Q : I have a teapot that says “Made in Occupied Japan” on the bottom. Other marks on the bottom look like the letter “G” surrounded by the letters “C” and “U.” I have been unable to find any information about the teapot or its marks. I would like to know who made the teapot and what it’s worth.
A : The mark on your teapot stands for “UCAGCO.” It was used by the United China & Glass Co., an importer located in New York and New Orleans. The company was founded by Abe Mayer in 1850 and was originally called Abe Mayer & Co. The UCAGCO mark was first used in the 1930s. UCAGCO was the first company allowed to import goods from Japan after the end of World War II. Items marked “Made in Occupied Japan” were made between 1947 and 1952. The company was later sold to Sammons Enterprises. Your teapot is worth $20 to $30.