Fenton Carnival Glass Basket Value Guide

This Fenton Carnival Glass Basket is a hallmark of early 20th-century American craftsmanship, featuring a signature iridescent amethyst sheen and a classic twisted handle. Produced between 1910 and 1940, these baskets are highly collectible due to the unique metallic salt spraying technique that gives each piece its luminous, multi-colored finish.

What Is Fenton Carnival Glass Basket Worth?

The typical price range for Fenton Carnival Glass Basket is $50 - $60 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the iridescent finish, as heavy wear or 'rubbing' to the metallic salts significantly reduces value.
• Structural integrity of the twisted handle, specifically checking for heat checks or cracks at the attachment points.
• The vibrancy of the color spectrum, with high-contrast purples and greens commanding the top end of the $50-$60 range.
• Presence of original manufacturing flaws like straw marks or air bubbles, which are common but can impact aesthetic appeal.

How to Identify Fenton Carnival Glass Basket?

• Look for the deep amethyst base color visible through the iridescent metallic coating when held to light.
• Examine the handle for the characteristic twisted glass design typical of Fenton's early 20th-century production.
• Identify the deeply ruffled or crimped edge which was a staple of Fenton's pressed glass basket molds.
• Check for the absence of a logo; most Fenton pieces from the 1910-1940 era were not marked with the oval 'Fenton' stamp.

History of Fenton Carnival Glass Basket

Carnival Glass, defined by its iridescent sheen achieved by spraying metallic salts onto the glass while hot, was introduced by the Fenton Art Glass Company in 1907. It earned its common name because it was frequently given away as prizes at carnivals, although it was also sold commercially. Fenton was the most prolific producer of Carnival Glass, and these decorative baskets were popular items throughout the 20th century, sought after by collectors for their varied colors and distinctive, luminous finish.