Hemingray-42 Glass Insulator Value Guide

The Hemingray-42 is a quintessential piece of American industrial history, serving as a vital component in the expansion of telegraph and electrical networks between 1920 and 1940. Produced by the renowned Hemingray Glass Company, these aqua-colored insulators are prized for their distinct mold shape and historical connection to North American infrastructure.

What Is Hemingray-42 Glass Insulator Worth?

The typical price range for Hemingray-42 Glass Insulator is $15 - $25 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the glass, specifically the absence of chips or 'flea bites' on the sharp drip points.
• Clarity and depth of the aqua color, as variations in glass batches can affect desirability.
• The sharpness and legibility of the embossed 'Hemingray-42' markings on the surface.
• Market demand for specific mold variations or manufacturing date codes found on the base.

How to Identify Hemingray-42 Glass Insulator?

• Look for the embossed 'Hemingray-42' text clearly visible on the skirt of the aqua glass.
• Verify the presence of a drip edge, which was a signature design feature of Hemingray molds to shed water.
• Check for the specific '42' style designation, which refers to the unique mold number used by the manufacturer.
• Examine the glass for the characteristic light blue-green 'aqua' tint typical of early 20th-century production.

History of Hemingray-42 Glass Insulator

Glass insulators like this Hemingray-42 were crucial in the expansion of telegraph and telephone networks, and later electricity, across North America. The Hemingray Glass Company, established in 1848, became one of the largest manufacturers of glass insulators in the United States. The '42' designation indicates a specific style or mold number. These insulators were designed to prevent the electrical current from leaking into the poles or structures they were mounted on. They are highly sought after by collectors today due to their historical significance, variety of colors, and embossed markings.