Apothecary Medicine Bottle Value Guide

Blue Ribbon Apothecary Measuring Bottle | eBay
Apothecary Medicine Bottle
Estimated Value
$25 – $40
Period
1890-1930
Origin
United States
Materials
glass

This American-made apothecary bottle represents the transition into mass-produced pharmaceutical packaging between 1890 and 1930. Its rectangular form and embossed measurement markings made it a functional staple for pharmacists dispensing precise liquid dosages during the patent medicine era.

What Is Apothecary Medicine Bottle Worth?

The typical price range for Apothecary Medicine Bottle is $25 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Condition of the glass, specifically the absence of 'sick glass' cloudiness or heavy burial scratches.
  • Clarity and sharpness of the embossed measurement markings on the side panel.
  • Presence of original labels or cork stoppers which can push the value toward the $40 range.
  • Intactness of the applied finish neck without chips or hairline fractures.

How to Identify Apothecary Medicine Bottle?

  • Look for the distinct applied finish neck which indicates earlier manufacturing techniques within the 1890-1930 timeframe.
  • Verify the presence of embossed measurement scales on one side of the clear glass body.
  • Check for a rectangular shape with characteristic rounded shoulders typical of US pharmacy stock bottles.
  • Inspect the glass for bubbles or slight imperfections consistent with early molded glass production.

History of Apothecary Medicine Bottle

Small glass medicine bottles like this were widely produced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for pharmacies and patent medicines. Makers used moulded glass with embossed labels or measurement scales so pharmacists could dose liquids accurately. These bottles were commonly reused and collected; many survive today as examples of early pharmaceutical packaging and glassmaking techniques.

Shop Similar

Related Items

Have an antique to identify?

Get an instant AI appraisal with values, history, and market insights.

Download for iPhone