Nebraska woman’s rare crock sells for $32K on her 91st birthday
A Nebraska grandmother received an unexpected birthday gift when a humble crock that sat on her front porch for decades sold for an astonishing $32,000 — just days before she turned 91.
Lois Jurgens, 91, had nearly included the weather-beaten crock in a garage sale, where it might have fetched no more than $50. The 30-gallon Red Wing Stoneware piece had been sitting on her porch for nearly 40 years, surrounded by snow and fallen leaves and protected by a homemade lid.
Around the time Jurgens began thinking about selling it, Bramer Auction and Realty announced a special auction devoted entirely to antique crocks, according to reporting by news personality Colleen Williams. Jurgens decided to reach out.
At first, auction house owner Ken Bramer was hesitant. The auction was only days away and advertising was already complete. Still, he agreed to visit Jurgens’ home to take a look. When Bramer turned the crock around and spotted rare blue butterfly markings on the back, he immediately recognized its significance.
The crock featured two uncommon stamps — details rarely seen on Red Wing pieces — which dramatically increased its appeal to serious collectors.
Jurgens modestly guessed the crock might sell for about $100. Bramer assured her otherwise, telling her she was “going to be surprised.”
On auction day, Jurgens missed the event because she was celebrating her 91st birthday by volunteering at her local church. Meanwhile, bidders from Texas, Kansas, and Iowa engaged in an intense three-way competition.
By the time Jurgens arrived at the fairgrounds, the auction had concluded.
“We did a little better than $100,” Bramer joked before revealing the final price: $32,000. According to Williams, Jurgens was so overwhelmed by the news that she nearly buckled and had to be helped onto the stage.
Reflecting on the experience, Jurgens said that in all her 91 years, selling the beloved crock was one of the most exciting moments of her life.
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