Beswick/Royal Albert Figurines: Beatrix Potter Collectables
I love collecting things, especially figurines, which makes my home look interesting or somewhat cluttered, depending on your viewpoint.
Explore some of the Beswick Beatrix Potter figurines in my collection, and learn about backstamps and the life and books of Beatrix Potter.
These collectable Beswick storybook figurines make for very popular presents not only for children but for collectors as well. The Beatrix Potter china ornaments are beautifully crafted by artists—Graham Orwell, Alan Maslankowski, Ted Chawner, David Lyttleton, Arthur Gredington, Graham Tongue, Amanda Hughes-Lubeck and Albert Hallam.
This article showcases my large collection of Beswick/Royal Albert figurines in the Beatrix Potter Peter Rabbit series. In addition to photographs and descriptions of the models I own, I will tell you a little about Beatrix Potter herself and how she came to write the Peter Rabbit series—along with her rapid rise to fame. I will also tell you a little about the Beswick designers and the important significance of Beswick backstamps.
How I Started Collecting Beatrix Potter Figures
My lifelong affection for Beatrix Potter figures began when I was given a Beswick figurine, Jeremy Fisher, for my birthday sixty years ago. Appealing, lovable, and faintly repellent, he travelled the world with me, a significant reminder of my childhood. This little figure lasted until I had children of my own, and eventually—after losing one hand, which was reverently glued back somewhat amateurishly—he broke and was regretfully consigned to the dustbin.
Over the years, I have gathered quite a large collection of Beswick figurines, which I now plan to sell, although I will keep one or two of my favourites.
Some Figurines in My Collection
- Tommy Brock BP 3a
- Mr Benjamin Bunny and Peter Rabbit BP 3c
- Susan BP3b
- Mr Tod BP6a
- Appley Dapply BP2a
- Tailor of Gloucester BP2a
- Foxy Whiskered Gentleman BP-2a
- Mr Benjamin Bunny BP 2a Gold
- Pig-Wig BP 3b
- Sir Isaac Newton BP3b
- Benjamin Wakes Up BP 6a
Tommy Brock BP 3a: Standard and Very Rare Versions
In the photo above, the figurine on the left is the standard Beswick Beatrix Potter Tommy Brock BP 3a circa 1970–1974 (showing the spade handle and small eye patches). It has a blue-grey jacket, pink waistcoat and yellow trousers.
The figurine on the right is the very rare and valuable Beswick Beatrix Potter Tommy Brock in the second version, second variation (a hidden spade handle and small eye patches)—it has a rare BP 3a backstamp, only produced for one year, about 1974.
- Modeller: Graham Orwell
- Height: 3.5", 8.9 cm
- Issued: 1970–1974
Mr Benjamin Bunny and Peter Rabbit BP 3c
Mr Benjamin Bunny is seen here smacking Peter Rabbit's bottom in this scene from The Tale of Benjamin Bunny.
- Modeller: Alan Maslankowski
- Height: 4", 10.1 cm
- Issued: 1975–1995
Susan BP3b
This figure appears to have a very rare backstamp: "Frederick Warne plc 1983" (as opposed to Frederick Warne & Co), which is not even mentioned in Beswick's Collectables, although I have seen it elsewhere on the internet. A rare backstamp would increase the value considerably.
- Modeller: David Lyttleton
- Height: 4"
- Issued: 1983
Mr Tod BP6a
- Modeller: Ted Chawner
- Height: 4.75", 12.1 cm
- Issued: 1988–1993
Appley Dapply BP2a
This Beswick Beatrix Potter Appley Dapply BP2a figurine goes for about £150.
- Modeller: Albert Hallam
- Issued: 1971–1975
Tailor of Gloucester BP2a
Tailor of Gloucester is one of the less valuable Beswick figurines, so it would make a good starter to a collection. This figure depicts a brown mouse on a yellow bobbin of red thread.
- Modeller: Arthur Gredington
- Height: 3.5"
Foxy Whiskered Gentleman BP-2a
Foxy Whiskered Gentleman was issued between 1954–2002. However, the backstamp on the figurine in the photograph indicates that it was actually issued between 1955–1975, so it is a very early version.
In this particular version, Foxy Whiskered Gentleman is wearing a pale green jacket and trousers and a pink waistcoat. Sadly, he has a chipped ear, waistcoat and backstamp.
