Cobalt Blue Glass Jar Value Guide

These vibrant cobalt blue glass jars were essential apothecary staples in the United States between 1920 and 1950, primarily used to shield light-sensitive ointments from degradation. Their iconic deep blue hue and association with legacy brands like Noxzema and Vicks VapoRub make them a nostalgic favorite for medical bottle collectors.

What Is Cobalt Blue Glass Jar Worth?

The typical price range for Cobalt Blue Glass Jar is $10 - $15 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Presence of the original brand label, such as Vicks or Noxzema, significantly increases collector interest.
• Condition of the glass, specifically the absence of 'sick glass' cloudiness, chips, or heavy scratching.
• Rarity of the specific size or shape, as standard ointment jars are more common than specialized medicinal vessels.
• The inclusion of the original metal lid, which is often lost to corrosion or disposal over time.

How to Identify Cobalt Blue Glass Jar?

• Look for a deep, uniform cobalt blue color throughout the glass body.
• Check for vintage mold seams, which typically run up the sides of jars from this era.
• Examine the base for embossed manufacturer marks or numbers indicative of early 20th-century US production.
• Identify the mouth style, as these jars often featured threaded tops for metal or early plastic screw-on lids.

History of Cobalt Blue Glass Jar

Cobalt blue glass jars like this one were popular in the early to mid-20th century, particularly for pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. The dark blue color helped to protect the contents from light degradation, preserving their efficacy. Brands like Noxzema and Vicks VapoRub frequently used these distinctive blue jars, making them recognizable and collectible today.