Preliminary identification

Fostoria Glass 'Coin' Pattern Lidded Candy Jar in Ruby Red, c.1960s

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A striking example of American pressed glass featuring the iconic 'Coin' pattern in a vibrant, translucent ruby red. The design incorporates frosted 'coins' inspired by 1887 Liberty Head coins, a hallmark of Fostoria's mid-century production.

Story

Fostoria launched this pattern in 1958 to celebrate their 75th anniversary. While the original 19th-century 'Coin' glass was actually illegal to produce because it depicted real currency, Fostoria bypassed the law by using fictional coin dates.

Maker / Origin

The Fostoria Glass Company was once the largest maker of handmade glassware in the United States. Known for their high-quality 'elegant glass,' they survived the Depression by pivoting to patterns that felt luxurious yet remained affordable for the growing American middle class.

Condition & Value

The glass appears vibrant with no obvious clouding. There is some visible shelf wear on the base and a potential small scuff on the side hobnails. Condition of the inner rim is vital as these pieces chip easily when the lid is replaced. The presence of the lid significantly impacts value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.