McKee Jadeite Refrigerator Dish Value Guide

The McKee Jadeite Refrigerator Dish is a quintessential piece of Depression-era kitchenware, prized for its signature milky green opaque glass. These rectangular lidded vessels were revolutionary for their time, combining the durability of McKee's glass formula with a vibrant aesthetic that brightened utilitarian American kitchens.

What Is McKee Jadeite Refrigerator Dish Worth?

The typical price range for McKee Jadeite Refrigerator Dish is $85 - $95 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The presence of the original matching lid significantly increases the value toward the $95 range.
• Condition is critical; chips or 'flea bites' on the inner rim of the lid or dish will lower the market price.
• Clarity and consistency of the jadeite color, as swirling or uneven pigment can impact collector desirability.
• Authenticity of the McKee maker's mark, as unmarked pieces may be attributed to other manufacturers and valued differently.

How to Identify McKee Jadeite Refrigerator Dish?

• Look for the distinctive 'McK' inside a circle or 'McKee' embossed mark on the bottom of the dish or lid.
• Verify the specific milky green color, which should be opaque rather than translucent like some later reproductions.
• Check for the characteristic rectangular shape and matching heavy glass lid designed for airtight stacking.
• Examine the glass for a smooth, fire-polished finish typical of 1930s-1950s American production.

History of McKee Jadeite Refrigerator Dish

Jadeite glass, known for its distinctive milky green hue, gained popularity in American kitchens during the 1930s and 1940s. McKee Glass Company was a prominent producer of jadeite, offering a wide range of practical and decorative kitchenware. These refrigerator dishes were designed to keep food fresh and add a touch of color to the utilitarian kitchen of the era. The material's durability and opaque quality made it a household favorite.