Pressed glass—mass-produced in molds yet often strikingly beautiful—has been a collector’s favorite since the 19th century. Some patterns and types are highly sought after, especially in rare colors or pristine condition. Here are 8 of the most valuable kinds of pressed glass to look for:
**1. ** Carnival Glass (1908–1920s)
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Why valuable? Iridescent, rainbow-hued glass (originally cheap giveaways, now prized).
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Key makers: Fenton, Northwood, Imperial.
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Top patterns: “Peacock Tail,” “Grape & Cable,” “Good Luck” (with swastikas—pre-WWII).
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Rare colors: Marigold (common), but red, blue, or amethyst fetch 500–5,000+.
**2. ** Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG) (1850–1910)
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Why valuable? Intricate geometric or floral designs; some patterns are scarce.
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Top patterns: “Hobnail,” “Daisy & Button,” “King’s Crown.”
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Look for: Uncommon colors (canary yellow, cobalt blue) or complete sets.
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Value: 50–2,000+ (rare punch bowls or covered dishes).
**3. ** Depression Glass (1920s–1940s)
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Why valuable? Inexpensive in its era, now nostalgic and collectible.
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Top patterns: “Cherry Blossom,” “Mayfair,” “Royal Lace.”
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Pink & green are common, but ultramarine, red, or black are rare.
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Value: 10–1,000+ (full sets or rare pieces like sandwich servers).
**4. ** Heisey Glass (1896–1957)
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Why valuable? High-quality, elegant pressed glass with fine detail.
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Top patterns: “Diamond Quilted,” “Plaid,” “Empress.”
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Look for: Etching, crystal clarity, and original stickers.
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Value: 100–3,000+ (especially stemware or punch bowls).
**5. ** Westmoreland Glass (1889–1985)
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Why valuable? Known for milk glass and detailed animal figurines.
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Top patterns: “Beaded Edge,” “Diamond Point.”
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Rare items: Black amethyst or custard glass.
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Value: 50–1,500+ (especially covered dishes or lamps).
**6. ** Cambridge Glass (1902–1958)
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Why valuable? Often confused with crystal, but highly collectible.
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Top patterns: “Rosepoint,” “Capri.”
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Look for: “Carnival” iridescence or opalescent finishes.
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Value: 75–2,000+ (especially candlesticks or vases).
**7. ** Anchor Hocking’s Fire-King (1940s–1970s)
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Why valuable? Durable, oven-safe glass with a cult following.
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Top items: Jadeite, Peach Luster, or rare advertising mugs.
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Value: 20–800+ (restaurant ware or promotional pieces).
**8. ** L.E. Smith’s Moon & Star (1970s–present, but vintage is prized)
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Why valuable? Thick, glowing glass with celestial motifs.
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Look for: Deep purple, amber, or green hues.
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Value: 30–600+ (especially compotes or water pitchers).
💎 How to Spot Valuable Pressed Glass
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Check seams: Early molds left faint lines; modern reproductions are smoother.
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UV light test: Some glass (vaseline glass) glows green under UV due to uranium.
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Look for marks: Some makers (Heisey, Fenton) marked their glass.
Pro Tip: Complete sets (especially with original labels) sell for 10x more than single pieces!
Would you like help identifying a specific piece? Share a photo or description! 😊
