Derby Glassware Appraisal

Kentucky Derby 1981 Commemorative Glass

This item is a clear glass drinking tumbler, likely a highball or water glass, commemorating the Kentucky Derby from the year 1981. Its physical characteristics include a cylindrical form with a slightly tapered lip and a sturdy base. The primary decoration is a multi-color applied decal or screen-printed design featuring a shield motif. The top banner of the shield is green with 'KENTUCKY DERBY' in yellow lettering. Below this, the shield's border is yellow with a decorative pattern, enclosing an image of a jockey on horseback. The jockey's silks are red and yellow, with a prominent '7' on the saddlecloth, indicating a specific horse or position in the race. The base of the shield design is adorned with stylized roses in pink/red hues and the year '1981' printed in green. The glass itself appears to be made of standard clear soda-lime glass. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant abrasions on the glass surface. The applied design shows good color retention with no obvious fading or flaking, suggesting it has been well-preserved or minimally used. A small purple sticker with '$10' written on it is affixed to the upper portion of the glass, serving as a price tag from a retail or resale environment. This type of glass is commonly manufactured as a souvenir item for significant events like the Kentucky Derby. The craftsmanship is typical for mass-produced commemorative glassware of its era, focusing on clear imagery and durable applied decoration rather than intricate handwork. The presence of the year '1981' clearly dates the item and places it within a specific historical context related to the famous horse race. Its condition seems to be very good for an item of its age, with all decorative elements intact and vibrant.