Due to their variety, collecting hen on nest dishes can be a lot of fun. They are not the absolute easiest collectible to find, but not the hardest either.
About 250 different kinds of glass hen-covered dishes have been made by different glass companies over the last 150 years or so. It’s called an animal dish, hen in a basket, hen on a nest, or the slightly cheaper “hen on nest.” Most collectors use this term, “hen on nest. ”.
Glass dishes with a hen on a nest on top have been made in lengths from less than 2 inches to 8 inches. Aside from the different sizes, the glass comes in a lot of different types and colors, such as carnival glass, pressed glass, Victorian glass, lead crystal, milk glass, and more.
Prices vary. Some are less than $20. Most are less than $100. But some of the rare Hen on Nest dishes can sell for a lot of money. In 2009, a Fenton hen on nest with combined yellow, blue and green sold at auction for $2500. It had an estimate of $100-200.
We have quite a few hen on nest dishes in the Midtown Mercantile Antique Mall right now. Come on in to 4443 E. Speedway, Tucson AZ and check them out. You can start your own collection! Carol Fenn 9-2017.
Hen on nest dishes have been cherished by collectors for generations. These charming glassware pieces featuring a hen warming her eggs in a nest bring back memories of childhood visits to Grandma’s house. With their nostalgic appeal, vibrant colors, and variety of styles, it’s no wonder hen on nest remains a popular collectible category today.
As an avid collector myself, I’ve learned that not all hen on nest dishes are created equal. While prices typically range from $5 to $30 for more common examples, certain rare and antique versions can command upwards of $100 or more. For those seeking the crown jewel for their collection, understanding what makes a hen on nest valuable is key.
In this article I’ll share insider tips on identifying and assessing the most valuable hen on nest dishes. Whether you’re a fellow collector or just inherited a hen on nest and want to know its worth these guidelines will help you spot the prime picks.
Factors That Increase Hen on Nest Value
Many variables determine the value of a vintage hen on nest dish. Here are the main factors that send its price tag skyrocketing:
Age and Manufacturer
-
Older pieces tend to be more coveted by collectors. 18th and 19th century hen on nest dishes from renowned manufacturers like Anchor Hocking Westmoreland, and Fenton are especially desirable.
-
Key details like mold marks can help date a dish and identify the maker. Well-documented makers like Indiana Glass are particularly prized.
Rare Color and Pattern
-
Unusual colors like vaseline glass or vibrant hues like cobalt blue tend to be in demand. Color intensity also adds value.
-
Hard-to-find patterns such as figural versions (like a frog or duck on nest) are more valuable than common chicken designs.
Small Size and Details
-
Diminutive sizes like trinket boxes and salt cellars rather than larger nut or candy dishes fetch higher prices.
-
Intricate details like textured feathers or delicate facial features increase worth.
Condition
- Dishes in pristine condition with no cracks, chips, or signs of wear have added appeal vs. flawed pieces. Subtle wear shows authentic age but excessive damage drops value.
Top Picks for Most Valuable Hens on Nest
With those key factors in mind, below I’ve highlighted some of the most valuable and coveted hen on nest dishes that can sell for $100-$300 or more:
Rare Fenton Hen on Nest
- This late 1920s vaseline glass hen from Fenton Glass Company features an intricate feather pattern. Its rare uranium glass commands a premium.
Vibrant Anchor Hocking Royal Ruby
- The deep ruby red color and diminutive size of this mid-century trinket box make it a top find. Made by Anchor Hocking.
Intricate Westmoreland Blue Hen
- An exceptional hen on nest with hand-painted blue accents and molded feather details from Westmoreland Glass. Circa 1930s.
Figural Frog on Nest
- Instead of a hen, this unique slag glass dish from 1950s features a figural frog on nest. Harder to find figural versions have added value.
Pristine Indiana Glass Hen
- Indiana Glass hens are popular, and this mint green dish with gold accents is in flawless vintage condition, boosting its appeal.
