An octagonal dinner plate in "daffodil" yellow glaze personally owned and used by former 40th U.S. President Ronald Reagan (1911-2004) and First Lady Nancy Reagan (1921-2016) at their Bel Air, California home. Manufactured by Interpace NKT Japan, with the under glaze backstamp verso depicting Philadelphia's Independence Hall and reading in part, "1776 Independence © Ironstone." Originally sold at Christie's in New York City, September 19-28, 2016, with a Christie's auction sticker affixed to the plate bottom. Accompanied by a University Archives authentication tag signed by John Reznikoff. Expected surface wear including crazing, a shallow flake at the underside of one corner, and a hairline at center, else very good. 10.25" in diameter.

This brightly colored plate was made by Interpace, originally founded in 1875 under the name Franciscan, and later expanded to include other potteries. The company made floor tiles, dinnerware, and art pottery featuring a variety of trademarks. In 1936, the name used in advertisements and marks was changed from Franciscan Pottery to Franciscan Ware. The company then became the Interpace Corporation and in 1979 was purchased by Josiah Wedgwood & Sons. The plant was closed in 1984 but a few of the patterns are still being made. The "1776 Independence" pattern was loved by the Reagans.

Nancy Reagan was well known for her interest in elegant designer classics, and the Reagans' choice of dinnerware was no exception. Her flair for entertaining and hosting was amply demonstrated during her time as First Lady. “She felt the White House should exemplify the best,” said Mark Weinberg, who worked on Ronald Reagan’s campaigns in the White House Press Office. After leaving the White House, the Reagans entertained many people at their homes, ranging from heads of state to Hollywood associates. This stunning piece from the Reagans' personal dinnerware collection exemplifies Nancy Reagan's love of sophisticated design.

The Private Collection of President & Mrs. Ronald Reagan sale at Christie's held between September 19-28, 2016 attained record prices. Highlights included $200,000 for cowboy boots emblazoned with the presidential seal, and $100,000 for a sheet of presidential doodles. This incomplete dinnerware set was purchased with the hopes that individual items could be offered to collectors who might not wish to own a large group of china.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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