Nelson McCoy Miniature Turtle Planter

Produced in the 1930's and early 40's, this miniature turtle measures in at slightly over 4" from head to tail, and only 2" at the tallest point.  For a piece this size, the detail is phenomenal.

One of the first things you notice when you pick up this little treasure is the exceptional detail in the mold.  Take a close look at the realistic toes and "wrinkles" in the skin of the turtle.  The front shows several "skin folds" around the neck as well.  The lines in the top of the shell are no exception.  These are the characteristics that give this piece of McCoy, along with many others, it's unique character. 

One thing you many have never noticed before is the way the turtle is sitting on the base.  At this point it hard to tell if the base is a rock or a log, but either way, it has the same attention to detail that was used on the turtle. Look at the way the base is slanted up, as though the turtle is crawling UP out of the water.  The front of the base is approximately 1/4" higher than the back of the base. 

Now take a close look at the turtle himself.  His head is off to the side....the SAME side where the front leg is getting ready  to take its next step.  If you ever watched a real turtle, this is exactly how they move.  The left foot is slightly wrapped around over the top of the base, almost as if it were hanging on.

Last but not least, this little guy is marked "NM U.S.A.".    Depending on the amount of glaze and sharpness of the mold used to create the piece, it may be difficult to see the mark.  Look on the side of the base right between the front and back legs on the right side of the turtle.  All NM miniature turtles have dry bottoms.

the sharpness of detail will also vary depending on the age of the mold used to create the piece and the amount and thickness of the glaze that was applied.  The turtles came in several different colors.  Of these, white, blue, and teal are the easiest to find.   Coral and Yellow are more difficult. 

Regardless of color, this wonderful piece of McCoy will charm anyone that holds it.   It's almost as though the turtle has an attitude.......an that attitude is saying "Take me home".