- Height: 4.75", 12.1 cm
- Issued: 1955–1975; 1954–2002
Mr Benjamin Bunny BP 2a Gold
The Mr Benjamin Bunny figure shown here is the earlier version issued between 1965 and 1974, which has his pipe out. There is an extremely rare earlier version with Mr Benjamin Bunny wearing a lilac jacket as opposed to the maroon jacket.
In the later versions, issued between 1970 and 2002, his pipe is in. There are numerous different backstamps, and the later issues are, on the whole, a lot less valuable.
- Modeller: Arthur Gredington
- Height: 4.25", 10.8 cm
- Issued: 1965–1974; 1970–2002
Pig-Wig BP 3b
There were two colour variations for Pig-Wig:
- Version 1 is extremely rare—so rare, in fact, that the standard reference book, Beswick Collectables, does not even list the price. The version 1 Pig-Wig is a grey pig in a pale blue dress.
- In version 2, the one shown above, she is a black pig in a deep blue dress.
- Modeller: Albert Hallam
- Height: 4"
- Issued: 1972–1982
Sir Isaac Newton BP3b
Sir Isaac Newton is my favourite Beatrix Potter Figurine—don't ask me why; I just love him! This is one of the only figures with a backstamp using the words "Made in England" as opposed to the usual "England".
The colour and size of Sir Isaac Newton figurines may vary. He wears a pale green jacket and a yellow waistcoat with tan markings.
- Modeller: Graham Tongue
- Height: 3.75", 9.5 cm
- Issued: 1955–1972
Benjamin Wakes Up BP 6a
Benjamin Wakes Up is not a very valuable figurine, but he's quite cute.
- Modeller: Amanda Hughes-Lubeck
- Height: 2.25", 5.7 cm
- Issued: 1991–1997
This is what a backstamp looks like on a Beswick figure.
What Are Backstamps?
Backstamps are used by manufacturers to identify their work and are generally found on the underside of the figurine. They normally include the name of the manufacturer and, in the case of Beswick, there were many variations which could be used to deduce the model and date of issue. Some people collect rare backstamps, rather than the figurines they identify, and backstamps can considerably increase the value of an item if they are very rare.
Beswick, Royal Albert and Royal Doulton Beatrix Potter Backstamps
The following information will assist you when you are building your collection of Beswick, Royal Albert and Royal Doulton Beatrix Potter figurines. There were 25 different backstamp variations used in total:
| Backstamp | Description | Date Issued |
|---|---|---|
BP1a Beswick Gold Circle | Beswick England written in a Circle | 1948–1954 |
BP1b Beswick Gold Parallel Lines | Beswick England written in parallel lines used on a very limited amount of figures | 1949–1954 |
BP2 Beswick Gold Oval | Beswick England written in an Oval shape | 1955–1972 |
BP2b Beswick Transitional | Part Gold Script backstamp as on the BP2 and part BP3b backstamp | 1971–1972 |
BP3a Beswick | Brown writing with no date stamp | 1973–1974 |
BP3b Beswick | Brown writing Potter's with an "s" and the copyright date | 1974–1985 |
BP3c Beswick | Brown writing Potter with no 's with the added Licensed By Copyrights and the copyright date | 1985–1988 |
BP4 Beswick Doulton | Similar to the BP3c stamp but with the John Beswick Signature and the added Studio of Royal Doulton | 1988–1989 |
BP5 Royal Albert Gold Crown | Gold stamp to mark the changeover to the Royal Albert Label, only used on six Character Figurines | 1989 |
BP6a Royal Albert Small Crown | Brown stamp used on the smaller figures | 1989–1998 |
BP6b Royal Albert Large Crown | Brown stamp used on the larger size figures | 1993–1998 |
BP7 Beswick Doulton | 100 in an Oval shape with the writing Peter Rabbit 1893–1993 F.Warne & Co used to mark the 100th Anniversary of Peter Rabbit | 1993 |
BP8a Beswick Doulton | Brown Script Beswick Ware found on only two figures: Jemima & Her Ducklings and Mrs Tiggy-Winkle Washing | 1998 |
BP8b Beswick Doulton | Brown Script Beswick Ware marked 1947–1997 used to mark the 50th year of production of Beswick Beatrix Potter figurines | 1997 |
BP8c Beswick Doulton | Brown Script Beswick Ware used on Limited Edition figurines with the added Limited Edition numbers only used on three Tableaus | 1998–2000 |
