3-IN-ONE OIL GLASS BOTTLE Value Guide

The 3-in-One Oil glass bottle is a quintessential piece of Americana, originating in 1894 when George W. Cole developed the formula in Asbury Park, New Jersey. These early aqua-colored vessels represent the brand's initial success during the late 19th-century bicycle craze before the transition to metal cans.

What affects the value of 3-IN-ONE OIL GLASS BOTTLE?

• Condition of the glass, specifically the absence of chips, cracks, or 'cloudiness' from being buried.
• Clarity and depth of the embossed lettering on the side panels.
• Presence of the original cork or remnants of the early paper labeling, which significantly increases rarity.
• The specific shade of aqua, as deeper or more unique glass tints can command the higher end of the $15-$16 price range.

How to Identify 3-IN-ONE OIL GLASS BOTTLE?

• Look for the distinct aqua-colored glass characteristic of late 19th and early 20th-century production.
• Verify the presence of sharp, embossed lettering on the sides of the bottle indicating the brand name.
• Check for a cork-top finish or evidence of a hand-tooled lip, which distinguishes these from later machine-made versions.
• Examine the base for specific mold marks or glassmaker symbols consistent with United States manufacturing between 1894 and 1910.

History of 3-IN-ONE OIL GLASS BOTTLE

Developed by George W. Cole in Asbury Park, New Jersey, in 1894, 3-in-One Oil was named for its ability to clean, lubricate, and prevent rust. Originally marketed for bicycle chains during the cycling craze of the late 19th century, it quickly became a household staple for sewing machines and tools. These early glass bottles were eventually phased out for the iconic metal cans in the mid-20th century.