The Timeless Edit
Anchor Hocking 'Coronation' Ruby Red Depression Glass Berry Bowl, circa 1937–1940, Made in USA
Depression glass was made to be affordable — pressed out by the millions during the 1930s and sold cheaply, or given away as premiums with petrol and flour. The fact that pieces like this one have survived nearly ninety years in brilliant, unchipped condition is a small miracle of domestic care. This Anchor Hocking Coronation double-handled berry bowl in Royal Ruby is one of those survivors — and in Australia, where American Depression glass had to travel a very long way to arrive at all, finding a piece this good locally is genuinely uncommon.
The Coronation pattern was introduced by Hocking Glass Co. in 1936 — named to commemorate the anticipated coronation of King Edward VIII, who abdicated before the ceremony ever took place. Production continued after the 1937 merger that created Anchor Hocking, and the embossed "H over Anchor" logo on the base confirms this piece belongs to that post-merger window, circa 1937–1940. The design is immediately recognisable: a scalloped rim border, a rayed sunburst base, and the two elegant scroll handles that make this the most sought-after form in the Coronation line. A considered addition to a Depression glass collection, or a striking centrepiece for a holiday table styled in deep jewel tones.
The Royal Ruby colour — a deep, transparent crimson — was Anchor Hocking's signature, and this bowl retains its full brilliance. There is one small straw mark (approximately 1cm) on the side panel near one of the handles, barely visible and entirely characteristic of 1930s automated glass press machinery: a surface fold caused when hot molten glass meets a cooler mold surface during pressing. It is a recognised manufacturing trait, not post-production damage, and does not affect the bowl's structural integrity or appraisal value.
Details
- Maker: Anchor Hocking Glass Corporation, Lancaster, Ohio, USA
- Pattern: Coronation (Royal Ruby)
- Era: Circa 1937–1940
- Colour: Deep transparent ruby red (Royal Ruby)
- Item type: Double-handled berry bowl / bonbon dish
- Dimensions: 16.5cm handle to handle; 13.5cm rim diameter; 5cm tall
- Weight: 376g
- Country of Origin: USA
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, fleabites, or cloudiness. The glass retains its full brilliant luster and rich transparency. One small straw mark (approx. 1cm) on the side panel near one of the handles — very difficult to see, and a recognised manufacturing characteristic of 1930s press-moulded glass rather than post-production damage. The "H over Anchor" maker's mark is clearly embossed on the base.
The photographs form part of the condition report — please review all images carefully before purchasing.
Care
Hand wash only in warm water with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Do not place in a dishwasher — heat and abrasive detergents can permanently etch or dull the Royal Ruby finish. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Every piece is carefully wrapped and packaged to ensure it arrives at your doorstep in perfect condition.
The Story of Anchor Hocking: American Glass with Timeless Appeal
Anchor Hocking holds an iconic place in American glassmaking history, creating beautiful, durable glassware that graced American homes for generations. Today, these pieces are treasured by collectors worldwide for their quality craftsmanship, distinctive designs, and the nostalgic connection they provide to mid-century American life.
A Legacy of American Manufacturing Excellence
Founded in 1905 in Lancaster, Ohio, Anchor Hocking Glass Company became one of America's most successful and beloved glass manufacturers. For over a century, the company produced an extraordinary range of glassware – from elegant Depression glass and Fire-King to practical kitchenware and decorative pieces – all crafted with the quality and innovation that made American glass renowned worldwide.
Throughout the 1930s to 1970s, Anchor Hocking's golden era, the company brought beauty and functionality to American households during both challenging and prosperous times. Their pieces weren't expensive crystal reserved for special occasions – they were beautiful, affordable glass that families could use daily, bringing colour, style, and durability to everyday life.
What Made Anchor Hocking Distinctive
Depression Glass Heritage: During the 1930s, Anchor Hocking produced some of America's most beloved Depression glass patterns. These colourful, affordable pieces brought brightness to homes during difficult economic times, proving that beauty could be accessible to everyone.