BP9a Beswick Doulton | Gold Script Beswick Ware marked with Beswick Centenary 1894–1994 marking the 100th Anniversary of the Beswick company only used on Jemima Puddle-Duck | 1994 |
BP9b Beswick Doulton | Gold Script Beswick Ware used on six figurines painted with Gold Highlights | 1997–1998 |
BP9c Beswick Doulton | Gold Script Beswick Ware used on Limited Edition figures with the added Limited Edition numbers | 1997–2000 |
BP9d Beswick Doulton | Gold Script Beswick Ware used on Limited Edition figures with the addition of the Peter Rabbit and Friends logo | 1997–2000 |
BP10a Beswick Doulton | Beswick "B" Black Crest stamp | 1998–2002 |
BP10b Beswick Doulton | Black stamp Beswick written arched over Made In England | 1998–2002 |
BP10c Beswick Doulton | A variation of BP10b but all writing is curved around the figures circular base | 1998–2002 |
BP10d Beswick Doulton | Beswick "B" Gold Crest Special Gold Edition with the Peter Rabbit and Friends logo only used on Sweet Peter Rabbit | 1999 |
BP11a Beswick Doulton | Circular stamp with the John Beswick Signature and the "P" reference number of the figure produced on nine Gloss Finish figures and six Satin Glaze Finish figures | 2001–2002 |
BP11b Beswick Doulton | Circular stamp same as BP11a but on marked Limited Edition figures | 2001–2002 |
Original illustration for "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" by Beatrix Potter.
© Frederick Warne & Co. 2006
Who Was Beatrix Potter?
Early Life
Helen Beatrix Potter (1866–1943) was born into a wealthy upper-middle-class Victorian family who had inherited money from the cotton trade. Her father, a barrister, was keen on art and photography, and her parents mixed socially with writers, artists and politicians. They were too busy to spend much time with Beatrix, and she was educated at home by a governess. Her younger brother, Bertram, was a close companion, but as he attended boarding school, she was quite a lonely child.
Her father encouraged her artistic talent, and she and her brother spent much time observing and sketching the numerous pets in their household and a variety of wildlife. Beatrix and Bertram kept many animals in their schoolroom, including mice, birds, frogs, lizards, snakes and a bat. Beatrix Potter's pets were often subjects for sketches and paintings and were later to inspire the much-loved characters in her books.
Professional Life
In her 20s, Beatrix became a keen naturalist who studied and drew plants and animals at museums, examining them under the microscope and writing about them. She was a gifted natural scientist and botanical illustrator and presented a botanical paper on Funghi to the Linnean Society. Later, she became a farmer, sheep-breeder and conservationist.
Original illustration for "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" by Beatrix Potter. This was her first book, and its popularity encouraged Potter to go on to write more; she became very wealthy.
Publication
The Tale of Peter Rabbit grew from some of her letters to the children of her former governess which she had illustrated seven years previously in 1893. After six rejections from publishers, she decided to publish the book herself in 1901; on the strength of that, it was then taken on by the publisher Frederick Warne.
The Tale of Peter Rabbit was published by Frederick Warne & Co. in 1902 with an initial 8,000 copies printed, and the tale has never been out of print since. Beatrix Potter went on to publish another 22 little books over the next 28 years.
Later Life
Potter's editor, Norman Warne, fell in love and proposed to her but, sadly, he died in 1905 before they could marry. Her books were very successful, and the income enabled her to buy farming land in the Lake District. There she met a local solicitor, William Heelis, who became her husband in 1913. As well as sheep farming, she developed a keen interest in conservation after becoming friendly with a founding member of the National Trust, and in her will, she left the Trust 14 farms and over 4,000 acres.