Where to Find Rare and Valuable Hens on Nest
Now that you know what features to look for, here are some top sources for locating those special high-dollar hen on nest dishes:
-
Antique stores – Scout booths at antique malls and shops to uncover treasures. Look carefully, as valuables are often mixed in with more common pieces.
-
Estate sales – Search sales of older homes, as the original owners may have collected vintage hen on nest over the years.
-
eBay – You can find sought-after hen on nest dishes listed by sellers here if you search diligently. Sort by highest value to spot rare picks.
-
Collector clubs – Connect with fellow hen on nest collectors to buy, sell, and trade noteworthy dishes.
-
Auctions – Specialty auction houses like Morphy Auctions sometimes feature collections of rare glassware like hen on nest.
Authenticating and Appraising Your Hen on Nest
If you already own a hen on nest dish that looks special, take steps to authenticate and appraise it before putting it up for auction or insuring it.
-
Consult reference books like Warman’s Antiques & Collectibles to identify key details.
-
Visit antiques experts for a formal appraisal and documentation of your dish.
-
Contact the original manufacturer if their trademark is present to confirm age and origins.
-
Compare your dish to others listed for sale to gauge fair market value.
Protecting and Displaying Your Valuable Hen on Nest
Once you’ve acquired that coveted rare hen on nest for your collection, be sure to properly care for it:
-
Keep hen on nest dishes in a protected curio cabinet away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
-
Use museum wax to carefully secure your hen on nest in place if displaying it.
-
Handle fragile antique glassware with care and clean only with a soft cloth to avoid damage.
-
Insure your most valuable pieces in case of theft, loss, or breakage.
The Thrill of the Hunt
Part of the fun of collecting vintage hen on nest dishes is the thrill of the hunt – finding that exceptionally rare and valuable piece to crown your group. Now that you know how to spot a valuable hen on nest and where to track them down, you’ll be equipped to take your collection to the next level.
As you search for that holy grail hen on nest, don’t forget to enjoy learning about the history and nostalgia these special dishes represent. Here’s to many delightful adventures in collecting ahead!
Hen on Nest: The History, Popular Colors & Glass, and Value
FAQ
What was a glass hen on a nest used for?
Who makes a hen on nest?
Well-known companies like Anchor-Hocking, Westmoreland, Fenton, and Boyd all made their own versions of this kitschy classic, though the list of manufactures is extremely long. Collectors can refer to them as HON, roosters on nest, chicken on nest or any number of variations on the name. Vaseline glass hen on nest made by Fenton. Via/ Wiki Commons
What size is a hen on nest dish?
New and used hen on nest dishes and affordably priced glass chicken dishes are most frequently found in two sizes: 5-inch and 7-inch. Get the best deals on Hen On Nest when you shop the largest online selection at eBay.com. Free shipping on many items | Browse your favorite brands | affordable prices.
Where can I find a vintage hen on nest dish?
Vintage 1970s. Hen on Nest w/ 1 Egg Hand Painted Ceramic Artistic. The hen on nest dish is something of an icon in many American households. You’ll find this dish in a huge range of colors, sizes, and styles. eBay is the place to find that affordable hen on nest dish or glass chicken dish you’ve been searching for.
Are hen on nest dishes a good collectible?
The iconic designs are a wonderful collectible that has an incredible amount of variety in color and size. Read on to find out more about hen on nest dishes. Going all the way back to the 18th century, hen on nest dishes were imported to the U.S. from England at great expense- a trinket that only the wealthy could afford.
What type of material is best for a hen’s nest?
Hens prefer nests containing loose material, such as wood shavings, rice hulls, or straw. These materials encourage more nest building behaviors. In cage-free commercial production systems, automatic egg collection nests are commonly used, featuring a rubber (plastic) nest floor mat or artificial turf.
Are there glass hens on nest-covered dishes?
According to Smith’s extensive study, there are indeed glass hens on nest-covered dishes. Shirley Smith, who has been collecting such dishes for 10 years, has a collection of around 400 pieces and over 3,000 photographs.