Viking Glass Mushroom Paperweight Value Guide

Produced by the Viking Glass Company in New Martinsville, West Virginia, these mushrooms are iconic examples of 1970s botanical-inspired decor. They are highly collectible due to their distinct 'bullicante' effect, which showcases the technical skill of American glassmakers from this era.

What affects the value of Viking Glass Mushroom Paperweight?

• Pristine condition of the glass cap, as surface scratches or flea bites significantly reduce the $70-$77 market value.
• The precision and symmetry of the internal bubble grid, with more uniform patterns commanding higher prices.
• Clarity of the glass, as yellowing or 'sick glass' syndrome can detract from its collectibility.
• Presence of original foil labels, which can push the value toward the top of the $77 range.

How to Identify Viking Glass Mushroom Paperweight?

• Look for the signature 'controlled bubble' pattern, which should be uniform and trapped specifically within the stem.
• Examine the base for a smooth, fire-polished finish typical of Viking Glass manufacturing from the 1970s.
• Verify the clear art glass quality, ensuring there are no unintended inclusions or cloudiness outside of the intentional bubble design.
• Check for the specific mushroom silhouette featuring a wide, rounded cap and a thick, bubble-filled pedestal base.

History of Viking Glass Mushroom Paperweight

Produced by the Viking Glass Company of New Martinsville, West Virginia, these mushrooms were part of a larger trend of botanical-inspired glass decor in the 1960s and 70s. The 'controlled bubble' or bullicante effect was achieved by using a spiked mold to trap air within the molten glass during the blowing process, creating a uniform pattern.