porcelain and the tramps - king of the world

I would like to take this time and hope to help buyers be aware of what they may or may not be buying when they purchase an item that is like or marked Federal Glass.

We are not professional collectors, but hope what we have learned by looking and reading will help others that enjoy the same hobby and passion that we do for old, vintage, or antique glass.

Federal Glass is one of my favorites to collect and over the years, I have seen many things that are "real" and many that are what many think are "fake".

Until we went out and researched the different glass companies, we were lucky to know what any makers mark on any glass piece meant. The symbol for Federal Glass is the Shield with an F in the center. Very recognizable.

With the research we have done, we learned that Federal Glass bought many molds from other glass makers, so we might see an item done from another company and think it is a fake or reproduction of a Federal Glass item, but, as we have learned, it isn't necessarily a bad fake or a fake at all, it may be something Federal Glass itself bought a mold of from another glass company.

Some history about Federal Glass:

Federal Glass was started in 1900 by George and Robert J Beatty. When the company was started, it only advertised tumblers. After a few years, they expanded to jars and bottles. By the 1940's and 1950's, they were making full tableware sets of colored pressed glass.

In 1980, Federal Glass was closed down.

I am writing this so that you can make sure you do your research. The image I have attached is of a Federal Glass Pearl Lustre Stein that is marked and another Stein that is unmarked. They are identical except for the makers mark of the shield with the F in it. In case you were wondering, the Stein on the left is the real Federal Glass example, the one on the right has no makers mark.

There are many resources on the internet that will help you learn more, but this is a small guide to help you see that to be sure, look for the Federal Glass mark.

On the internet search, simply type in Federal Glass Encyclopedia. You will be happy with what you find and learn.

One thing we have learned with the buying we have done, is research and being informed at the point of purchase is so important. It is very easy to "think" something is what you want it to be, just to find out when you get home that is isn't.

Please continue our tradition, go out and shop, have fun and educate others as you learn.