Vintage Akro Agate Shell & Flower Creamer and Open Sugar Bowl Set
Akro Agate Company · Collectibles & Antiques > Kitchenware > Glassware
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (Early Post-War era)
Material
Opaque Slag Glass (Opal Glass) with hand-painted cold-paint enamel and gold gilt accents.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The glass bodies appear structurally sound without major chips, but there is noticeable wear to the hand-painted gold and green highlights, which is common for 'cold paint' applications of this era.
Demand Level
Moderate. There is a loyal 'niche' market for Akro Agate and slag glass collectors, though demand for small 'dust collector' antiques has softened compared to functional mid-century modern pieces.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (Low: $20, Mid: $35, High: $50 depending on buyer interest)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $60.00 (Adjusted for modern collectible gift shop pricing)
Comparable Sales
Matched sets in similar condition typically sell for $30-$40 on eBay. Individual pieces often fetch $15-$20 each. Pristine sets with 100% paint retention can reach $60+.
Description
A charming two-piece vintage breakfast set featuring an footed creamer and matching open sugar bowl. Made of kremekola or custard-style slag glass by the Akro Agate Company. The pattern features embossed floral sprigs and scrolling leaf motifs, highlighted with original green and gold paint. The pieces feature a scalloped shell-like rim and a beaded pedestal base. Originally marketed as vanity sets or children's tea sets, these are now highly sought by mid-century glass collectors.
Key Features
Highly collectible Akro Agate brand name; desirable embossed floral and scroll pattern; original cold-painted accents; beautiful opaque glass quality that glows slightly under UV light if it contains manganese/selenium.
Authenticity Indicators
Akro Agate items often feature the 'Crow flying through an A' logo on the bottom, though some small pieces were unmarked. The specific shell-and-floral mold and texture of the slag glass are signature to their 1940s production. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Fading and rubbing on the gold gilt and green paint (non-fired enamel); minor surface scratches on the interior bottom; potential shelf wear on the footed base.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for glass collectors searching by brand), or high-end Antique Malls. Facebook Marketplace is less ideal due to the specific nature of the collectible.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Akro Agate', 'Slag Glass', 'Custard Glass', and 'Victorian Style'. Highlight that they are a matched set. Take photos against a dark background to make the opaque white glass pop. Mention if the glass fluoresces under a blacklight, as this attracts 'glow glass' collectors.