitchen shelf into a surprising source of treasure.
Cookie jars first rose to popularity in the 1930s, when American pottery companies began creating decorative ceramic containers for the home.
These jars became canvases for playful and artistic designs, often reflecting pop culture, fairy tales, and Americana.
Over the years, they evolved from simple storage to beloved collectibles.
Today, jars made by certain makers or in limited runs have become highly valuable to collectors.
Their charm lies in the nostalgia they evoke and the craftsmanship behind them.
Let’s open the lid on some of the most eye-catching cookie jars that have recently made headlines for their value.
1. Don Rickles Golden Saloon Cookie Jar
Made by Jim Bailey, this elaborate slot machine-themed jar fetched $800 at auction in 2022.
Bailey pottery pieces are worth investigating if you happen to have any.
2. Momoyo Torimitsu Ceramic Bunny Cookie Jar
Designed by Japanese artist Momoyo Torimitsu, this whimsical jar with a removable head-lid sold for $3,000 in 2025—showing that not all valuable jars are decades old.
3. Brayton Laguna Pottery Coachman Cookie Jar
This character jar, inspired by the Coachman from Pinocchio, had a limited run.
A red-cloaked version sold for $3,500, while a green variant brought in $1,800.
4. Yardbird Raccoon Cookie Jar
Folk pottery artist Jerry Yarborough’s raccoon jar sold for $850 in 2024.
Yardbird pieces remain popular among collectors for their detailed and quirky designs.
5. RRP Co. The Cow Jumped Over the Moon Cookie Jar
Dating back to the 1950s, this nursery rhyme-themed jar regularly sells for $200 or more on vintage marketplaces.
6. Peter Max Ceramic Cookie Jar
The psychedelic “Zero” jar by artist Peter Max blends bold design with kitchenware.
It sold for $650 and stands out as a functional piece of pop art.
7. American Bisque Baby Huey Cookie Jar
This plump duckling jar from the 1950s is a favorite among cartoon fans and collectors.
One example recently sold for $1,200.
8. Holt Howard Pixie Elf Cookie Jar
From the iconic Pixieware line, this mid-century jar often sells for around $200 online—especially in good condition.
9. Shawnee Cottage Cookie Jar
Charming and glazed both inside and out, Shawnee’s cottage-shaped jars are well-loved.
Depending on condition, some have sold for several hundred dollars.
10. McCoy Astronaut Cookie Jar
McCoy pottery is known for its value, and this rare astronaut-themed jar can sell for over $1,000.
Though slightly eerie in design, it’s highly collectible.
11. Lefton Baker Boy Cookie Jar
This cheerful 1950s figure has sold for around $380 and is often recognized for its rosy cheeks and friendly expression.
12. Glenn Appleman Vintage Car Cookie Jar
Appleman’s colorful ceramic cars are collector favorites.
Some jars in this series have sold for up to $600 each.
13. Regal China Alice in Wonderland Cookie Jar
Regal China’s “Frightened Alice” jar sold for $1,000 in 2015.
Its rarity and whimsical design make it especially appealing to collectors and fans of Lewis Carroll.
14. Metlox Little Red Riding Hood Cookie Jar
Fairy tale themes are a common favorite, and this jar has been listed for $500.
Metlox pottery, in general, is highly sought after by vintage enthusiasts.
Not all cookie jars will fetch a high price, but several factors can make one stand out:
If you think you might have a valuable cookie jar, here are a few ways to protect and identify it:
More than just collectibles, cookie jars often carry personal memories—childhood snacks, family holidays, or kitchen moments long past.
They’re part of the emotional fabric of home life. Whether you’re a serious collector or just curious, your jar might hold more than cookies—it might hold history.
If this article has you scanning your kitchen shelves or visiting your local thrift store with new eyes, you’re not alone.
Cookie jars are just one of many vintage kitchen items that have become surprisingly valuable.
From Pyrex to cast iron, there’s a world of hidden treasures waiting to be rediscovered.
Read next: This rare Pyrex dish could be worth $6,000—do you have one in your cabinet?
