Overview
An elegant set of 10 vintage clear crystal champagne coupe or sherbet glasses featuring a delicate floral acid-etched pattern and gold-gilded rims.
Identification
Fostoria Glassware 'Chintz' or 'Romance' Etched Champagne Coupe/Sherbet Glasses
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
Fostoria Glass Company, based in Moundsville, West Virginia, was one of the premier manufacturers of elegant glass in the United States from 1887 until 1986. Delicate acid-etched patterns like 'Chintz' and 'Romance' were introduced in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming highly popular staples of mid-century bridal registries. The secondary market for elegant Depression-era glassware is steady but niche, primarily driven by collectors replacing broken pieces or younger buyers seeking vintage barware for entertaining.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
The seller notes that some of the gold gilding on the rims is rubbing off, which is typical for vintage glassware of this era that has been hand-washed or heavily used. Assuming the glasses are otherwise free of chips, cracks, or cloudiness (sick glass), they remain highly usable.
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 elegant Depression-era glassware is steady but niche, primarily driven by collectors replacing broken pieces or younger buyers seeking vintage barware for entertaining. Clear etched crystal with gold accents performs well during the holiday season and wedding months. Complete or large sets (8+) are desirable but can take longer to sell than smaller sets of 4 or 6 due to shipping costs and storage space.
Value Drivers
▲ Large set of 10 provides a complete entertaining suite, anchoring the $90+ floor.
▲ Elegant etched floral patterns (Chintz/Romance) remain popular for vintage barware.
Concerns
▼ Wear to the gold gilding caps the high-end potential; pristine sets command a premium.
▼ Unverified rim or base condition — any undiscovered chips or flea bites would require discounting the affected glasses.
Best Venue
List the entire set of 10 together on a marketplace like eBay or Etsy to maximize the total transaction value and appeal to buyers looking to outfit a full dinner party. Highlight the elegant etched pattern in well-lit photos against a dark background to make the details pop, and clearly photograph the extent of the gold wear on the rims to set proper buyer expectations.
Upside Potential
If the gold wear is isolated to only one or two glasses and the remaining stems are in pristine condition, the lot could push toward the $130-$140 high-end.