In 1933, Charles J. Noke developed a new type of figural Toby jug showing only the head and shoulders rather than a full-figure as had been done since the 1700s. Noke designed a series of jugs of famous people or characters in English history, literature, and song.  The first jugs were of Old Charley, a night watchman, and John Barleycorn, the personification of whiskey.

The miniature size of Old Charley was issued between the years 1939 to 1983. The Royal Doulton B9 underglaze mark is applied, along with the numerical code of 15, dating this piece to 1942. During this period, Royal Doulton began dating their wares in 1927 and added a code number next to the lion and crown emblem. Each successive year after 1927 was indicated with a number; thus 1927 + 15 = 1942.

Hand painted details highlight Old Charley's watchful face, framed by grey hair and sideburns beneath a brown hat. Aging yet alert and all-knowing eyes and a smirking mouth add a sense of purpose to Old Charley's face. A hunter green coat is accented by a green polka-dotted scarf tied in a handsome bow. A simple brown handle indicates this piece is one of the earlier designs which did not incorporate figural handles.

Old Charley's name is inscribed along the back of his coat.

A hand-painted R. is present on the bottom markings.

The character jug measures approximately 2" in length, as measured to include the tip of Old Charley's nose, and 3 1/8" wide, including the spout and extending handle. It is 2 1/4" high, as measured to the top of his hat.

The figurine is in excellent condition, with absolutely no chips, cracks, crazing, or repairs of any kind.