Ball Sure Seal Mason Jar Value Guide

The Ball Sure Seal Mason Jar is a cornerstone of American canning history, introduced in 1910 to feature a revolutionary shoulder-seal design. These jars are highly collectible for their distinct 'Ball Blue' hue, which was created by natural iron impurities found in Lake Michigan sand.

What affects the value of Ball Sure Seal Mason Jar?

• The presence of the original glass lid and metal wire bail significantly impacts the $9-$10 market value.
• Clarity and intensity of the aqua blue color, as variations in the Lake Michigan sand mix can alter the shade.
• Overall glass condition, specifically looking for chips on the rim or 'flea bites' that compromise the seal area.
• The crispness of the embossed lettering, as more defined logos are generally more desirable to collectors.

How to Identify Ball Sure Seal Mason Jar?

• Look for the embossed Ball script logo alongside the specific 'Sure Seal' branding on the glass surface.
• Verify the quart-sized dimensions and the characteristic aqua blue glass color unique to this era.
• Inspect the shoulder for the specific seal design introduced by the Ball brothers starting in 1910.
• Check for the absence of modern machine-made markings, consistent with 1910-1923 production methods.

History of Ball Sure Seal Mason Jar

The Ball brothers founded their company in 1880, but it was the 1910 introduction of the Sure Seal shoulder-seal design that revolutionized home canning. The distinct aqua color, often called Ball Blue, was produced from sand sourced near Lake Michigan, which contained natural iron impurities that created the iconic hue.