The Online Estate Auction comes from Charles Earle Briggs (1938–2024), son of the family behind C.A. Briggs Company, maker of Boston Wafers, Briggs' Yankee Barley Candies, and Hospital Brand Cough Drops, later acquired by New England Confectionery.
Charles Briggs was recognized by the Royal Doulton community, inducted into the Royal Doulton Collectors Hall of Fame by Michael Doulton himself. It’s no surprise his estate includes a remarkable collection of Royal Doulton rarities — from sought-after figurines like Butterfly (HN719) and The Mask (HN785) to limited editions such as The Piper and the iconic Old Salt jug, plus the Kingsware Micawber Dewar’s decanter and the Bond-famous Jack the Bulldog.
A graduate of Maine Maritime Academy and former Merchant Marine, Charles returned to Massachusetts to carry on the family candy business before later building a second career in transportation. Beyond business, he was a lifelong Freemason and a passionate supporter of the arts — a self-taught organist and longtime member of the Eastern Massachusetts Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society (EMCATOS). In 2023, he was honored as ATOS Member of the Year for his decades of dedication. His collection reflects the same qualities he brought to his life — craftsmanship, history, and a love of music and design.
The auction also features luxury crystal and barware, including hand-engraved Queen Lace Safari glasses and a mid-century Pilsner set with copper tray. Collectors will discover specialty sets like Franklin Mint pewter locomotives with display case, Danbury Mint pewter classic cars, and charming Beatrix Potter figurines.
Rounding out the catalog are mid-century décor and novelties, from a signed DeMott brass sailboat sculpture to a 1964 Edmund Scientific Space Clock, alongside seasonal favorites such as vintage Japanese Elf on the Shelf ornaments and eclectic Royal Doulton Bunnykins collections.
Don’t miss this chance to explore a collection rich with museum-level rarities brought to you by Lifecycle Senior Services in partnership with BidRush Online Auctions. This auction is the story of a Massachusetts family whose life touched both local industry and the arts. By participating, you’re helping to give these pieces a second story.
This Online auction runs online until September 28th Free to register and bid — you only pay if you win! On a related note, Newton auction is also online.