We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Next time you’re browsing the glassware aisle at Goodwill, take a closer look at that funky, asymmetrical orange vase – it could be a valuable vintage swung vase! These babies can go for $5-$15 at the thrift store, but certain styles, colors, and brands can be resold for hundreds or even thousands online. They’re a real hidden gem that’s totally worth keeping an eye out for. You might be wondering, “What’s a swung vase, anyway?” Well, they’ve got a standard base but a narrow, fluted shape with a dramatic lip on one side. The crazy shape comes from the manufacturing process – they’re molded and then swung upside down before fully cooling. That means each one is a little unique. Swung vases were super trendy in the mid-century period thanks to their bold colors and funky designs. They were really popular from the 1960s through the 80s, made by companies like Viking Glass, L.E. Smith, and Fenton Art Glass. Today, they’re not just awesome vases, but also great mid-century modern decor pieces that could be worth a pretty penny if you find the right one.
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Tips for spotting swung vases at the thrift store
Spotting a vintage swung vase at the thrift store should be pretty easy – their unique shape really stands out. The trick is telling the real deal from modern reproductions. One giveaway is that authentic swung vases usually don’t have any maker’s marks – the original labels and stickers have probably worn off over time. You can also look for a mold seam on the base that gets narrower as it goes up the vase.
Swung vases come in all sorts of colors, sizes, and styles, but green ones tend to be extra collectible and valuable if you’re looking to resell. Some even have uranium glass, which makes them super popular with collectors. And if you’re really lucky, you might find one with a cool hobnail or “nubby butt” base design. With so much variety out there, just keep an eye out for that signature fluted shape and check the base for those vintage indicators.
