Overview
The item exhibits the distinctive 'Moon and Star' pressed glass pattern and 'Amberina' color gradient (transitioning from ruby red to amber), which are hallmark characteristics of L.E. Smith Glass Company's mid-20th-century reproductions.
Identification
Vintage L.E. Smith Amberina Glass "Moon and Star" 5.5-Inch Canister
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
The L.E. Smith Glass Company of Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, was a prolific manufacturer of pressed glass. In the mid-20th century, they acquired the molds for the 'Moon and Star' pattern—originally introduced in the 1880s by Adams & Co.—and popularized it in vibrant, modern colors. The Amberina gradient (transitioning from ruby red to amber) is a hallmark of their 1960s and 1970s production.
Maker / Origin
L.E. Smith Glass Company
Condition & Value
Visually, the canister presents well with a strong, vibrant color gradient and no obvious structural cracks visible in the provided images. The original matching lid is present, which is crucial for the form.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The secondary market for mid-century Early American Pattern Glass (EAPG) reproductions remains highly active, driven by nostalgic collectors and 'retro-core' interior decorators. L.E. Smith's 'Moon and Star' pattern is particularly liquid on platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Mercari. While single pieces are plentiful and trade in a narrow, accessible price band, the Amberina colorway is highly sought after and typically moves faster than clear or solid amber variants.
Value Drivers
▲ Desirable 'Amberina' color gradient typically commands a premium over solid amber or clear glass
▲ Highly recognizable 'Moon and Star' pattern with strong retro/mid-century appeal
▲ Original matching lid is present, preserving the piece's utility and display value
Concerns
▼ Unverified rim condition — tactile 'flea bites' or chips on the inner lid/rim could discount the piece toward the low end of the range
▼ High market saturation for single canisters limits the absolute price ceiling compared to full sets
Best Venue
List on a retail-focused platform like Etsy or eBay using a fixed-price format rather than an auction. Thoroughly run a finger along the inner rim of the base and the bottom edge of the lid to check for 'flea bites,' and explicitly state the findings in the listing to build buyer trust. Photograph the piece backlit to highlight the fiery Amberina gradient.
Upside Potential
If the piece is confirmed to be in absolute mint condition with zero rim roughness ('flea bites'), it can confidently be priced at the $45 retail ceiling on a boutique platform like Etsy. As a single small canister, it is unlikely to exceed this range unless paired with the rest of its original set.
▾Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 1 comp
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.
Also found — market-range context
Related comps outside the valuation band· 1 comp
- LE Smith Moon and Star Amberina Cadmium Glass Canister with Lid Red OrangeExcerpt indicates this is a goblet, not a canister.$60