Legacy
Beatrix Potter is still one of the world's best-selling and best-loved children's authors. She wrote and illustrated a total of 28 books, including the 23 tales which have been translated into more than 35 languages and sold over 100 million copies.
| Year | Peter Rabbit Book or Other Tale |
|---|---|
1902 | The Tale of Peter Rabbit |
1903 | The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin |
1903 | The Tailor of Gloucester |
1904 | The Tale of Benjamin Bunny |
1904 | The Tale of Two Bad Mice |
1905 | The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle |
1905 | The Tale of the Pie and the Patty-Pan |
1906 | The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher |
1906 | The Story of a Fierce Bad Rabbit |
1906 | The Story of Miss Moppet |
1907 | The Tale of Tom Kitten |
1908 | The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck |
1908 | The Tale of Samuel Whisker or The Roly-Poly Pudding |
1909 | The Tale of the Flopsy Bunnies |
1909 | The Tale of Ginger and Pickles |
1910 | The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse |
1911 | The Tale of Timmy Tiptoes |
1912 | The Tale of Mr. Tod |
1913 | The Tale of Pigling Bland |
1917 | Appley Dapply's Nursery Rhymes |
1918 | The Tale of Johnny Town-Mouse |
1922 | Cecily Parsley's Nursery Rhymes |
1930 | The Tale of Little Pig Robinson |
The Tale of Peter Rabbit
More Beswick Collectables
- Collectible Beswick Figurines: Alice in Wonderland Series
This article contains information and photographs on the Beswick series of Alice in Wonderland figurines and the designers. They are very collectable little ceramic figurines that make great presents too, as they are relatively inexpensive.
Questions & Answers
Question: My mother collected Beatrix Potter figurines, and we have several that are signed. Where would be the best source for selling her collection?
Answer: I have only ever sold Beatrix Potter figurines on eBay. When I have checked the selling prices at local auction sales, they seem to be quite a lot lower than eBay.
Question: I have two Beatrix Potter figurines. Pigling Bland and Little Pig Robinson. I believe both are BP2 stamp. Pigling has a number 4 on it and the other a number 34. I wasn’t sure what these referred to. What could these numbers on my Beatrix Potter figurines mean?
Answer: I have spent quite a long time checking my reference book carefully, but have been unable to find out what these numbers represent even though many of the backstamps have what looks like hand-written numbers on them.
Question: I have a Sir Isaac Newton with the number 37 on the bottom and no other stamp. I am not sure where to go to get further information on it. Can you help?
Answer: If it only has a number 37 on it and no other wording, for example, the manufacturer "Beswick" or "Made in Britain," I doubt whether it is a genuine Beswick figurine although it could still be a Beatrix Potter figurine, just not made by any famous manufacturer, in which case, I'd have no idea how it would be valued.
I'm sorry that I don't know where else you would get further information, apart from the internet. I have a reference book called "Beswick Collectables" (9th Edition), published in 2005 from which I get my information, but there is no recent edition that I know of, and this book does not mention a figurine numbered 37
Question: I have a Benjamin Bunny Figurine with a copyright date of 1948 but the name stamped on it is "Jemima Puddle Duck", would this make it a rare piece?
Answer: Yes, I think this would make it a very rare piece, as it could only have happened to a very limited number of figurines.
Question: I have a Cottontail figurine that has the backstamp "Frederick Warne P.L.C. 1985." What does the "P.L.C" mean?
Answer: "P.L.C." means "Public Limited Company."
© 2010 Diana Grant
Do Leave Your Comments Here—Are You a Collector? It's Nice to Know Who Dropped By!
april on February 02, 2020:
been a serious collector for over 25 years now, goal is to have one of each style of figurine. by beswick & royal albert. half way there over 100 figurines & still counting ;) little enjoyment to myself are these wonderful knick knacks .
Carol on January 28, 2020:
I love all of the characters and I would love to have them.all.
Mary K Gordon on January 03, 2020:
I never cease to be amazed by the wonderful artisans who lifted these figurines from a 2 dimensional image and made them 3 dimensional. the painting is lovely and the expressions are terrific. I have an almost complete collection thanks to the internet.
I was unprepared to post anything and only joined only to write this post. Bless you for taking the time to share your wisdom, and bless Beatrix Potter for giving us these delightful stories and for being a original conservationist and land donor to the British Trust!
DreamerMeg from Northern Ireland on October 29, 2019:
I like the Beatrix Potter tales, though it did take me a while to cotton on to them. I never heard them as a child but now I enjoy them, even several times over! The figures look really good.
