WHAT’S IT WORTH?

What is it?

An American 9 1/2” carnival glass bowl by Fenton in the Coin Dot pattern, circa 1920.

What’s its history?

At carnivals in the early 1900s, shiny plates such as these were used in penny tosses. A person would throw a penny; if it landed in the plate, the plate was the prize. Later, other pieces of carnival glass were given away at gas stations or sold at five-and-dime stores.

How was it made?

Many companies in the United States manufactured this pressed and iridescent glass. Unlike costly art glass, its luster was created cheaply by spraying a sodium solution on the surface of the glass before firing it. It was also the last hand-shaped glass mass-produced in America.

Why is it popular?

The glass is unusual. It has opalescent colors--marigold, green, aqua and peach--as well as different shapes and sizes.

Is it scarce?

Because it was so inexpensive, people used it, broke it and threw it away. Many of the dishes were broken when pennies were tossed at them.

Norm Wheatcroft of Crofton Antiques and Collectibles in Costa Mesa says 99% of carnival glass was destroyed.

What is it worth today?

The Fenton Coin Dot bowl sells for $49.

What should you look for?

Watch out for new glass. Old molds of carnival glass were found, and reproductions were made that deflated the carnival glass market a few years ago. Reproductions have a very high sheen and don’t have the aged patina of the old glass.

The most valuable carnival glass pieces are the ones for which the molds were lost. Color intensity is also important.

Where can you find it?

Antique stores and flea markets.

How can I find out more?

“The Standard Encyclopedia of Carnival Glass” by Bill Edwards (Collector Books, $25). General collectibles books and collectors clubs also have information.