History

• Depression glass was made starting in the 1920s, before the Great Depression began. However, the bulk of this glass was created and distributed during the Depression and into the 1950s. The clear or colorful pieces were frequently given away as prizes in oatmeal containers, as well as by gas stations, movie theaters and restaurants to encourage sales. It was also prevalent and five and dime shops.
  
  

Significance

• Depression glass was mass produced, which made it exceedingly affordable. This was very important during the Depression, when people were painfully aware of every nickel and dime they spent. The fact that pieces were given away by retailers and manufacturers of everyday household products is noteworthy. The reasonably priced glass pieces helped to boost the ailing economy by encouraging consumers to shop at dime stores, eat out or purchase laundry detergent.
  
  

Function

• Depression glass was often marketed as special occasion dinnerware or glassware. Decorative punch bowls and glasses in elegant designs were touted as ideal for parties or holiday champagne service. However, most consumers did not adhere to this practice. Some of the colorful Depression glass was used to decorate homes, sitting on shelves and tables, sometimes holding fruit or cut flowers. Most families, though, enjoyed the glass as their everyday dishes and drinking glasses.
  
  

Types

• Depression glass came in many colors, including amber, blue, green, pink and yellow, as well as clear glass. The colored glass was much more popular and bore whimsical names such as "Flamingo Pink", which differed by manufacturers. As there were several makers of Depression glass, there are dozens of patterns, styles and pieces. Pieces included everything from dinner plates and glasses to candy dishes, candlesticks and cream and sugar sets.
  
  

Considerations

• Depression glass is a highly sought after collectible. Because of this, there are many reproduction pieces on the market. Authentic Depression glass, because of its inexpensive mass production, is known for having various flaws, from bubbles to misshapenness. Repro Depression glass will typically be "flawless," which can tip off a keen shopper. Pink glass is the most preferred color and therefore more difficult to find. While some collectors enjoy the challenge of completing an entire set of a particular pattern, others choose to collect like pieces of any pattern or color, such as candy bowls or ashtrays