RoadMonkey on May 28, 2019:
What a great hub. I have read the Beatrix Potter tales to my grandchildren but I never knew about the figurines. Not that I would be buying them. They are not my cup of tea, too many to dust! LOL
Rose Jones on May 28, 2019:
Reviewed this again after a few years, it brought me back to when my son studied Potter in grade school and would carry the plush around. What a marvelous life she had - and how much did she contribute!
Linda on February 22, 2019:
I have a “Cottontail” figurine with a backstamp that says Frederick Warne P.LC 1985 what does PLC mean? Also it has a manufacturers defect on the face, does that affect value? Thank you!
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on September 01, 2018:
The book is Beswick Collectables - by Diana & John Callow & Frank Corley published by The Charlton Press.
I have the 9th Edition 2005 and this is what the publishers say about the most recent edition:
"A new edition, the 10th, was released December 7th, 2008 in North America, and will be released January 2nd, 2009 in the United Kingdom. This 352-page book brings the collector current to 2009. The 9th edition was published three years ago, it was time for a revision as the market has changed completely. .... Starting with the 9th edition in 2005, we divided Royal Doulton Beswick Storybook Figurines into two books, based on the brands: Royal Doulton and Beswick. Our simple reasoning for this division was the sale of the Beswick brand by Royal Doulton
Christina O'Neill on August 28, 2018:
Hello! I have a collection of about 65 Beatrix Potter figurines I also collected throughout my childhood. Unlike you, I cannot remember when I received my first one, but I know I received my last one after high school. Also like you, my kids now love to play with my "Potter glassies" as they call them. Very carefully and according to my rules. I still have them displayed in my house. I just adore them. I have looked for a collectors book, etc. with all the kinds of information you have posted above. Do you mind my asking where you got all the information from? I would really love a good collectors resource. THings like which of mine are second versions, markings, etc. I just don't know enough about my own collection and that makes me disheartened. I adore them too much and would love to have some valuable information to pass on with them in the future. Any guidance in the right direction would be so helpful. Thank you for this post! I've seen some posts on other blogs but the comments got a little snarky and disrepectful and I didn't even want to attempt to seek out information there. Thanks again!
Marti on December 06, 2015:
I have a Beatrix Potter Cottontail figurine with Frederick Warne PLC on the bottom. Is it valuable and if so, why? Thank you. Enjoy your articles.
kelly on September 15, 2014:
hi i have a small figure of of peter and the only hallmark is a number 4 ? how can i find more out (age)
November65 on March 21, 2014:
My parents bought me a few Beatrix Potter books...I loved them. When my second child was born Momma gave a nice book collection to our son Patrick.I enjoyed reading them to him as much, maybe more, as he did listening for his bedtime stories. I have them in storage for his children...if he gives me any Grandchildren that is! I saw some beautiful figurines in our local jewelry shop window, I didn't dare look at the price of the figures...but I may stop by today and have a look. The characters are so sweet that it brings happy tears to my eyes thinking of them. I enjoyed looking at your collection.
Many Blessings to you and yours,
Barbara Walton from France on June 24, 2013:
Beatrix Potter is such a fascinating person. I love her books and all the characters and I very much enjoyed seeing your own collection.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on June 05, 2013:
@Gypzeerose: My cat knocked over a little showcase box with 3 of them displayed in it a few weeks ago. I couldn't bear to check them out for a couple of days, but when I did, with some trepidation, it was good news, and nothing broken. I displayed them more carefully after that.
Rose Jones on June 05, 2013:
Wow, you obviously are the go to person about these figurines. Beatrix Potter was an amazing lady, I absolutely can understand why you got so interested in her. When my son was in fourth grade his teacher would bring the plush toys to school and have the kids hold them while she read the books to them. I love the Sir Isaac Newton as well; my ex-husband published an article in the journal he started: I wonder if I have enough forgiveness to give him the figurine. :) My son Ben definitely needs that sleepy bunny. Pinned to my collectibles board - you have done an excellent job here.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on January 25, 2013:
@anonymous: That's nice to hear - thanks!
anonymous on January 23, 2013:
Lovely lens, you did a great job, squidliked, G+1 and Pinned.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on October 28, 2012:
@RhondaAlbom: Thank you so much
Rhonda Albom from New Zealand on October 28, 2012:
Beautiful collection. I really like your side by side comparison showing the rare piece. Blessed.
