Fenton Cranberry Opalescent Hobnail Vase Value Guide

Produced between 1940 and 1970, this Fenton Art Glass masterpiece is highly collectible for its complex cranberry color achieved through the infusion of real gold. The combination of the iconic raised hobnail texture and the delicate opalescent ruffled rim represents the pinnacle of mid-20th-century American glassmaking artistry.

What Is Fenton Cranberry Opalescent Hobnail Vase Worth?

The typical price range for Fenton Cranberry Opalescent Hobnail Vase is $75 - $120 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Color intensity: Deep, rich cranberry tones produced with gold are more desirable than lighter or uneven shades.
• Condition of hobnails: Chips, flakes, or 'flea bites' on the raised points significantly reduce the market value.
• Opalescence quality: The clarity and consistency of the milky white fire around the ruffled edge affects its aesthetic appeal.
• Size and shape: While standard vases range from $75-$120, unique heights or rare structural variations can command higher premiums.

How to Identify Fenton Cranberry Opalescent Hobnail Vase?

• Look for the distinct 'hobnail' pattern consisting of uniform, raised bumps across the body of the deep red glass.
• Examine the rim for a milky, translucent opalescent finish that contrasts with the vibrant cranberry base.
• Check for the characteristic ruffled or 'crimped' edge, a signature technique of Fenton craftsmen during the 1940-1970 era.
• Verify the pontil mark or Fenton logo; note that pieces made before 1970 may not have an embossed logo but should show specific mold marks.

History of Fenton Cranberry Opalescent Hobnail Vase

Fenton Art Glass Company, founded in 1905, became a prominent American glass manufacturer known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The hobnail pattern, characterized by its raised dots, was a popular design that added texture and visual interest. Cranberry opalescent glass, achieved by adding gold to the glass mixture, was a highly sought-after color, particularly in the mid-20th century. These pieces represent a significant period of American glassmaking artistry.