Green Depression Glass Ashtray Value Guide

This 1930s Green Depression Glass ashtray is a quintessential piece of Americana, featuring a distinctive fish motif that provided affordable luxury during the Great Depression. Its composition of uranium glass makes it highly sought after by collectors who appreciate its unique glow and historical significance as a former promotional premium.

What Is Green Depression Glass Ashtray Worth?

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

• The presence of the central fish motif significantly impacts the desirability and $60 market value.
• Condition is critical, as chips or cracks in the delicate glass edges will decrease the item's worth.
• The intensity of the glow under blacklight confirms the uranium content, a key factor for specialized collectors.
• Historical provenance as a premium item from the Great Depression era adds to its collectible appeal.

How to Identify Green Depression Glass Ashtray?

• Verify the presence of uranium glass by using a UV light to check for a bright neon green glow.
• Look for the specific fish motif molded into the center of the glass, a hallmark of this particular design.
• Check for characteristic manufacturing marks from the 1930s, such as small air bubbles or slight mold seams.
• Examine the vibrant green color consistency which is typical of mass-produced glassware from the United States era.

History of Green Depression Glass Ashtray

Depression glass was inexpensive, mass-produced glassware made in the United States and Canada during the Great Depression. Its affordability made it popular during a time of economic hardship, often given away as premiums in cereal boxes, at movie theaters, or in bags of flour. The vibrant colors and diverse patterns, like the fish motif on this ashtray, offered a small touch of luxury in otherwise challenging times.