Fire-King Philbe Vegetable Medallion Refrigerator Dish
Anchor Hocking (Fire-King) · Kitchenware > Vintage Glassware
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (Depression-era style through early mid-century)
Material
Pressed clear glass; thick-walled heat-resistant borosilicate style
Condition
Very Good. The lid clarity is high with minimal clouding. Common issues for this piece include 'roughness' or flea bites along the inner rim of the lid and the base flange.
Demand Level
Moderate to Strong. Vintage refrigerator glass ('fridgeies') has a dedicated following among 'Grandmacore' and MCM collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $25 | Mid: $45 | High: $65 (Value heavily depends on having both the lid and base in chip-free condition)
Estimated Retail Value
$5.00 - $8.00 (original 1940s price adjusted for inflation is roughly $35.00 today)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sold listings for clear vegetable-top Fire-King square dishes range from $35 to $60 plus shipping depending on size and absence of chips.
Description
Authentic vintage Fire-King clear glass refrigerator dish with lid. Features the iconic embossed vegetable motif on the lid including carrots, celery, tomatoes, and leeks. The base and lid sides feature a classic vertical ribbed or 'Philbe' style pattern. Approximately 4x4 or 5x5 square design, originally part of a nestable set.
Key Features
Highly collectible Fire-King brand; rare 'Vegetable' embossed lid; stackable functionality; mid-century kitchen aesthetic; complete set with original lid.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The 'Philbe' ribbing and specific vegetable relief are signature Anchor Hocking designs. Some pieces are unmarked, while others have the 'Fire-King' script logo embossed on the bottom of the base.
Flaws to Note
Check for 'flea bites' (tiny chips) along the inner edges where the lid meets the base. Look for 'dishwasher haze' or cloudiness which cannot be removed. Permanent scratches from metal utensils may be present on the bottom.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage kitchenware), eBay (widest audience), or high-end Antique Malls. Facebook Marketplace is viable but likely results in a lower sale price.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Depraisal Glass', 'Fridgeie', and 'Farmhouse Decor'. Photograph against a dark background to make the embossed glass details pop. Pack with extreme care using double-boxing as these are prone to shattering in transit.