anonymous on September 28, 2012:
thank you for the wonderful information about the few figurines I have that were given to me in my childhood. Tommy Brock survived in tact, the rest suffer my own repairs... thank you again, delightful read
piedromolinero on September 11, 2012:
These are beautiful figurines that make perfect collectibles.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on September 03, 2012:
@anonymous: Sadly, no, I haven't
anonymous on September 03, 2012:
Hi! You sound delightful! I am not really a collector but I am looking for the figurine "Foxy Reading Country News". I am collecting a few figures to decorate at a baby shower. I just like that Foxy is reading. I am a reader. Budget for this little event is of course limited. Seen any reasonable Foxy Reading figures?
Connie
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on July 02, 2012:
@anonymous: My Beswick Collectables reference book is a bit out of date, as I am not sure how the recession has affected values. It might be worth your while looking on the internet to see what prices have been achieved for your particular figurines recently. On eBay you can do a search for your specific items and then narrow the search within eBay by looking for auctions which have ended. Then you would be able to find out what they fetched in an auction if they sold. This is not necessarily the same as what they are worth, but it will give you some guidance
anonymous on July 02, 2012:
I have 7 figurines that my granfather bought for me in 1966 are these worth anything? peter rabbit flopsy Mr Fox etc they all have the curved stamp in gold on the bottom
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on June 20, 2012:
@anonymous: You could try selling them on eBay. I don't know anyone personally who is looking to buy.
anonymous on June 19, 2012:
i have in my possession around 15 various peter rabbit royal doulton & royal albert figurines and cups and saucers along with a wedgewood piece which i looking to sell, do you know anyone who would be interested? all pieces are in mint condition( no chips or cracks)
dream1983 on June 10, 2012:
Fantastic lens, thank you for sharing!
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on May 21, 2012:
@anonymous: In my research I have not come across a white umbrella - pale green, yes. If it has a gold handle, it is a later version issued in 1998, limited edition of 1947, BP-9c and sold as a pair with Foxy Whiskered Gentleman. It is not as high-value as the older versions - about £60
anonymous on May 19, 2012:
I have a mrs rabbit statue, normally I know that the umbrella she holds is green, mine however is white, does that make her rare. I haven't bee able to find out any information about this, I'd appreciate your advice if possible.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on April 27, 2012:
@anonymous: I don't know where you would get these. As far as I am aware, they are not normally sold together, so I don't know whether it was a special issue, or how common this would be. I have never heard of it......beware of imitations!
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on April 27, 2012:
@anonymous: The only indication I can give you is that one dated slightly earlier was being offered for sale at £17 and another similar item for about £8, but I don't know whether yours would be worth more because it is in its mailing carton, or about the same.
anonymous on April 27, 2012:
I have received a "The Original Peter Rabbit Calendar 1995" I cannot find it on the internet. I find 2011 and one 1993 but no 1995. this is new still in the mailing carton Do you have any suggestions of what it might be worth. thank you
anonymous on April 12, 2012:
I recently acquired a set of both little books and figurines. Do these usually come like this? I find it easy to find little figurines but not the little books to go with. Where could I find both? as a side note, of course the most notable were missing!!LOL
TTMall on March 23, 2012:
Beautiful and informative lens. Thanks for sharing.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on March 22, 2012:
This is likely to be the BP-6a version and is worth about $45 or £30
anonymous on March 22, 2012:
Hello Diana. My daughter was about to throughout a MY BEnjamin eating lettuce figurine. It has a Royal Albert inscription on the base with copyright 1992. Would this be of any value to anyone?
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on March 20, 2012:
@anonymous: Yes, it does appear to be the valuable one
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on March 20, 2012:
@anonymous: BP-1 has a gold circle, the name of the character in italics and an apostrophe s after the words Beatrix Potter. That would be Peter Rabbit first version, first variation with backstamps issued between 1948 and 1954.
BP-2a was a gold oval, and the name of the character does not appear to me to be in italics. There is an apostrophe s as above. It was issued between 1955 and 1972 and would also be for Peter Rabbit first version, first variation.
