Vintage Federal Glass Veggie Vegetable Refrigerator Dish with Lid
Federal Glass Company · Kitchenware > Vintage Glassware
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (Depression/Post-War Era)
Material
Pressed clear flint glass; heavy-duty thick construction typical of early-to-mid 20th century kitchenware.
Condition
Very Good. The glass appears clear without significant clouding (sickness). The lid embossing is sharp. Common wear to look for are small flea bites or 'felling' along the inner rim of the lid.
Demand Level
Moderate. Steady demand from vintage kitchenware collectors and those moving away from plastic storage.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $35.00 (Low: $15 for just the dish or lid; Mid: $25 for the complete set; High: $35 if absolute mint condition).
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $8.00 (original mid-century department store pricing adjusted for inflation is roughly $25 today).
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for complete Federal veggie dishes range from $22 to $32 plus shipping. Lids alone often sell for $12 to $15 to collectors looking to complete a set.
Description
This is a classic mid-century Federal Glass square refrigerator storage dish. It features a stunning embossed vegetable motif on the lid including carrots, tomatoes, and onions. The sides of the dish have a ribbed/fluted texture typical of the era's utilitarian aesthetic. Designed for leftover storage in early electric refrigerators.
Key Features
Highly collectible 'Depression Era' style functionality; Embossed vegetable lid remains popular for cottagecore and farmhouse decor; Stackable design; Made in the USA.
Authenticity Indicators
Features the indented 'F' in a shield logo on the bottom (Federal Glass mark). High confidence in authenticity; these are rarely reproduced in clear glass.
Flaws to Note
Check for 'flea bites' (tiny chips) on the corners and the inner seating rim of both the lid and base. Look for 'glass sickness' (permanent cloudiness from dishwasher use).
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for collectors worldwide), or Facebook Marketplace (to avoid high shipping risks).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Cottagecore', 'Farmhouse', 'MCM', and 'Depression Glass'. Wrap extremely well in bubble wrap as these are heavy and can shatter if dropped. Photograph with a dark background to make the embossed vegetables pop.