Are limited edition plates by The Franklin Mint worth anything?

Many collectors ask iGuide about the marketability of limited edition porcelain plates issued by The Franklin Mint and other private mints. Beginning in the 1970s, The Franklin Mint issued limited edition porcelain plates in many series and on many subjects. They also issued limited edition plates made of solid sterling silver. Massive advertising campaigns in magazines such as Parade touted the desirability and 'limited' nature of these collectibles. The original issue prices ranged from $30 to $300 EACH!

The sad truth is, in today's market, these porcelain plates are worth only a fraction of their original price in most cases. Thus, most fall into the TRASH category. But don't throw the baby out with the bath water. Sterling silver limited edition plates have good value due to their silver content. While the sterling silver plates often will not fetch more than their original issue price, in many cases they have at least held their value.

VERDICT:

PORCELAIN PLATES: TRASH
PEWTER PLATES: TRASH
STERLING SILVER PLATES: TREASURE

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