Are Royal Albert pieces always antique?

No. The Royal Albert name covers more than a century of production, so pieces range from antiques to modern retail items. “Antique” often means 100 years old or older, so only early Royal Albert production fits that label. Many widely traded items are vintage, often mid-20th-century patterns. Modern pieces are still offered new in shops. For dating, start with the backstamp style and country line, then match the pattern’s known launch era and your item’s shape.