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The world of collecting vintage and antique Americana is a niche but passionate community, and few collectors were as renowned as Patti and Rex Stark. The Starks, particularly Rex, were celebrated for their impressive collection of ceramic Americana, which included rare and unique pieces that had never before been auctioned. Hake’s Auctions, a respected WorthPoint Industry Partner, recently took on the remarkable task of auctioning the Starks’ collection, offering collectors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire some of these treasured items.
Rex Stark was a well-known figure in the vintage and antique community, particularly for his expertise in Anglo-American ceramics and political collectibles. He first caught the attention of Hake’s staff at an American Political Items Collectors show in Columbus, Ohio. Scott R. Mussell, Americana Director for Hake’s, described Rex’s collection as “the finest this side of the Atlantic and perhaps the finest featuring American figures.” Rex was not only a collector but also an educator, sharing the history behind the ceramics and political memorabilia he acquired. His reputation for owning high-quality, hard-to-find items made his collection highly anticipated among collectors.
One of the standout items in the auction is an early promotional coin bank tied to a political figure. This pottery bank, crafted in the shape of a log cabin with a barrel of hard cider on the roof, dates back to the 1840 presidential campaign of William Henry Harrison. The design was inspired by an editorialist named John de Ziska, who called for Harrison, then 67 years old, to retire from politics and spend his remaining days in a log cabin drinking cider. Instead of shying away from the criticism, Harrison’s campaign embraced the imagery, turning it into a symbol of simplicity and humility. The log cabin and hard cider became iconic motifs of the campaign, and this pottery bank is one of the earliest examples of promotional political memorabilia. The bank being auctioned is in excellent condition, making it a highly sought-after piece.
The Starks’ collection, now live online at Hake’s Auctions, includes hundreds of rare Americana and political items. These pieces not only highlight significant moments in American history but also showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of the time. The auction is a testament to Rex Stark’s legacy as a pioneer in collecting, preserving, and sharing these cultural artifacts.
The appeal of the Starks’ collection lies in its rarity and historical significance. Collectors of Americana and political memorabilia are drawn to items that tell a story, and the pieces in this auction do just that. From the log cabin pottery bank to other unique ceramics, each item offers a glimpse into America’s past and the cultural movements that shaped it.
Rex Stark’s dedication to collecting and educating others about these pieces has left a lasting impact on the vintage and antique community. His passion for preserving history through objects has inspired many collectors to appreciate the artistry and stories behind the items they acquire. The auction of his and Patti’s collection is not only a celebration of their contributions to the world of collecting but also an opportunity for new generations to continue preserving and valuing these artifacts.
In a world where so much of history is recorded digitally, the tangible nature of these ceramics and memorabilia offers a unique connection to the past. For collectors, the chance to own a piece of the Starks’ collection is a chance to own a piece of history. Whether it’s the log cabin bank from Harrison’s campaign or another rare find, each item tells a story that transcends time.
As Brenda Kelley Kim, a Boston-based author and columnist, notes, collecting is about more than just acquiring objects—it’s about discovering, valuing, and preserving history. The Starks’ auction at Hake’s is a perfect embodiment of this ethos, offering collectors the opportunity to continue the legacy of appreciating and safeguarding these cultural treasures.
The auction is sure to draw attention from collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, eager to own a piece of the Starks’ remarkable collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of Americana, this auction is a chance to connect with history and celebrate the passion and dedication of Patti and Rex Stark.
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