As you state that your figurine's backstamp has an oval stamp AND italics, it is not possible for me to say which version the backstamp is, as it seems to fall between the two. I checked my Beswick reference book, and can't give you any better information than this.
anonymous on March 20, 2012:
I have a question... the backstamp on my PETER RABBIT IS IN ITALICS WITH THE GOLD OVAL BESWICK ENGLAND AND AN APOSTROPHE S.. . I can't find an answer on this one.
anonymous on March 10, 2012:
I am a collector and am thinking of selling some of them. I have 69. I have been researching the various backstamps and find it very confusing. I noticed your description of the backstamp for "SUSAN"..Mine does have the Frederick Warne P.L.C. 1983. Is this the valuable one?
anonymous on February 18, 2012:
The figures are so cute, a collectors items for sure.
Nancy Carol Brown Hardin from Las Vegas, NV on February 17, 2012:
I adored the story of Peter Rabbit and Nutkin the Squirrel when I was a child. They were a couple of my favorite books that I remember my Dad reading to me until I began reading them to him! Thanks for sharing, this brought back some memories.
KimGiancaterino on February 07, 2012:
These are beautiful figurines.
Treasures By Brenda from Canada on January 07, 2012:
Nice collection of Beswick!
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on January 02, 2012:
@anonymous: If you go to My Bio on the top right hand side of this web page, you can send me a personal email, and we can then communicate more directly.
anonymous on January 02, 2012:
@Gloriousconfusion: Thankyou for replying I have no room for this collection and don't know much about them in my description I should have said Beatrix Potter,Beswick,Royal Albert and some Bunnykins which are not Beswick Collectables I have a lot to learn which is why I am looking on the Internet.
Patricia Smith
Odille Rault from Gloucester on November 30, 2011:
I don't remember much Beatrix Potter from when I was a child, but have enjoyed her work as an adult. Lovely selection of figurines here. Blessed. :)
WriterJanis2 on November 24, 2011:
Adrable figurines.
Sandy Mertens from Frozen Tundra on November 07, 2011:
Blessed! Please add this to the non-Zazzle plexo on my Zazzle and Blessings for November 2011 lens.
fugeecat lm on October 05, 2011:
i love these figurines. my mom gave them to me as presents when i was growing up. i always got one for my birthday and one for christmas.
sarita from Hisar on September 26, 2011:
figures are awesome.. keep it up..
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on September 08, 2011:
@anonymous: You would need to find a specialist auction house by looking them up on the internet. If you put them into just any old auction, people are not there for these specialist collectibles, and you won't get a good price. I have not come across Royal Albert Bunnykins figurines in my Beswick Collectibles reference book so your question is outside my area of knowledge.
anonymous on September 08, 2011:
I have just inherited over 100 Beswick R Albert Bunnykins pristine condition in a will I would like to sell them but not on e-bay could you advise some are gold stamped.
trix pooter
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on August 22, 2011:
@anonymous: You need to study and analyse the backstamp - you'd need to have a reference book to do this - any slight variation in backstamp would mean a different version. If you want me to look it up for you, please contact me via my bio page, and send me a photo of the backstamp - I would be happy to check it for you, but as it is extremely rare, my book (9th Ed. of Beswick Collectables)has not listed an auction value for it at all, which means that at the time of publication, they had not found one which had been sold. There is a later version of the book which might have up-to-date information about this model.
anonymous on August 21, 2011:
I have a Rabbit.Looked it up and said it's Johnny Town Mouse.Saw two.One is very rare.How do I determine which figurine I have?
sirama7262@aol.com
LeopoldBlatt on August 21, 2011:
Great. I loved the very foxy fox Mr. Tod with only one D. Great presentation!
greetingcardsinfo on June 30, 2011:
Another good quality lens really lovely items.
MagnoliaTree on May 31, 2011:
I love Beatrix Potter drawings-- thanks for sharing this info about the figurines!
anonymous on March 30, 2011:
A wonderful collect your have here. Beatrix Potter was an amazing writer that most kids grew up with.
anonymous on March 29, 2011:
Nice Squidoo. I really enjoy reading what you wrote about. Chris
anonymous on March 23, 2011:
The figurines are beautiful. I love the first one - the frog. Wonderful lens :)
Mona from Iowa on March 07, 2011:
I had already been here and liked this page but have now lensrolled to my Beatrix Potter cross stitch page. :)
bobtyndall on February 03, 2011:
Thank you for featuring my lens, Beatrix Potter Collectible Peter Rabbit. I have lensrolled this lens to mine.
