Do you have a vintage fiestaware red carafe? There are several for sale right now. Prices range from $50.00 to $200.00. What’s the difference between the two? Is one really worth 3 times as much as the other?
These vintage red fiestaware pieces were produced for a short time in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s. These red carafes measure 9 ¼ “ by 7 1/8” by 6 1/8 “ and hold about 6 ½ cups of fluid. The main base of the carafe for the more expensive one is in overall excellent condition free from chips, cracks, etc. The carafe that is $100 less has two small chips. The more expensive one comes with the stopper that is also in good condition with the exception of a chip on the finial. It appears as though a prior owner tried to repair it but was missing a small piece. It also has a few lighter glaze misses on it. The cork is in great shape and in tact with a little discoloration at the bottom. The less expensive carafe doesn’t come with a stopper, but the stopper is listed separately.
The lid comes with a cork attached. Before buying, check the cork and make sure it doesn’t show any damage. If you are buying online, have the seller take a picture of the cork before buying. The carafe holds 6 1/2 cups and Ivory is the hardest color to find.
So, which is a better buy? It depends on what you are looking for and what it is worth to you. I would buy the more expensive carafe with the stopper. A piece that is still in perfect condition after about 70 will continue to grow in value. There are lots of chipped pieces out there.
The red carafe for $50.00 is still a good buy and worth considering….if you are going to keep it and it is for you, it will be a great buy. For resale in 10 years, I would pick the other one.