Fostoria American Salad Plate Value Guide

The Fostoria American Salad Plate is a cornerstone of the most successful pattern in glassware history, produced in the United States from 1915 to 1982. Its enduring appeal lies in the sophisticated three-dimensional cube design that mimics the intricate look of 'Brilliant' period cut glass through high-quality pressing techniques.

What affects the value of Fostoria American Salad Plate?

• Condition is paramount; chips on the sharp edges of the cube pattern significantly reduce the $15-$17 market value.
• Glass clarity and the absence of 'sick' or cloudy glass from dishwasher damage preserve the item's worth.
• Production era can influence value, with earlier pieces often showing sharper detail in the pressed mold.
• The presence of original factory stickers or provenance can occasionally command a premium from specialized collectors.

How to Identify Fostoria American Salad Plate?

• Look for the signature three-dimensional cubist pattern that creates a geometric 3D effect across the surface.
• Verify the presence of a distinct sunburst or starburst design located in the center of the plate.
• Check for high-quality crystal clarity and fire, as Fostoria was known for superior glass batches compared to imitators.
• Examine the edges for the specific 'American' line profile which features a smooth, fire-polished finish.

History of Fostoria American Salad Plate

Introduced in 1915, the American line by Fostoria is one of the most successful and long-lived patterns in glassware history. Its three-dimensional cube design was inspired by the early American 'Brilliant' cut glass style but was produced using more efficient pressing techniques. The pattern remained in production for over 60 years, becoming a staple of American dining rooms.