Royal Bonn Urn

Q: I’m looking to identify the attached mark. There are two initials and “1755” in a shield with a crown on top.

A: This mark was used on porcelain made by Franz Anton Mehlem, who operated a pottery in Bonn, Germany, beginning in 1836. The mark includes his initials, “FAM,” conjoined and was used from about 1875 to 1890. The number “1755” is the first year a pottery operated on the site. This mark can also be found with the words “Royal Bonn,” a trade name used by Franz Anton Mehlem, The company was sold to Villeroy & Boch in 1921. It closed in 1931 and the factory was demolished a few years later. A 10-inch Royal Bonn urn in perfect condition might sell for $200; a 30-inch urn for up to $800