TheresaMarkham on February 03, 2011:
Love all of your Beatrix Potter figurine photos! Makes me smile just looking at them!
Blackspaniel1 on January 31, 2011:
Nice lens
jennikitten lm on January 18, 2011:
Excellent lens, I love the books when I was younger.
anonymous on December 14, 2010:
To answer your questions, (a)Yes I do collect things but not drawing and figurines, (b) now that I seen a Beatrix Potter drawings and figurines, I like them and (c) no I can't bear to part with my collections unless the money is excellent! Thanks for introducing me to Beatrix Potter
Cynthia Arre from Quezon City on November 29, 2010:
Awesome collection of Beatrix Potter figurines! If I were you I would have such a hard time parting with them. This lens is an excellent resource on the great Ms. Potter's art. ~Blessed~
GrowWear on November 10, 2010:
An interesting resource. Love Beatrix Potter's art.
Lisa Auch from Scotland on November 03, 2010:
Aren't these just gorgeous, I loved reading beatrix Potter, and I feel these figurines capture the stories magnificantly. Blessed By An Angel
Cynthia Sylvestermouse from United States on October 16, 2010:
I have always loved Beatrix Potter and these figurines are beautiful! Totally awesome!
RebeccaE on October 12, 2010:
love this page, great wrok and the figurines are all tasteful and seem lifelike.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on September 13, 2010:
@Mihaela Vrban: Thanks for your nice comments, and thank you Jennifer Earnshaw too.
Mihaela Vrban from Croatia on September 13, 2010:
Love this page! And I love how you included facts, story and timeline along with figurines! It flows great and adds to the value of these charming pieces! :)
anonymous on August 30, 2010:
Hi, very interesting site and good to see what all the back stamps are. I love my collection, mainly the mice as have Brambly Hedge as well as Beswick.
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on August 27, 2010:
It sounds like BP 10b, but you haven't said whether it is big or small, and I would want to see a photograph of the backstamp to even venture a guess.
Has anyone else any ideas about this?
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on August 27, 2010:
@anonymous: Would you like to contact me via my contact info in My Bio?
anonymous on August 26, 2010:
I have Peter Rabbit with a black stamp 90. Hoping someone could tell me the value.
anonymous on August 11, 2010:
I have twenty BP2 figurines for sale, would you be interested?
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on July 20, 2010:
@anonymous: Thank you, I really appreciate that
anonymous on July 05, 2010:
Wonderful lens on a great subject. I love Royal Albert pottery and these pieces make it shine in glory. *-*Blessed*-* and featured on Sprinkled with Stardust/craft
Diana Grant (author) from United Kingdom on July 04, 2010:
@anonymous: Hi Angela, when you said PB-2a, I thought it wa a new backstamp that I did not know about, but of course you actually had the letters transposed - should be BP not PB!
I'm not an expert, just a keen hobbyist. According to my research, BP-2a backstamp is gold oval. As yours is brown (you didn't state whether it is oval or straight line), I am almost certain it is a BP-3b, but I would not be sure without actually seeing a photograph of it.If you want to send me a picture, by email, I will do some more research.
anonymous on July 03, 2010:
Hello! You note that the foxy whiskered gentleman is PB-2a, but when I look at your backstamp variation list, there is not mention of what at PB-2a looks like. I own a foxy whiskered gentleman with brown writing, "s" at the end of Potter's and F. Warne & Co. Ltd. copyright symbol 1954 Beswick England. Is this a PB-2a?
norma-holt on May 10, 2010:
Great lens and wonderful history of these pieces which makes it a very unique topic. Blessed and featured on Sprinkled with Stardust
anonymous on May 04, 2010:
This is a beautiful collection. Great lens!
jolou on April 25, 2010:
I love china and collectables. I have a few hummel and royal dalton. Great lens.
Carol Fisher from Warminster, Wiltshire, UK on April 23, 2010:
They're not only adorable but very collectable too. Lovely lens.
Michelle Lacroix Toro from United States on April 22, 2010:
Wonderful site! I enjoyed reading your information on these figurines.
Mona from Iowa on April 20, 2010:
What a lovely lens. As Rachel said thanks for sharing. :)
Rachel Field on April 19, 2010:
They're adorable! Thank you for sharing them with us :)
