I was about to put a mug into a rummage sale when I noticed what LOOKS
like "Applegate '37" on the bottom of it. If this was really made in
1937 (and it's in fantastic shape), I didn't want to give it away only
to find that it was worth something.

So my question is: Is there any artist named "Applegate" who
hand-crafted mugs/pottery, and if so, would his or her work be worth
anything today? I will also provide a $5 tip for any answer that can
back up (i.e., with comparable estimates, sales prices, etc.) the
ballpark value of a mug by this artist, made in 1937 and in excellent
condition.

Of course I'm hoping that there's SOME information about this mug, but
I will consider the question answered if there is enough evidence to
say, "No, there's no such artist."