Preliminary identification

Federal Glass 'Block Optic' Green Uranium Glass Footed Tumblers

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A beautiful set of four footed tumblers in the iconic 'Block Optic' pattern, boasting a vibrant green hue. These pieces are made of uranium glass, meaning they contain trace amounts of uranium dioxide that cause them to glow a brilliant, neon green under a ultraviolet blacklight.

Story

During the dark days of the Great Depression, American glassmakers added trace amounts of uranium to their batches to create cheap, cheerful tableware. These glowing green vessels brought a much-needed splash of vibrant color to struggling households.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1900 in Columbus, Ohio, the Federal Glass Company was a giant of the American 'Depression Glass' industry. They pioneered mass-production techniques that allowed them to produce millions of affordable, beautifully patterned glassware sets for everyday families.

Condition & Value

The tumblers appear to be in good vintage condition with no major cracks visible. There is minor surface wear consistent with age, and the rims should be closely inspected by hand for tiny flea bites or rough spots, which are common in molded glassware of this era and can reduce value by 20-30%.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

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

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

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.