Fire-King oven glass was originally made by the Anchor Hocking Glass Company in the United States, sometime around the 1940s. The glass was produced in an incredibly durable and heat resistant form, making it popular for use in bakeware, ovenware, cooking dishes, and candleholders.
Over the years, due to changing production methods and raw materials, the exact formula and manufacture process of Fire-King glass has evolved. Anchor Hocking, who oil Fire-King glass, continues to make oven glass, firing it in molds that were first used in the early 1940s.
Many collectors keep an eye out for vintage pieces of Fire-King glass, as the original products were made to be incredibly hard-wearing and carry a unique look.
What Fire-King glass is valuable?
Fire-King glass is a type of glassware created by the Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation. It was primarily produced in the 1940s and 1950s, although the company did produce some Fire-King pieces up until 1983.
It is well known for its clear glass pieces decorated with prints of flowers and other cheerful designs. Fire-King pieces are usually made of a relatively thick, durable glass that make them more resistant to thermal shock than most other common kitchenware.
Because of its durability and vintage aesthetic, Fire-King glass is highly valued by collectors and vintage enthusiasts. While common pieces can be found at low prices, certain rare pieces can fetch hundreds of dollars.
Certain colors, patterns, and shapes can also significantly increase the value of a piece. Pieces featuring the “swirl” motif are amongst the most sought after due to their bright colors and unique shapes.
Many rare Fire-King pieces are featured in museums and private collections all over the world.
How can you tell a vintage Fire-King?
Vintage Fire-King can be identified by its manufacturer logo, which features either a circle or an oval with a highly stylized, swirly FK. In the early 1950s, the logo also included the words Fire King Oven Ware.
Later, the picture of a flame was added to the logo. The brand name Fire-King was used between 1945 and 1969 and it was usually stamped on the bottom of vintage pieces.
Other identifying marks found on Fire-King pieces include the maker’s name, such as Anchor Hocking, Hazel Atlas, Federal, or Jeannette, as well as either a repeating shield or number motif. The color, form, and glaze of the pieces can help to determine their vintage, as well.
Fire-King pieces from the 1950s and ’60s tend to have less retro-styled features and more modern shapes and designs. Some pieces may also have “retired” logos, which will indicate an earlier production date–for example, a plain FK circle or oval with no flame indicates a pre-1964 production date.
Finally, familiarizing yourself with the various styles of Fire-King produced between 1945 and 1969 can help you to accurately identify vintage pieces. Patterns such as Milk Glass, Cobalt Blue, Peach Lustre, White Diamonique or Jade-ite will easily identify vintage pieces.
How do I know if my Fire-King is vintage?
To determine if your Fire-King is vintage, you’ll need to consider a few factors. While there is no one definitive answer for this, here are some key points to help you narrow down your search.
First, look at the color and pattern of the Fire-King. Many vintage pieces feature bright and vibrant colors, while modern pieces are typically lighter and more pastel-like. Additionally, many vintage pieces have smooth, glossy glazes on the bottom that often have small engraved writing on them.
Second, research the manufacturer’s mark. Many vintage Fire-King pieces feature the famous King logo marked on the bottom, while modern pieces typically feature a JJ&F or J. J & F. logo. Third, consider the shape and design of your Fire-King.
Vintage pieces often feature intricate patterns, raised bumps, and other distinctive features that make them stand out.
Finally, consult an appraiser or collector who specializes in vintage Fire-King pieces. With the help of an experienced collector or appraiser, you can determine if your Fire-King is really vintage. If you take all these steps, you should be able to come to a better conclusion as to whether or not your Fire-King is vintage.
Is all Fire-King marked?
No, not all Fire-King products are marked. Fire-King was one of the most widely produced lines of glass kitchenware produced by the Jeanette Glass Company from the 1940s through the 1970s. Many pieces of Fire-King glassware do not have an identifying mark or are identified by the pattern name etched or embossed on the piece.
Some of the more common pieces of Fire-King glassware include their classic Milestone, DuraTone, Pristine, Platonite, and Meadow Green patterns. Fire-King produced a variety of kitchenware, including mugs, plates, bowls, goblets, cake plates, casserole dishes, and more.
While many pieces of Fire-King glassware do not have identifying marks, some of their more well-known pieces may have a “Fire-King” etched or stamped on the bottom, with the Jeanette Glass Company logo present alongside.
Which is older Fire-King or Pyrex?
Fire-King is older than Pyrex. Fire-King was first introduced by the Anchor Hocking Glass Company in 1942 and is considered one of the most popular forms of glassware from the mid-century modern era.
Pyrex, on the other hand, was created by Corning Inc. in 1915 and is most famous for its clear bakeware. While Fire-King is considered to be the more collectible of the two products due to its age, Pyrex has become very popular in recent years as a collectible item as well.
Both brands are highly sought after, making them both worth collecting.
When did Fire-King stop production?
Fire-King stopped production in the late 1970s due to the decline in popularity of glassware in the US. It was originally founded by Anchor Hocking in the 1940s and soon became a popular brand for its durable and timeless style.
Production initially shifted from the US to abroad in an effort to cut costs and reduce prices, but eventually the demand for Fire-King products waned altogether. Glassware trends began to favor new materials like plastics and Pyrex, and Fire-King was forced to cease production and move onto other ventures.
When did Anchor Hocking stop making Fire-King?
Anchor Hocking stopped producing Fire-King glassware in 1998. Fire-King had been in production for more than forty years, and was originally produced in the 1940s until it was retired in 1998. Anchor Hocking originally produced its Fire-King brand as an casual, everyday drinking glassware and baking ware.
Today, Fire-King glassware is highly sought after by collectors and is a popular icon in vintage glassware. Fire-King items are still actively sought after by fans of its unique styling, simplicity, and durability.
Fire-King pieces are often considered a staple of the mid-20th century homeware, and the brand is still recognizable today.