Ucago China Occupied Japan

Q I have a pair of vases that are about 6 inches tall. The mark on the bottom looks like overlapping letters ”UCG” and ”Ucagco China Occupied Japan.” They have been in the family for more than 65 years. Should I keep them?”

A This mark was used by the United China & Glass Co., an American importer, beginning in the 1930s. The company was founded in 1850 and had offices in New York and New Orleans. It 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 February 1947 and April 1952. United China & Glass was later sold to Sammons Enterprises. There are collectors of Occupied Japan items. Most Ucagco pieces sell for $20 or less. Since the vases have been in your family for many years, they may be valuable for sentimental reasons.