Anyone familiar with flea market shopping has seen the collectible glassware known as Depression Glass. Mass produced from the late 1920s through the 1940s, much of the glass was given away at movie theaters, with an oil change or with the purchase of oatmeal. My mother remembers dish night at the movies.
Recently I met Joyce Nichols at a Depression glass show and she told me a story about an old box of oatmeal she used to use as a display at the shows. The Sandwich pattern bowls were given away with this cereal. Someone saw the box and made her an offer she couldn’t refuse. For the box! You never know what people collect these days.
Depression glass was made in many colors — pink, red, yellow, green, blue, lavender and amber. There were also many patterns. Collectors today, work hard to complete their sets. You still can find this beautiful glass at reasonable prices although there are some types of glass that is of finer quality from that period that is a little more of an investment. Rare items are usually butter dishes, serving pieces, or lids. I searched for years for my lid to the sugar bowl. You can also find glass lamps.
Many of the patterns are very deco in their styling. Mixing and matching patterns and colors can make a very creative table setting. Most collectors use their glassware. It is very durable although I admit I keep it out of the dishwasher.
If you are looking to start a collection of Depression Glass, I suggest you purchase the book “The Collector’s Encyclopedia of Depression Glass” by Gene Florence. This is the guide that many dealers use to price their merchandise. It is the perfect book to familiarize yourself with the different patterns and their colors.
Collecting Depression Glass can be a fun and rewarding hobby while adding charm to your home. Visit these links for more on Depression Glass.
I HAVE A COLLECTION OF AMBER PATRICIAN SPOKE. I BOUGHT MOST OF IT IN THE 70’S AND 80’S USING GENE FLORENCE (FOURTH ADDITION) COLLECTORS ENCYCLOPEDIA AS MY PURCHASING GUIDE.
I AM THINKING OF SELLING IT ON E-BAY. I WAS AT THE LIBRARY YESTERDAY TO REFERENCE HIS LATEST EDITION AND CHECK THE CURRENT PRICES.
WOULD THIS BE A GUIDE I COULD USE TO PRICE MY COLLECTION?
THANK YOU, BEVERLY FORD
I bought most of my depression glass in the 70’s. I wish they had ebay back then. I think you need to research the going prices on ebay. I noticed that some patterns are selling well below what they should. I think ebay is making it easier to find and you need to be competitive. Remember… you need to also be compensated for your time. Selling on ebay is time consuming. Do your research and best of luck.