Ball Ideal Bicentennial Jar Value Guide

The Ball Ideal Bicentennial Jar is a commemorative 1976 release by the Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company to celebrate America's 200th anniversary. It is highly collectible for its unique combination of the classic wire bail closure design and specific patriotic embossing.

What affects the value of Ball Ideal Bicentennial Jar?

• The presence of the original metal wire bail and an undamaged glass lid significantly maintains value.
• Glass clarity and the absence of chips or 'sick glass' cloudiness can push prices toward the $30 range.
• The vibrancy of the aqua blue color compared to standard clear versions of the era.
• Overall condition of the commemorative embossing, ensuring the eagle and dates are crisp and not worn.

How to Identify Ball Ideal Bicentennial Jar?

• Look for the prominent eagle emblem embossed on the front of the aqua blue glass.
• Verify the commemorative dates '1776-1976' are clearly visible on the jar's surface.
• Check for the signature 'Ideal' wire bail closure mechanism and matching glass lid.
• Confirm the 'Ball' script logo matches the style used by the company during the mid-1970s production run.

History of Ball Ideal Bicentennial Jar

Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company began producing jars in 1884. The 'Ideal' jar, with its distinctive wire bail closure, was one of their popular designs. In 1976, to celebrate the United States Bicentennial, Ball released a special edition of their Ideal jars featuring an eagle and the dates 1776-1976, making them a unique piece of American history and a collector's item.