Patent Medicine Bottle Appraisal

Norwich Cherry Expectorant Compound Bottle

This item is an antique or vintage glass bottle of 'Cherry Expectorant Compound' manufactured by 'Norwich'. The bottle is clear glass, approximately 6 inches in fluid capacity as indicated by the '6 FLUID OUNCES' embossed on the shoulder of the bottle. The glass has a slightly ambered hue consistent with age and typical glass composition from an earlier era. The bottle features a ribbed, screw-on metal cap, likely aluminum or tin-plated, which shows visible wear, tarnish, and minor dents, suggesting prolonged storage or handling. The main body of the bottle is adorned with an aged paper label, predominantly cream-colored with a distinctive red border and black text. The label details the product name 'Cherry Expectorant Compound' prominently. Below the title, smaller text reveals the ingredients: 'Each fluid ounce contains Alcohol 6% CHLOROFORM 2 Mins' (likely 'Minims'), followed by 'Combined with active ingredients: Wild Cherry, Squill, Ipecac and Sanguinaria.' These ingredients, particularly chloroform and specific plant extracts, indicate an earlier period of pharmaceutical manufacturing, likely pre-dating modern regulations. The manufacturer's logo, 'Norwich' in an oval, is visible at the bottom of the label, along with the full company name 'THE NORWICH PHARMACAL COMPANY' and the address 'NORWICH NEW YORK U.S.A.' The phrase 'Makers of Unguentine' is also present, linking it to another well-known product. The liquid inside the bottle appears dark brown or black, suggesting it is either the original contents or a residue thereof, which is a common occurrence in such vintage items. The label itself shows signs of age, including yellowing, minor discoloration, and some scuff marks along the edges, but remains largely intact and legible. The glass bottle itself appears free of chips or cracks, although it does have a general dullness from dust or residue accumulation. The embossed 'Norwich' on the bottle's neck further confirms its origin. This bottle likely dates from the early to mid-20th century, before stricter regulations on ingredients like chloroform in over-the-counter medications.