Whitall Tatum Specimen Jar Value Guide

The Whitall Tatum Specimen Jar is a cornerstone of early American medical history, manufactured by the renowned Millville, New Jersey glassworks. These cylindrical vessels were the industry standard for museums and medical schools, prized for their precision-ground glass lids that created an airtight seal for biological preservation.

What Is Whitall Tatum Specimen Jar Worth?

The typical price range for Whitall Tatum Specimen Jar is $110 - $120 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical integrity of the ground glass seal, as chips or heavy wear significantly reduce the airtight functionality and value.
• The condition of the metal wire bail, specifically looking for original components without excessive rust or structural snapping.
• Glass clarity and the absence of 'sick glass' or permanent cloudiness caused by long-term chemical storage.
• Market demand for specific sizes, with larger or unusually proportioned cylindrical jars often fetching the $110-$120 price range.

How to Identify Whitall Tatum Specimen Jar?

• Check for the distinct ground glass finish on both the inner rim of the jar and the contact surface of the lid.
• Verify the presence of the original steel wire bail closure system used to secure the lid during the 1890-1910 era.
• Look for the characteristic clear, heavy glass construction typical of Whitall Tatum & Company's industrial-grade apothecary production.
• Inspect the base for specific manufacturer markings or mold numbers associated with the Millville, New Jersey factory.

History of Whitall Tatum Specimen Jar

Whitall Tatum & Company was one of the first glass manufacturers in the United States, operating out of Millville, New Jersey. While they produced a vast array of apothecary and fruit jars, their ground-glass lid specimen jars became industry standards for medical schools and museums for preserving biological samples due to their airtight seal.