Horlick's Malted Milk Glass Jar Value Guide

The Horlick's Malted Milk glass jar is a quintessential piece of American advertising history, originating from the Horlick brothers' innovative factory in Racine, Wisconsin. These jars are highly collectible because they represent the first successful dried malted milk powder, a product famously used by polar explorers for its durability and nutrition.

What Is Horlick's Malted Milk Glass Jar Worth?

The typical price range for Horlick's Malted Milk Glass Jar is $15 - $30 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, cracks, or 'cloudiness' from being buried.
• The presence of the original metal lid significantly increases the market value toward the $30 range.
• Clarity and depth of the embossed lettering, as sharper molds are more desirable to collectors.
• Size variations, as Horlick's produced several different capacities for home and soda fountain use.

How to Identify Horlick's Malted Milk Glass Jar?

• Look for the distinct embossed lettering on the side of the clear glass specifically reading 'Horlick's Malted Milk'.
• Check the base of the jar for markings indicating the origin of Racine, Wisconsin, which distinguishes it from later international versions.
• Examine the glass for bubbles or slight imperfections consistent with early 1890-1920 manufacturing techniques.
• Verify the presence of a ground rim or specific threading designed for the original metal screw-top lids.

History of Horlick's Malted Milk Glass Jar

William Horlick and his brother James developed the first dried malted milk powder in 1873. Originally intended as an infant food, it became a staple for polar explorers and travelers due to its long shelf life and nutritional value. These jars were the primary packaging for the powdered product during the early 20th century.