Do you have a cookie jar that’s been in the family for decades—or one you found at a yard sale? Share your story in the comments. It might just turn out to be sweeter than you thought.
Many vintage jars from the mid-1900s are now sought after by collectors who appreciate their craftsmanship, design, and nostalgic appeal.
Some were once everyday items, passed down through generations or picked up at garage sales for just a few dollars.
But thanks to their rarity and historical value, a select few have sold for hundreds—or even thousands—at auction.
Here’s a look at 14 cookie jars that could turn your kitchen shelf into a surprising source of treasure.
Vintage cookie jars can hold both sweet memories and surprising value. Image Source: Pexels / Lisa from Pexels.
Why cookie jars became collectibles
Cookie jars first rose to popularity in the 1930s, when American pottery companies began creating decorative ceramic containers for the home.
These jars became canvases for playful and artistic designs, often reflecting pop culture, fairy tales, and Americana.
Over the years, they evolved from simple storage to beloved collectibles.
Today, jars made by certain makers or in limited runs have become highly valuable to collectors.
Their charm lies in the nostalgia they evoke and the craftsmanship behind them.
Also read: Hidden treasure unveiled: This family’s antique coins are worth a fortune!
14 cookie jars worth a closer look
Let’s open the lid on some of the most eye-catching cookie jars that have recently made headlines for their value.
1. Don Rickles Golden Saloon Cookie Jar
Made by Jim Bailey, this elaborate slot machine-themed jar fetched $800 at auction in 2022.
Bailey pottery pieces are worth investigating if you happen to have any.
A playful Don Rickles Golden Saloon cookie jar that once sold for $800 at auction. Image source: WorthPoint Corporation.
2. Momoyo Torimitsu Ceramic Bunny Cookie Jar
Designed by Japanese artist Momoyo Torimitsu, this whimsical jar with a removable head-lid sold for $3,000 in 2025—showing that not all valuable jars are decades old.
This whimsical ceramic bunny by Momoyo Torimitsu fetched $3,000 for its artistic flair. Image source: MutualArt Services, Inc..
3. Brayton Laguna Pottery Coachman Cookie Jar
This character jar, inspired by the Coachman from Pinocchio, had a limited run.
A red-cloaked version sold for $3,500, while a green variant brought in $1,800.
The Brayton Laguna Pottery Coachman jar, inspired by Pinocchio, is a rare collector’s gem. Image source: Hake's Auctions.
4. Yardbird Raccoon Cookie Jar
Folk pottery artist Jerry Yarborough’s raccoon jar sold for $850 in 2024.
Yardbird pieces remain popular among collectors for their detailed and quirky designs.
Jerry Yarborough’s detailed Yardbird raccoon cookie jar remains a favorite among folk art fans. Image source: AOL / liveauctioneers.com and Cagle Auction Co.
Also read: 9 coins that could be worth a fortune – check your pockets and purses immediately!
5. RRP Co. The Cow Jumped Over the Moon Cookie Jar
Dating back to the 1950s, this nursery rhyme-themed jar regularly sells for $200 or more on vintage marketplaces.
This 1950s nursery rhyme cookie jar by RRP Co. is a sweet nod to childhood nostalgia. Image source: Silver Quill Antiques.
6. Peter Max Ceramic Cookie Jar
The psychedelic “Zero” jar by artist Peter Max blends bold design with kitchenware.
It sold for $650 and stands out as a functional piece of pop art.
7. American Bisque Baby Huey Cookie Jar
This plump duckling jar from the 1950s is a favorite among cartoon fans and collectors.
One example recently sold for $1,200.
The plump and charming Baby Huey cookie jar from the 1950s is a collector’s delight. Image source: Hake's Auctions.
8. Holt Howard Pixie Elf Cookie Jar
From the iconic Pixieware line, this mid-century jar often sells for around $200 online—especially in good condition.
Holt Howard’s Pixie Elf jar is part of the iconic mid-century Pixieware collection. Image source: Etsy (CrazyMOD).
