Gebhardt Eagle Chili Powder Bottle Value Guide

This 1930s glass bottle represents the legacy of William Gebhardt, who revolutionized American cooking in 1894 by creating the first commercial chili powder. As a staple of Southwestern culinary history, these bottles are highly collectible for their connection to the oldest chili powder brand in the United States.

What Is Gebhardt Eagle Chili Powder Bottle Worth?

The typical price range for Gebhardt Eagle Chili Powder Bottle is $15 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Clarity of the glass, as cloudiness or 'sick glass' from burial can reduce the $15-$25 market value.
• The sharpness and detail of the embossed eagle and text; crisp strikes are more desirable to collectors.
• Physical condition, specifically the absence of chips, cracks, or heavy surface scratching.
• Presence of the original metal screw cap or remnants of the paper label, which can push the value to the higher end of the range.

How to Identify Gebhardt Eagle Chili Powder Bottle?

• Look for the prominent embossed eagle emblem centered on the front of the clear glass.
• Verify the presence of the 'TRADE MARK' lettering embossed directly below the eagle logo.
• Check for the specific 1930s-era machine-made bottle characteristics, such as a visible side seam that runs through the lip.
• Confirm the bottle size and shape matches the standard small spice jars used by Gebhardt in the early 20th century.

History of Gebhardt Eagle Chili Powder Bottle

Gebhardt Chili Powder was first created by William Gebhardt in 1894 in New Braunfels, Texas, making it the oldest chili powder brand in the United States. Gebhardt's innovation was grinding dried ancho chiles into a convenient powder, revolutionizing how chili was prepared. The company's products, including this chili powder, became a staple in American kitchens, particularly in the Southwest, and the bottles are sought after by collectors for their historical significance and distinctive eagle emblem.