Disney Treasures: From Figaro to Corn Flakes

        For some time now, I've been wanting to create a series of posts that are dedicated to Disney collectibles that cross my path and/or enter my possession. This article serves as the introduction to this series, and will be followed up by many more as the weeks go on.

        Coincidentally, last week I received an email from a reader named Jane, who was inquiring about the history and value of a Figaro figurine she has had since she was very young. So, what makes Jane's inquiry a coincidence you ask? After I discovered for her the exact model, year, and approximate value of her figurine, almost a week later today, several vintage Figaro collectibles fell under my radar - a very rare occurrence based on my experience.

        It's no secret to those who know me why Figaro is a personal favorite. Pinocchio is not only my top Disney film, but my wife and I also own a black and white cat who share many of the mischievous kitten's traits. This combination has made the hunt for vintage Figaro pieces all the more endearing... but back to my story. While I was out on a "treasure hunt" today at a local flea market, I came across a matching pair of Figaro salt and pepper shakers, each blue in color. These two pieces were made by the National Porcelain Company in Pinocchio's release year of 1940. The dealer had no clue it was Figaro, but one look at the molds undeniably revealed the kitten's figure. A situation like this isn't exactly uncommon. Many times a vendor will have vintage or rare Disney collectibles on sale, and never even realize that they are Disney. After a very nice discussion with the vendor, I acquired the pair for $5.00, and then moved on.

        Low and behold, not even five feet away, was another Figaro discovery; one of a more interesting nature. This Figaro caught my eye because of the similarity is has to the Figaro figurines made by Brayton Laguna Pottery in the late 1930's and early 1940's. The height and width is not only similar, but so is the way it was hand-painted and molded. The interesting part - a small planter-like attachment was cast as a part of the mold. It may not be a revelation to some, but for me I have never seen this piece before. At the base, I initially checked if it was stamped "Geppetto Pottery" (which would have meant it was made by Brayton Laguna Pottery), but this was not the case. Instead it read: MADE IN OCCUPIED JAPAN. There are no Disney markings on the piece from what I can see, but if it's not a Figaro piece, I'll eat my hat. I comfortably paid $15.00 for this collectible, and feel pretty sure about my judgement. If anyone knows anything about this Figaro however, I'd love to hear from you!

        The final piece of the day was actually the reason why I paid this flea market a visit in the first place. It has not only been sitting in a display case for many months now, but it has also be gnawing on my mind since my last visit. It was no surprise to me that this item was still there - considering this particular vendor's very high prices. There before me was a Donald Duck plastic ring from a 1949 Kellogg's Corn Flakes premium offer. According to my Hake's Disney Price Guide, this ring originally came with a Kellogg's Corn Flakes magnet and a four paged instruction sheet. This piece was known as a "Living Toy" Ring, and is considered to be very collectible today. I paid $23.00 for the ring, but if it had included the original magnet as well, I'm sure the vendor would have asked for much more.

Until next time... Happy Hunting!