This 378 page catalogue was a wealth of information for me. I've always been drawn to Wade pieces -- cookie jars, premiums, and banks, but I had no idea how many different pieces they are responsible for making. For instance, although I've seen lots of little Wade pieces around at flea markets, I soon found out that Wade started making these Whimsies after World War II when there was need to keep employees busy. Although these were made for children, they soon became very collectible.

The catalogue has hundreds of black and white, very clear pictures starting with Cheerful Charlie and Doleful Dan from 1948 to Toad of Toad Hill, 2000. Each piece is shown along with a complete description including backstamp, size and colors. Prices are given in three different currencies -- U.S., Canada, and U.K. The middle of this book has fourteen pages in full color, showing some of the variations in the colors and in the molds. The book is divided into three sections:

General Pieces
Some of the licensed pieces shown are Thomas the Tank; Tom and Jerry; Andy Capp; Yogi Bear; Disney; Dismal Desmond and Pogo. Of course this is only a small part of the general issue items, as dozens of animals, nursery rhyme and buildings were also issued.

The Official International Wade Collectors Club Membership Exclusives
Snow people, nursery rhyme and toy series are shown here. As in most collector clubs, you have to belong to purchase and usually get one "free" with membership.

Commissioned Models
Christmas Crackers; Dennis the Menace (different than US version); quite a few Betty Boops; Snoopy; Scooby Doo and of course Red Rose tea pieces are only a few of the dozens of special items found here.

If you are a flea market addict this book will be a great investment to help find out more about those tiny little pieces you keep finding at the sales!

For more information or to order this book:
The Charlton Press

The official Wade website

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