Following the History of Santa and Santas hardcover collectors books seen below, this three part series traces the evolution of Santa through 4,000 years of history spanning from 2,000 BC to the 20th century. Each Santa has a fascinating historical background. The figurines will help you experience the story of wonder and surprise these thirty-six individuals bring to the world.



The pieces were produced in several sizes and materials. They were manufactured in 18", 12", 8", 6" and 3" heights, and, on three sizes of decorative plates. The 8" was carved from wood. The 3" are pewter and can be used as tree ornaments. Set One came in one box (below) while Set Two came in individual boxes within a larger box. The 6" comes on a 1" base and a music box base. There is a small musical snowglobe, too. The 18", 12" and 6" are cold cast porcelain. There was also a set of 1" lapel pins for the first set. 


The plates are about 3" (can be used as tree ornaments),  8 1/2" and the rarely seen 10 1/4". The last plate series was done in art noveau style by T Holter Bruckner. Lastly, there is a Collector's Club porcelain bell set of Series One with individual years on the side opposite the image about 3-4" high from the 90s.




                                Black Peter
                                Civil War
                                Dedt Moroz
                                Kris Kringle
                                Medieval
                                Nast

Duncan Royale also made a display piece for those dealers ordering and maintaining a certain inventory level. This was called the Signature Piece and may be the item with the lowest production in the collection. Strangely, these sell for much less than the traditional pieces. Most collectors have no idea they exist.

The pieces in the entire collection are available for sale year around but the heaviest concentration begins in late October.  Complete sets of the individual series are offered from time to time. Rarer are complete series sets that have the same serial number. The very, very rarest would be a complete set of all thirty-six with the same serial number. It may not even exist. Max Duncan, the creative genius behind the business, traveled widely among the retailers and signed many pieces for loyal customers. (Thanks, Max!)

This collection changed the world of Santa collectibles. Before these issues debuted very, very few people had even heard of these stories. Many unrelated companies entered the holiday decoration business because of the incredible popularity of the Duncan Royale Santa. These will always be admired and sought after.
 
I am not a dealer and I do not sell.


Ralph Vaughan