In the middle of a plastic pollution crisis, it’s nice to see that so many people still hang on to their reusable containers (or recycle glassware like jars, etc.). But as it turns out, your stash of older-than-you-might-like-to-admit containers could be quite valuable!
How valuable? Well, vintage pyrex dishes have been selling for $1,800 up to as much as $3,000+. So before you decide to donate or throw any of your old glassware, think twice!
Vintage Pyrex Dishes
Pyrex was introduced in 1908, by Corning Inc. Its multifunctional use and ability to withstand high heat is what has made these dishes so popular for home cooks over centuries.
You may remember seeing them in your mom’s or grandma’s kitchen cupboard. Pyrex dishes are those colorful nesting bowl sets and pretty patterned casserole dishes. There are even Facebook groups for dedicated collectors! On Instagram, there is #pyrexjunkie hashtag where you’ll find thousands and thousands of posts all about these vintage dishes.
The Pyrex Obsession
Maybe even more surprising about this high-quality product (aside from their value and nostalgia factor) is that people still use them regularly for baking or cooking.
“I think it will always remain collectible, just because of the durability of it, these bowls can be carried on through five generations and still look as good and be as useful as they were 100 years ago.” Michael Barber, author of the Pyrex Passion blog
How Much Is Your Pyrex Worth?
Here’s a look at some of the most popular vintage pyrex patterns found online through eBay and Etsy. If you have any of these in your own kitchen, you’re in luck, because they are in high demand.
1. Pyrex Blue Snowflake Garland Lot, charming glass, tabletop, Instant set, Country Chic, Assorted dishes, cookware, bakeware, Pyrex delight, white – current asking price: $4,050.22
2. Rare Pyrex pink stems Promotional Casserole dish 043 1.5 QUART WITH LID – current asking price: $911.39
3. Vintage Pyrex Starburst Casserole Dish 575 B with Lid and Cradle- current asking price: $651.00
4. Rare Pyrex Orange Butterprint Cinderella nesting bowls – current asking price: $641.29
5. Pyrex Pink Butterprint 3 Piece Bake-Serve-Store Casserole set with Matching lids; #471, #472 & #473 – current asking price: $607.53
6. JaJ Pyrex Duck Egg Blue and White Gooseberry Patterned Bowls in great condition – USA Size- 442-443-444 – current asking price: $634.22
7. Rare JAJ Pyrex Red Hearts Danish Pattern Round Casserole Dish 509 0 – current asking price: $387.16
8. 8 Vintage Pyrex Pixie Au Gratin 700 Dish Red Revel Regency Copper Filigree – current asking price: $357.40
9. 5 Vintage Pyrex Delphite Blue Refrigerator Dishes & Ribbed Shaker – current asking price: $350.24
10. 5 Vintage Pink Pyrex Refrigerator Dishes & Pink Stripes Bowl – current asking price: $325.49
How Can I Find Pricing/Value For My Vintage Pyrex?
So after catching a glimpse of these staggering asking prices, we bet you want a piece of the action. Well, we’re here to help you with that! Below are 10 rules/tips to keep in mind when determining the value of your pyrex pieces:
Rule # 1 – Any Collectible is Worth What Someone Else Is Willing To Pay
For most people who collect, they collect because they actually appreciate owning the collectible. For sellers, selling a collectible for under its “book value” doesn’t always get buyers.
Rule #2 – Complete Sets or Original Boxes is a Bonus
If you happen to have the packaging, that’s great, if not, move on to rule #3
Rule # 3 – The Condition
Condition plays a huge role in how much a person is willing to pay. Check to see if your pyrex is free of cracks, chips and that the color patterns are unblemished.
Rule # 4 – Colors and Patterns
Pink and aqua are among the most popular for colors. Pyrex patterns are classified as Standard or Promotional. Promotional Pyrex patterns can be quite expensive. In fact, the Pyrex pattern that’s the most in-demand can go for upwards of $4,000 and is called Lucky in Love. If you ever find or have one of these pieces, you’re lucky indeed.
Other Pyrex patterns are called Gooseberry, Butterprint, Friendship, and Snowflake.
Rule # 5 – Promotional Pyrex Items
As previously mentioned, keep an eye out for promotional items. These pyrex pieces are usually rarer because they were made for special one-time promotions.
Rule # 6 – Compare Prices
Check listings on eBay or Etsy. By searching for your pyrex, you’ll be able to get a general idea of how much people are paying for them.
Rule # 7 – Online & Garage Sales
If you don’t own any vintage Pyrex yourself, keep an eye out online or garage sales.
Rule # 8 – Check the Year
Pyrex dishes made between1915, and 1970 are the priciest because up until 1970, the Pyrex company used a more durable type of glass (making them harder to break)
Rule # 9 – Know The Different Types
Pyrex dishes come in various style: casserole dishes, space savers, chip n dip sets, nesting mixing bowls, refrigerator sets, etc. There’s also the famous Cinderella bowls, which feature a spout on either side for easier pouring.
Rule #10 – Obscure = Better
The sudden surge in popularity makes some Pyrex collectors wary. They don’t want demand driving the value of Pyrex up. (the more obscure, the better).
Lastly
Do some research of your own to find out the year and style of your Pyrex, because after all, you just might be sitting on a goldmine. And for those of us who don’t have quite the right model, we still give you a kudos for doing your part to keep the earth healthy 🙂