by Dick Leidlein and Bernie Lukco
[originally published in the Journal of Antiques and Collectibles, November of 2006]

There was a time when shaving was more of a chore than it is today. Hot water was not available from the tap, so often the water had to be pumped from a well, boiled on a wood burning kitchen stove, and then carried to the bathroom - and then one had to shave with poor lighting. However, if you could afford the 10 cent cost, you could go to a barber shop, relax while reading the Police Gazette, meet friends, buy a cigar and get a professional shave with hot towels and your own shaving mug and soap.

This period, from 1870-1920, was a time when changes were rapidly taking place throughout the country. The industrial revolution was creating new jobs and many unique products. Immigrants were arriving from diverse countries to fill jobs and bring new skills. Almost every man owned a shaving mug either at home or at his barber shop. As a result, there are many shaving mugs available from this period for today's collector. On any day, a collector can connect to eBay and find 150 to 300 shaving mugs for sale. This level of availability has been the case for several years and appears to be a continuing trend. Mugs sell from $10 to $5000, so they are accessible to everyone who has an interest in these historic and handsome items.

As with any collectible, you should ask yourself some questions so that you will feel comfortable with your collection:

How much money is available for your hobby? Attractive mugs used in the home come in a variety of shapes and decorations and are available from $10 -$150. Mugs used in barber shops and displaying the name of the owner range from $50 to $5000.

How much space do you have to display the shaving mugs? Most collectors purchase mug racks that each hold 35 -70 mugs. They usually hang on a wall, so some wall space is necessary. Although shaving mugs are not large (about the size of a generous coffee cup) and are easy to display, you should consider the space available in your home. Mug racks that were used in barber shops remain available and currently cost about $15-$20 per mug hole. Newer racks made for collectors are generally much cheaper.

Four examples of Decorated Mugs used in the home

Seven examples of Occupational Mugs

Set a goal for collecting. The varieties of mugs available are numerous. Some collectors want a sample of each type, some specialize in a particular category and some concentrate on particular manufacturers. A focus may enable you to complete a sub-collection of specialty mugs.

A basic distinction in collecting shaving mugs is between those shaving mugs that were used in barber shops and those that were used in the home. Mugs used in the home provide more variety of style, shape and decoration. Many were purchased at local stores and through catalogues like Sears and Roebuck, and do not have the owner's name on them.