From hand-painted glass eggs to German composition bunnies, vintage Easter finds capture the whimsy of spring with true old-world craft. This guide spotlights ten classic pieces—chocolate moulds, postcards, candy containers, papier-mâché eggs, tin litho toys, and more—explaining what they are, why collectors love them, and the condition details that drive price. Whether you’re styling a seasonal vignette or combing an attic for treasures, use this list to recognize authentic materials, spot maker marks, and choose display-worthy pieces that hold their value.
1. Antique Chocolate Moulds
Antique chocolate moulds are a beloved vintage Easter piece among collectors. These charming relics, often made from metal, were used to shape chocolate into festive Easter shapes, such as bunnies and eggs. Their beauty and craftsmanship make them a sought-after item for those who appreciate vintage kitchenware and Easter traditions.
The rising popularity of vintage kitchenware and the nostalgia associated with Easter traditions make these moulds a hot commodity. The intricate designs are a testament to the craftsmanship of the period, and can even be used today for homemade Easter treats. According to the Chocolate Molds Museum, moulds began to be widely used in the 19th century and remain highly collectible today.
2. German Composition Easter Bunnies
German composition Easter bunnies are treasured vintage Easter pieces. Made primarily in the early 20th century, these charming bunnies were hand-painted and crafted from a mixture of wood pulp and glue. The attention to detail and the uniqueness of each piece make them a popular choice for collectors.
Today, these composition bunnies are highly sought after for their historical significance and the handcrafted charm they bring to Easter displays. Marketplace categories like Ruby Lane’s German Easter candy containers show steady interest.
3. Vintage Postcards
Vintage postcards, especially those featuring Easter themes, are another sought-after item. The artwork on these postcards often reflects the styles and sentiments of their era, making them a fascinating snapshot of history. Collectors often seek out these postcards for their artistic value and historical significance.
The trend of collecting vintage postcards has been on an upward trajectory, with Easter-themed ones seeing particular interest around the holiday season. See this overview on Postcard History for examples and context.
4. Glass Easter Egg Ornaments
Glass Easter egg ornaments, particularly those produced in the early 20th century, are another vintage Easter piece that collectors prize. These beautiful, delicate items were often hand-painted and blown, making each one unique. They are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who created them.
Interest in these ornaments has resurged, with collectors appreciating their beauty and history. Museum records like this Smithsonian object entry document blown-glass Easter eggs and their decorative techniques.
5. Candy Containers
Old-fashioned candy containers are a charming reminder of past Easter celebrations. These containers, often shaped like rabbits, chicks, or eggs, were filled with sweet treats and given as gifts. Their nostalgic appeal and variety of designs make them a favorite among collectors.
Today, these vintage candy containers are in demand for their nostalgic charm and historical significance. For pricing trends and examples by motif, see Kovels’ candy containers section.
6. Paper Mache Eggs
Paper mache eggs are another vintage Easter item that people love to collect. Often produced in Germany, these eggs were beautifully decorated and used to contain small Easter gifts. Their beauty and the craftsmanship that went into creating them make them a sought-after item.
These eggs have seen a resurgence in popularity, with many appreciating the history and craftsmanship associated with them. The Shiloh Museum outlines how German papier-mâché Easter eggs were made and marked over time.
7. Easter Greeting Cards
Old Easter greeting cards are another vintage item that collectors seek. These cards often feature beautiful artwork and sentimental messages, making them a charming snapshot of the past. Collectors often look for cards that are in good condition and that feature specific themes or artists.
Today, these cards are valued for their historical and artistic significance. Browse the extensive Easter postcard category on CardCow to see styles, motifs, and price ranges.
8. Vintage Easter Bonnets
Vintage Easter bonnets are a charming reminder of past Easter fashion trends. These bonnets, often adorned with flowers, ribbons, and other decorations, were a staple of Easter outfits in the early 20th century. Their elegance and historical significance make them a favorite among vintage clothing collectors.
For a concise historical overview, see Mimi Matthews’ piece on 19th-century Easter bonnets, with period sources and examples.
9. Tin Lithograph Easter Toys
Tin lithograph Easter toys from the early 20th century are another beloved vintage item. These toys, often featuring Easter themes like rabbits and chicks, were popular gifts for children during the holiday. Their vibrant colors and unique designs make them a favorite among vintage toy collectors.
Collectors continue to chase tin litho toys for their bright graphics and nostalgia. For collecting guidance and what affects value, see The Spruce Crafts’ overview.
10. Easter Bunny Figurines
Antique Easter bunny figurines are another vintage Easter piece that people hunt for. These charming figurines, often made of porcelain or ceramic, were popular decorations during the Easter season. Their variety of designs and the craftsmanship that went into creating them make them a sought-after item among collectors.
These figurines are in demand for their nostalgic charm and historical significance. Explore examples and collecting notes at Collectors Weekly’s rabbit figurines page.
