Wilsey's Blue Star Dairy Half Gallon Glass Milk Bottle
Wilsey's Blue Star Dairy (Buena Park, CA) · Collectibles & Antiques > Kitchenware > Milk Bottles
Era / Decade
1950s-1960s based on the pyroglazed (Applied Color Label) graphics and the list of Southern California cities.
Material
Heavy-duty clear glass with red pyroglaze (baked-on enamel) lettering.
Condition
Good. The glass appears clear without major chips; however, the red graphics show significant fading and scratching (scuffing) on the bottom half, which impacts the collectible value.
Demand Level
Moderate. Strongest demand is among local Southern California history collectors or 'Farmhouse' style decorators.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$10.00 - $18.00 (Due to the wear on the graphic/labeling)
Estimated Retail Value
$25.00 - $35.00 (comparable high-end reproduction or mint vintage bottle)
Comparable Sales
Mint condition Wilsey's bottles sell for $25-$40. Bottles with similar graphic wear typically sell for $10-$15 at antique malls or on eBay.
Description
Authentic vintage half-gallon glass milk bottle from Wilsey's Blue Star Dairy. Features red graphics listing California locations: Buena Park, Fullerton, La Habra, Placentia, Yorba Linda, and Pomona. Rectangular shape with rounded corners and an integrated handle grip for easy pouring. Great for farmhouse decor or local Southern California history collectors.
Key Features
Regional California collectible; Applied Color Label (ACL) in red; desirable half-gallon size with built-in handle; mid-century dairy advertising.
Authenticity Indicators
Embossed 'HALF GALLON' and 'REG. CAL.' markings on the glass; thick, heavy construction consistent with mid-century dairy production. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Significant wear and paint loss to the red graphics, particularly on the lower text. Surface scratches throughout from industrial use. Missing the original cap.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay for the widest reach to regional bottle collectors; Etsy for vintage home decor shoppers; Facebook Marketplace in the Orange County/Pomona area to avoid shipping glass.
Selling Tips
Highlight the specific California cities in the title for SEO. Use a dark background when photographing to make the red lettering and glass contours pop. Ship using double-boxing method with plenty of bubble wrap to prevent breakage.