Mixed Collection of Ruby Red Glassware including Anchor Hocking Royal Ruby, Viking Glass Bud Vase, and Pilgrim Swan
Various (Anchor Hocking, Viking Glass, Pilgrim Glass Corp) · Collectibles & Antiques > Kitchenware & Glassware
Era / Decade
Mid-Century Modern, primarily 1940s-1960s. The Royal Ruby pitcher and bowls are classic 1940s-50s Anchor Hocking; the hobnail bud vase is typical of Viking Glass from the 1960s.
Material
Ruby red glass. The pitcher features a clear glass applied handle. The color is achieved by adding gold chloride or selenium to the glass melt during manufacturing.
Condition
Very Good. The glass appears vibrant with no visible chips or cracks from the photo. Minor surface scratches (shelf wear) on the bottom of the bowls and pitcher are expected for this era.
Demand Level
Strong. Demand peaks during the Q4 holiday season (November/December) because of the festive red color, but MCM glass collectors buy year-round.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$120.00 - $185.00 (Lot value). Individual highlights: Pitcher ($35-45), Bud Vase ($25-35), Swan ($30-40), Bowls ($5-8 each), Stemware ($8-12 each).
Estimated Retail Value
$250.00 - $350.00 (Total replacement cost if bought individually from specialized antique retailers today)
Comparable Sales
Individual Royal Ruby pitchers recently sold for $38 on eBay. Sets of 4 Royal Ruby bowls average $25. Viking Ruby Hobnail vases consistently sell for $30+ plus shipping.
Description
A stunning 15-piece collection of vintage Ruby Red glassware. This lot includes one large round pitcher with a clear applied handle, a Viking Glass hobnail bud vase, a hand-blown glass swan decorative piece, six nesting fruit/cereal bowls, and six coordinate footed stemware glasses. The deep, rich oxblood red color is consistent across the pieces, making for a perfect holiday table setting or MCM display collection.
Key Features
Highly collectible 'Royal Ruby' colorway; Mid-Century Modern appeal; iconic Viking Glass hobnail pattern; includes rare decorative hand-blown swan; excellent color matching across different manufacturers.
Authenticity Indicators
Anchor Hocking Royal Ruby is often unmarked but recognizable by the specific 'honeycomb' or smooth patterns and clear handles. Viking Glass bud vase features the distinct footed hobnail base. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Potential 'flea bites' on the rims of the bowls; light scuffing on the base of the pitcher; check for glass sickness (cloudiness) which can happen with older silica compositions, though these look clear.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy is best for 'vintage decor' enthusiasts at higher prices. eBay is best for individual pieces to collectors looking to complete sets. Facebook Marketplace is recommended for the whole lot to avoid the high risk of shipping breakage.
Selling Tips
Backlight the glass in photos to show the depth of the ruby color. Use words like 'MCM', 'Ruby Red', and 'Holiday Decor' in titles. If shipping, double-box every single piece—glass transit breakage is the #1 profit killer for this item type. Consider splitting the swan and bud vase from the utility drinkware to maximize total profit.