Hemingray No. 16 Glass Insulator Value Guide

The Hemingray No. 16 is a quintessential piece of American telecommunications history, manufactured by the renowned Hemingray Glass Company between 1920 and 1950. These clear glass insulators were the workhorses of telegraph and telephone lines, prized by collectors today for their industrial aesthetic and historical significance.

What Is Hemingray No. 16 Glass Insulator Worth?

The typical price range for Hemingray No. 16 Glass Insulator is $5 - $15 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition is paramount; chips, cracks, or 'flea bites' on the base or threads significantly reduce the $5-$15 value.
• Clarity of the glass, including the presence of internal bubbles or manufacturing swirls, can influence collector interest.
• The sharpness and legibility of the 'HEMINGRAY-16' embossing affects the item's display quality.
• While typically clear, any unique glass tints or variations resulting from specific production batches can impact market price.

How to Identify Hemingray No. 16 Glass Insulator?

• Look for the embossed 'HEMINGRAY-16' text clearly visible on the skirt of the glass.
• Verify the presence of a drip edge, which was a signature design feature for moisture management.
• Confirm the material is heavy, transparent glass consistent with mid-20th-century industrial production.
• Check for the characteristic 'CD 122' shape designation common to this specific model number.

History of Hemingray No. 16 Glass Insulator

Hemingray Glass Company, established in 1848, was a prominent American glass manufacturer. They became one of the leading producers of glass insulators, essential components for the burgeoning telegraph and telephone networks. The No. 16 model was widely used for its durability and effectiveness in insulating wires.