Fire-King Innovation: Anchor Hocking's Fire-King line, introduced in the 1940s, revolutionized kitchenware with heat-resistant glass that could go from oven to table. The distinctive jadeite green, turquoise blue, and other colours became icons of mid-century American kitchens.
Quality & Durability: Anchor Hocking glass was built to last. Their pieces could withstand daily use, temperature changes, and the demands of busy households, which is why so many have survived in excellent condition decades later.
Distinctive Colours & Patterns: From the soft pink and green of Depression glass to the vibrant jadeite and turquoise of Fire-King, from elegant clear pressed patterns to cheerful decorated pieces, Anchor Hocking's colour palette and design variety offered something for every taste.
American Design Identity: Anchor Hocking pieces embody mid-century American optimism and practicality. Their designs balanced functionality with style, creating glassware that was both useful and beautiful.
Why Anchor Hocking is Collectible Today
Decades after many lines were discontinued, Anchor Hocking glass has experienced remarkable appreciation among collectors and vintage enthusiasts. Here's what makes these pieces so sought-after:
Mid-Century Nostalgia: Anchor Hocking glass evokes powerful memories of grandmothers' kitchens, family dinners, and simpler times. These pieces represent American domestic life across generations, carrying stories and connections that transcend their material value.
Fire-King Phenomenon: Fire-King jadeite has become one of the most collectible categories of American vintage glass. The distinctive green colour and retro appeal have made these pieces highly sought-after, with rare items commanding significant prices.
Depression Glass Appeal: Anchor Hocking's Depression glass patterns – including "Mayfair," "Princess," and "Royal Ruby" – are prized by collectors for their beauty, historical significance, and the optimism they represented during challenging times.
Quality That Endures: The durability that made Anchor Hocking practical for daily use means many pieces have survived in excellent condition. Well-preserved examples showcase the quality of American manufacturing at its peak.
Design Versatility: Anchor Hocking pieces work beautifully in contemporary interiors. A jadeite mixing bowl or a Royal Ruby vase adds authentic vintage character and a pop of colour to modern spaces.
Accessible Collecting: While rare pieces command premium prices, Anchor Hocking remains relatively accessible. New collectors can build meaningful collections that celebrate American design history without prohibitive investment.
Sustainable Luxury: Collecting vintage Anchor Hocking aligns with circular-economy values. Each piece represents American craftsmanship and manufacturing heritage given new life, a conscious choice to cherish what already exists rather than consume new resources.
Identifying Authentic Anchor Hocking
Anchor Hocking pieces are typically marked with moulded or stamped marks on the base. Common marks include "Anchor Hocking," "AH," the anchor-over-H logo, or "Fire-King" for that specific line. Some pieces include pattern names or numbers. Earlier Depression glass pieces may be unmarked but can be identified by distinctive patterns and colours. The quality of moulding, weight, and characteristic colours (particularly the jadeite green and Royal Ruby red) are reliable indicators of authenticity.
Notable Patterns & Lines
Anchor Hocking's most collectible lines include Fire-King jadeite restaurant ware, turquoise blue pieces, and decorated patterns like "Wheat" and "Philbe." Depression glass patterns such as "Mayfair" (pink and blue), "Princess" (green and pink), "Royal Ruby" (deep red), and "Forest Green" are highly sought-after. The "Bubble" pattern in various colours, "Moonstone" with its opalescent hobnail design, and "Wexford" pressed glass are also popular with collectors.
Caring for Your Anchor Hocking Glass
These American treasures deserve thoughtful care. While Fire-King was designed for oven use, vintage pieces should be hand washed with warm water and mild detergent to preserve their condition. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, or extreme temperature changes. Handle carefully, particularly pieces with delicate edges or handles. Display away from direct sunlight to prevent colour fading, especially with pink and green Depression glass. Store with care, using soft padding between pieces. With proper care, your Anchor Hocking glass will continue its journey through homes for generations to come.
At The Timeless Edit, we celebrate Anchor Hocking glass as part of our commitment to circular luxury – honouring American craftsmanship, design heritage, and giving beautiful vintage pieces a cherished second chapter in homes that will treasure them.
