How to Evaluate Depression-Era Glassware

That colorful, translucent vase collecting dust on Grandma's mantel might actually be now-valuable mass-produced glass from the 1920s. Here's how to determine if you've got a treasure.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Glass dealers

1. Research the pieces you own. Since more than 200 patterns of Depression glass exist, rarity determines value. Most had little to no hand-finishing or treatments done to the glass once it was came out of the mold. Short-run colors like alexandrite (lavender) and tangerine now command hefty prices in the collector market.

2. Attend an antique show and look for Depression glass dealers. Remember that the prices you see at the show are retail; you'll get half that or less if you sell your wares to a dealer.

3. Search the Internet for Depression-glass collector clubs and enthusiasts. The National Depression Glass Association (ndga.net) has an annual convention.

Tips & Warnings

• Used as promotional items during the Depression, this glassware came in soap or cereal boxes, or was given away at movie theaters or gas stations to encourage patrons