Also read: This everyday accessory could be worth a fortune—one man’s discovery leaves him speechless
9. Shawnee Cottage Cookie Jar
Charming and glazed both inside and out, Shawnee’s cottage-shaped jars are well-loved.
Depending on condition, some have sold for several hundred dollars.
Shawnee’s cottage-shaped cookie jars are beloved for their classic, cozy design. Image source: WorthPoint Corporation.
10. McCoy Astronaut Cookie Jar
McCoy pottery is known for its value, and this rare astronaut-themed jar can sell for over $1,000.
Though slightly eerie in design, it’s highly collectible.
McCoy’s astronaut cookie jar blends mid-century charm with space-age curiosity. Image source: LiveAuctioneers.
11. Lefton Baker Boy Cookie Jar
This cheerful 1950s figure has sold for around $380 and is often recognized for its rosy cheeks and friendly expression.
This chubby-cheeked Lefton Baker Boy jar remains a cheerful kitchen classic. Image source: eBay (chochie4977).
12. Glenn Appleman Vintage Car Cookie Jar
Appleman’s colorful ceramic cars are collector favorites.
Some jars in this series have sold for up to $600 each.
Glenn Appleman’s vintage car jars combine collectible ceramics with retro auto flair. Image source: eBay (8289raymond).
Also read: These forgotten finds may be hiding in plain sight—and they could be worth a small fortune
13. Regal China Alice in Wonderland Cookie Jar
Regal China’s “Frightened Alice” jar sold for $1,000 in 2015.
Its rarity and whimsical design make it especially appealing to collectors and fans of Lewis Carroll.
Regal China’s “Frightened Alice” jar brings Lewis Carroll’s classic to life. Image source: WorthPoint Corporation.
14. Metlox Little Red Riding Hood Cookie Jar
Fairy tale themes are a common favorite, and this jar has been listed for $500.
Metlox pottery, in general, is highly sought after by vintage enthusiasts.
Metlox’s Little Red Riding Hood cookie jar remains a sought-after fairy tale favorite. Image source: Fridayin Store.
Also read: 16 surprising yard sale finds that could be worth a fortune
What makes a cookie jar valuable?
Not all cookie jars will fetch a high price, but several factors can make one stand out:
- Rarity: Limited editions or discontinued designs are more valuable.
- Condition: Chips, cracks, or missing lids reduce value significantly. Original lids and intact paint are ideal.
- Maker: Pieces from companies like McCoy, Shawnee, Hull, and Appleman are consistently in demand.
- Design: Jars with iconic characters, detailed themes, or artistic flair often fetch the highest prices.
- Provenance: Documentation or a known history of ownership can raise collector interest.
Also read: Score unexpected deals! Discover Hobby Lobby’s vintage-inspired tableware before they’re gone!
Tips for identifying and caring for your cookie jar
If you think you might have a valuable cookie jar, here are a few ways to protect and identify it:
- Look underneath: Check for stamps, labels, or maker’s marks on the bottom.
- Handle carefully: Always lift from the base, not the lid, to avoid damage.
- Clean gently: Use mild soap and avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing.
- Display safely: Keep out of direct sunlight and away from edges to avoid accidental falls.
Also read: Hidden treasures: The surprising value of vintage magazines
Cookie jars as keepsakes
More than just collectibles, cookie jars often carry personal memories—childhood snacks, family holidays, or kitchen moments long past.
They’re part of the emotional fabric of home life. Whether you’re a serious collector or just curious, your jar might hold more than cookies—it might hold history.
If this article has you scanning your kitchen shelves or visiting your local thrift store with new eyes, you’re not alone.
Cookie jars are just one of many vintage kitchen items that have become surprisingly valuable.
From Pyrex to cast iron, there’s a world of hidden treasures waiting to be rediscovered.
Read next: This rare Pyrex dish could be worth $6,000—do you have one in your cabinet?
Do you have a cookie jar that’s been in the family for decades—or one you found at a yard sale? Share your story in the comments. It might just turn out to be sweeter than you thought.
