Fostoria Glass Value & Price Guide

Fostoria glass represents the pinnacle of American-made elegant glassware, known for its exceptional clarity and intricate patterns. Collectors prize these pieces for their durability and the timeless aesthetic that defined high-end dining throughout the 20th century.

Price Range: $30 - $40 based on recent sales

History of Fostoria Glass

Founded in 1887 in Fostoria, Ohio, the Fostoria Glass Company eventually moved to Moundsville, West Virginia, where it became one of the largest producers of handmade glassware in the world. The company gained immense fame for its 'American' pattern, introduced in 1915, which became the most successful glassware line in history due to its prismatic cube design and vast array of available shapes. Over the decades, Fostoria transitioned from utilitarian pressed ware to sophisticated etched crystal, serving as the official glassware provider for several U.S. Presidential administrations. Despite its prestige, the company faced increasing competition from machine-made glass and foreign imports, leading to its acquisition by Lancaster Colony in 1983 and the eventual closure of the Moundsville plant in 1986.

Value Factors for Fostoria Glass

The typical price range for Fostoria Glass is $30 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Rarity of the form, such as square cake stands or punch bowl sets, which command significantly higher prices than standard tumblers.
• The complexity of the etching, with intricate patterns like 'Navarre' or 'June' typically fetching a premium over plain pressed patterns.
• Condition of the glass, specifically the absence of 'flea bites,' chips on the cube corners, or surface scratches from heavy use.
• Color scarcity, as limited production runs of amber, blue, or green glass are often more sought after than the standard clear crystal.

Tips for Buying Fostoria Glass

• Verify the 'American' pattern by checking for three-toed bases or specific mold marks, as many companies produced similar cube designs.
• Inspect the edges of etched patterns like 'Navarre' for any cloudiness or 'sickness' in the glass that cannot be washed away.
• Use a blacklight to check for repairs or to identify specific glass compositions used during different production eras.
• Prioritize pieces with original ground-glass stoppers for decanters and cruets, as replacements often fit poorly and reduce value.

Items in This Collection

• Fostoria American Wedding Bowl
• Fostoria Colony Cake Stand
• Fostoria American Footed Bowl
• Fostoria American Punch Bowl
• Fostoria American Salt and Pepper Shakers
• Fostoria American Ice Bucket
• Fostoria American Square Cake Plate
• Fostoria Etched Glassware
• Fostoria American Mayonnaise Bowl
• Fostoria American Round Cake Stand
• Fostoria American Cruet
• Fostoria American Sugar Bowl
• Fostoria American Footed Cake Plate
• Fostoria American Top Hat
• Fostoria American Handled Bowl
• Fostoria Navarre Water Goblet
• Fostoria Colony Pitcher
• Fostoria American Flared Vase
• Fostoria American Clear Punch Bowl
• Fostoria American Clear Glass Pitcher