Jim Beam decanters

🔎 Item Overview

Category: Ceramics and Porcelains
Medium: Glazed ceramic and porcelain
Manufacturer: Regal China Corporation (produced for Jim Beam)
Distributor: James B. Beam Distilling Co.
Period of Production: 1961–1979
Condition: Good to Excellent (based on photos and provided info)
Size: Varies; most between 11–13 inches tall
Weight: Varies per decanter (generally 1.5–3 lbs each)

🏺 Individual Decanter Descriptions & Valuations

1. 1969 Yellow Roses Decanter

• Design: Pale olive-green ceramic ewer with a yellow rose motif framed in white and gold trim. Embossed design and matching stopper.
• Backstamp: “Creation of James B. Beam… Regal China… 1969…”
• Condition: Excellent (stopper intact, glaze appears unmarred).
• Value Estimate: $25–$40

2. 1969 Lombard Centennial Lilac Decanter

• Design: Ivory and lavender teardrop form with lilac blossoms in relief. Commemorates Lombard, IL's centennial (1869–1969).
• Backstamp: “Creation of James B. Beam… Lombard Centennial 1869–1969… C. Miller 1969…”
• Condition: Very Good (light wear, stopper intact).
• Value Estimate: $30–$45
  This is a relatively sought-after city-series commemorative decanter.

3. 1965 Green Floral Decanter

• Design: Green ceramic bottle with stylized white dogwood flowers and heavy texturing.
• Markings: “Creation of James B. Beam… Regal China 1965”
• Condition: Good to Very Good (minor wear visible).
• Value Estimate: $20–$35

4. 1961 Light Blue Greek Philosopher Decanter

• Design: Light blue milk glass-style bottle with white classical imagery of Socrates & Aristotle.
• Notes: One of the earliest Jim Beam decanters using milk glass coloration.
• Condition: Excellent (strong paint, stopper present).
• Value Estimate: $40–$60
  Considered more collectible due to early production and classical motif.

5. 1979 French Desk Telephone Decanter (1928-style)

• Design: Porcelain decanter modeled after a 1928 French telephone.
• Notes: Part of the Beam telephone series.
• Condition: Good (design intact, stopper not shown).
• Value Estimate: $20–$35

📜 Authentication

All pieces appear to be authentic Jim Beam decanters manufactured by Regal China between 1961–1979. The embossed bases, foil labels, and ceramic stoppers match known examples from collector databases and auction listings. No reproductions or fakes noted.

💵 Total Set Value (Retail Estimate)

Condition

Value Range

Retail (individual sales)

$135–$215

Estate/Lot Sale

$100–$150

• For maximum return, selling individually on eBay or through vintage collector groups is advisable.
• As a full lot, value drops due to shipping and bundled pricing effects.

🧠 Collector Notes

• Jim Beam decanters have a large collector base, but values vary by theme, rarity, and condition.
• Decanters tied to specific commemorations (like the Lombard Centennial) tend to fetch more.
• Original stoppers and intact foil labels significantly boost value.
• Avoid removing corks frequently—dry corks are fragile.

🛠️ Recommendation

If you're considering selling, I recommend:

1. Photographing each decanter individually with front, back, base, and stopper.
2. Listing on collector forums or eBay under "Jim Beam Regal China Decanter" with year/theme.
3. Contacting a professional appraiser if you plan to insure or formally value a larger collection (10+ decanters).