Vaseline Chesebrough New York Jar Value Guide

This antique glass jar represents the early commercial success of Robert Chesebrough's petroleum jelly, which he patented in 1872. These early 20th-century vessels are highly collectible for their distinct embossed typography and their historical connection to the evolution of American drugstores.

What Is Vaseline Chesebrough New York Jar Worth?

The typical price range for Vaseline Chesebrough New York Jar is $15 - $20 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 burial.
• Clarity and depth of the embossed lettering, as sharper strikes are more desirable to collectors.
• The presence of an original lid or remnants of a paper label can increase the value beyond the $15-$20 range.
• Glass color variations, though clear is standard for this specific Chesebrough era.

How to Identify Vaseline Chesebrough New York Jar?

• Look for the specific embossed text 'TRADE MARK VASELINE CHESEBROUGH NEW YORK' directly on the glass body.
• Examine the glass for a clear, slightly thick composition characteristic of 1910-1930 manufacturing.
• Verify the presence of a wide mouth and threaded or cork-top rim consistent with early petroleum jelly packaging.
• Check for authentic manufacturing seams that run up the sides, indicating machine-made production from the early 20th century.

History of Vaseline Chesebrough New York Jar

Vaseline, or petroleum jelly, was discovered by Robert Chesebrough in 1859. He noticed oil rig workers using a gooey residue to heal their cuts and burns. By 1872, he had patented the process of making petroleum jelly and began selling it as 'Vaseline'. The Chesebrough Manufacturing Company produced a variety of jars and tins for their popular product, with glass jars like this one being common in the early 20th century for drugstore and household use. These jars often featured embossed lettering, a common practice before widespread paper labeling.