Hall China per Montgomery Ward Blue Ceramic Refrigerator Dish with Lid (Model 5119)
The Hall China Co. (Made exclusively for Montgomery Ward & Co.) · Kitchenware > Vintage Stoneware & Storage
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (Dating based on the specific Montgomery Ward backstamp and Art Deco-influenced industrial design)
Material
Heavyweight glazed stoneware/ceramic; high-quality vitreous china known for durability and heat resistance
Condition
Good to Very Good. The glaze retains high shine and the color is vibrant. There is visible shelf wear on the unglazed bottom base. A small chip is visible on the rim of the adjacent matching bowl (right side of image), but the main covered dish appears free of major cracks.
Demand Level
Moderate. There is a consistent niche market for vintage refrigerator ware (fridgies) and Hall China enthusiasts, particularly those collecting Art Deco or Depression-era kitchen items.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00 (Current market range for the set including lid)
Estimated Retail Value
$10.00 - $15.00 (Historical adjusted value)
Comparable Sales
Similar single Hall refrigerator dishes typically sell for $20-$30; complete sets with lids in rare colors like this blue can reach $40-$50 on sites like Etsy.
Description
Vintage Hall China for Montgomery Ward refrigerator dish in a striking mid-century periwinkle blue. This rectangular storage container features a matching recessed-handle lid and a scalloped base detail. These were originally designed for 'leftover' storage in early electric refrigerators. The backstamp clearly identifies the maker and the 5119 model number.
Key Features
Exclusive regional manufacture for Montgomery Ward, iconic 'Hall' quality, sought-after blue colorway, complete with original lid, Art Deco styling cues.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. Authentic black ink backstamp 'Made Exclusively for Montgomery Ward & Co. BY The Hall China Co. Made in U.S.A.' is clearly visible and consistent with mid-century production.
Flaws to Note
Minor flea bites or pinhead-sized glaze pops (common in this era), shelf wear/darkening on the unglazed bottom rim, and a small chip on the separate circular bowl shown in frame.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy. These platforms cater best to vintage collectors who search specifically by brand and model number. Facebook Marketplace is a secondary option for local vintage enthusiasts.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Vintage Mid-Century,' 'Hall China Refrigerator Dish,' and 'Art Deco Kitchen.' Highlight that it is a 'pantry-to-table' item. Package extremely well with double-boxing to prevent breakage, as these are heavy and brittle.