Question:
I have some dinnerware pieces in the "Ebbtide" pattern purchased at the factory gift shop, and would like to know about the pattern, when it was made, and current value. I'm not sure how many pieces there are as I'm still unpacking boxes. Appreciate any information you can send me. Thank you, Darlene

Answer: Ebb Tide was introduced in mid-1965 and was made for only a couple of years before Red Wing Potteries closed in 1967. Ebb Tide is a rather odd pattern because no pitchers, teapot, coffee server or salt & pepper shakers were made. These are items that appeal to many collectors, so the lack of them reduces interest. Another oddity is that two styles of coffee cup were available, one with or without a handle. The Ebb Tide pattern consists of hand applied greenish-brown swirls against a dark background. Workers apparently found it difficult to be consistent in applying the swirls because the effect can vary greatly piece to piece. Because of the short production life Ebb Tide does hold some interest for collectors but the value is not particularly high.

Larry