Vintage Manning Bowman & Co. Spun Brass Coffee Pot with Bakelite Handle
Manning-Bowman & Co. (Likely, based on design and finial style) · Kitchenware > Coffee & Tea Service
Era / Decade
Late 19th to Early 20th Century (1890s-1910s)
Material
Spun brass body, cast brass base and lid, carved Bakelite or hard rubber handle, and steel hinge pins.
Condition
Fair to Good. The piece shows significant surface oxidation and verdigris (green patina). The metal is tarnished with signs of water spots or chemical etching. The handle appears intact without major cracks.
Demand Level
Moderate. Antique brass remains popular for staging and interior design, though utilitarian metalware has a niche collector market.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $85.00 (Adjusted for modern equivalent of high-end brass serving ware)
Comparable Sales
Similar late-1800s brass coffee servers typically sell for $30-$50 on eBay. Pieces with a high-shine polish can reach $60, while heavily tarnished pieces like this one usually settle in the $25 range to account for the buyer's cleaning labor.
Description
This is a beautiful example of early American metalware. This tall, elegant coffee pot features a tapered body made of spun brass with a stepped base. It includes a classic acorn-style finial on a hinged lid and a scrolled black heat-resistant handle. Its tall, slender silhouette is characteristic of the late Victorian to early Edwardian era transition.
Key Features
High-quality spun brass construction; authentic antique patina; original heat-resistant handle (likely Bakelite); classic silhouette suitable for Farmhouse, Victorian, or Industrial decor styles.
Authenticity Indicators
The construction method (spun metal lines visible on interior), the weight of the base, and the specific ergonomic curve of the handle are consistent with late 19th-century American manufacturers like Manning-Bowman or Benedict. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Extensive surface tarnish and dark spotting across the main body. Some verdigris (green corrosion) around the base and lid seam which requires careful cleaning. Minor surface scratches consistent with age.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage/antique items), eBay (best for specialized collectors), or Facebook Marketplace (if selling as a decor piece to local buyers).
Selling Tips
Do NOT over-polish. Many collectors prefer the original patina. Use keywords like 'Victorian Brass,' 'Steampunk Decor,' and 'Antique Percolator.' Specifically mention if the interior is clean enough for use or if it is for 'Decor Only.' Photograph the bottom to show any potential maker's marks.