Phillips Milk of Magnesia Cobalt Blue Bottle Value Guide

The Phillips Milk of Magnesia cobalt blue bottle is a staple of American apothecary history, originating from Charles H. Phillips' 1873 invention. These bottles are prized by collectors for their striking deep blue hue, which was originally designed to protect the medicinal contents from sunlight degradation.

What Is Phillips Milk of Magnesia Cobalt Blue Bottle Worth?

The typical price range for Phillips Milk of Magnesia Cobalt Blue Bottle is $20 - $40 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the glass, including the presence of chips, cracks, or 'sickness' (cloudiness from burial).
• The presence of the original metal screw cap or paper label, which significantly increases market value.
• Bottle size variations, as smaller sample sizes or unusually large apothecary versions can be more rare.
• Clarity and depth of the cobalt blue pigment, with more vibrant examples commanding higher prices.

How to Identify Phillips Milk of Magnesia Cobalt Blue Bottle?

• Look for the distinct deep cobalt blue glass color characteristic of the 1930s-1950s production era.
• Check for the embossed 'Phillips Milk of Magnesia' lettering typically found on the side or base of the bottle.
• Examine the bottle for a screw-top or cork-top finish, which helps narrow down the specific decade of manufacture.
• Verify the presence of a 'Made in USA' mark or specific glass manufacturer symbols on the bottom.

History of Phillips Milk of Magnesia Cobalt Blue Bottle

Phillips Milk of Magnesia was invented in 1873 by Charles H. Phillips. The distinctive cobalt blue bottles were commonly used for packaging various medicinal products in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The vibrant blue color was often believed to protect the contents from sunlight, though it also served as a branding element, making these bottles easily recognizable and highly collectible today.