The Vintage Glass Pitcher From The '50s Worth Hunting Down

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Vintage treasures can make entertaining feel special. That silverware or special piece of china that made its way to America with a great, great ancestor tells a tale. That's why thrifting can be so much fun. But while you are at the consignment shop searching for those 1960s Pyrex dishes or on the prowl for unique glassware, you may want to add Fenton to your watchlist, especially the 70-ounce Fenton Cranberry Opalescent Coin Dot pitcher. It's not only eye-catching, but it's worth a pretty penny. On Replacements LTD, this piece sells for close to $400.

What makes it special? This pitcher, with milky white indentations set against a striking shade of red that carries hints of burgundy and purple, was crafted by celebrated American glassmakers Frank L. Fenton and John W. Fenton. The two brothers started their glass business in 1905. What set their glassware apart from others was the color and design they used. Fenton glass made itself distinctive with its innovation. It was the first to introduce carnival glass, and its hobnail glasses remain as coveted today as when they were first made. In 2011, Fenton closed its glassmaking shop.

The signature and unmistakable Fenton cranberry color of the Coin Dot pitcher was made using gold compounds and other metals that reacted when heated. The result is breathtaking. This pitcher is the type of piece you can showcase on a shelf or use when serving sweet and simple lemonade on the veranda. In fact, consider looking for some vintage kitchen linens to complement your glassware find.

But how can you tell if it is authentic? If it is pre-1970s Fenton glassware, which this pitcher is, it may have a Fenton gold sticker on it. If it doesn't have a sticker, it doesn't necessarily mean it isn't real. You may also want to pick up a copy of "Fenton Art Glass Patterns 1939-1980" by Margaret and Kenn Whitmyer. This may help you in dating the Fenton pitcher. However, the best way to determine its authenticity is to take it to an expert who deals in antiques.  

When you are at those Saturday flea markets or secondhand stores, you may be fortunate enough to stumble upon the pitcher and a matching set of glasses as well. Of course, if you are more of an online shopper and don't like to haggle, check out sites like eBay. Just make certain you ask about the condition of the piece so you are not surprised by any chips, scratches, or other imperfections that can happen over time.