Embossed Soda Bottle Appraisal

Oahu Soda Works (O.S.W.) Embossed Glass Soda Bottle

This is a vintage, pale green 'aqua' glass soda bottle, notable for its distinct embossed lettering and regional Hawaiian origins. The bottle features a crown-top finish with a reinforced lip, leading down a tapered neck to a cylindrical body. The central embossing includes 'O.S.W.' centered within a diamond frame, followed by the text 'OAHU SODA WORKS' and 'AIEA' on the lower portion, indicating its production for the Aiea community on the island of Oahu. The glass quality displays characteristic artisan imperfections of the early-to-mid 20th century, including tiny air bubbles (seeds) and some slight distortion in the transparency. In terms of condition, the bottle exhibits significant internal 'sickness' or etching, manifesting as a frosty, white calcification or haze throughout the interior, which occurs from prolonged exposure to moisture or burial. There are visible surface abrasions, minor scuffs, and a general layer of grime consistent with find-site artifacts. Despite the heavy clouding, the embossing remains sharp and legible. This piece likely dates from the 1920s to 1940s, a period when local island soda works were prolific before national brand consolidation. It represents a piece of Hawaiian industrial history and local commercial archaeology, though the value is tempered by the heavy internal atmospheric haze.