Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A 14 oz. glass peanut butter jar featuring the iconic 'Blue Bird' mascot, a regional brand developed by snack pioneer Laura Scudder. This example retains its original paper label, which highlights the 'Pure' quality and the company's Monterey Park roots.
Story
Laura Scudder was a nurse and lawyer who revolutionized snacks. In 1926, she invented the sealed potato chip bag to keep them fresh, later adding the first-ever 'freshness dates' to food. This Blue Bird logo was her secret weapon for conquering Northern California markets.
Maker / Origin
Laura Scudder (1881–1959) was a true trailblazer. She famously turned down a $9 million buyout because the buyer wouldn't guarantee her employees' jobs, eventually selling for less to a company that would. Her legacy lives on in every bag of chips and jar of natural peanut butter.
Condition & Value
The paper label shows some age-related staining and a small tear at the bottom edge. The metal lid appears to be original but has some surface oxidation. These signs of use are typical for a jar repurposed for workshop storage. Staining reduces value by roughly 20-30%.
Full Research
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.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.