If you are a collector of antique bowls you probably already know what the term collectible means. The demand for an item increases the value and its collectibility. What some new collectors don't always realize is that not all antiques are a collectible item.  An antique can be of some value due to the fact that it is old.  However, if an antique is not in demand, it is not a collectible in the sense that its value is being dictated by the limited supply and high demand. Antique bowls and collectible bowls are no strangers to this concept.

In 1955 the Anchor Hocking Company of Lancaster, Ohio, manufactured a product called Fire King. Today the Fire King line of dishes, are some of the most collectible and desired antique dishes in the United Sates.   Several varieties of Fire King dishes were made; nesting bowls, dessert bowls, glass beverage containers, casserole dishes, mugs and more. The antique bowls, or nesting bowls, produced by the Anchor Hocking Company are a very popular collector’s item.

The Fire King bowls are actually vintage and not yet antique bowls.  But despite this fact these bowls are one of the most sought after collectible dishes.  It is interesting to know that these dishes were once a promotional item and were given away for free at gas stations or inside of flour sacks.  They were also readily available at the grocery store, your average department stores, the Target’s of yesteryear and even at the hardware store.

The Anchor Hocking nesting bowls were made up of either three or four bowls that fit together. In the set of four the largest bowl was the splash bowl, the two medium size bowls were mixing bowls and the center smallest bowl with the lid was a grease bowl. The set of three nesting bowls, the splash bowl in not included.  The patterns on the bowls also varied some of the more popular ones were the tulip pattern, the dots and the apple cherries pattern.  The nesting bowls also varied in colors of light opaque green, pink, pale blue, white and ivory. 

Although the Anchor Hockings bowls are not yet antique bowls you can find them in antique stores and auctions through the country.  Naturally, when shopping for these highly collectible bowls, it is good to be aware of the markings on the bottom which of course must say Fire King, and whether or not they show lots or any ware.  Bowls that are excellent or good condition are worth around $350 to $400.  The value goes down significantly with signs of ware, staining, or damage.

Thrift stores are still a great place to find these nearly antique bowls at an under valued price.  The best way to price your prized findings is by bringing a collector’s guide.  “The Anchor Hocking’s Fire King and More: Identification and Price Guide” comes highly recommended as the must have guide.  You can also connect with others who collect antique dishes at http://www.antiquedishcollectors.com and ask those in the know.