AI Appraisal Estimate

This is a fine example of Tiffin-Franciscan stemware, featuring the elegantly detailed 'Minton' pattern. The goblet is constructed from blown amber-colored glass, characterized by its warm, honey-toned translucence. The primary aesthetic feature is the heavy, 22-karat gold encrusted border adorning the rim, which displays a complex acid-etched lace and scrollwork motif typical of the Depression Era luxury glass market (mid-20th century, circa 1940s-1950s). The bowl transition into a slender, clear glass stem that flares out into a circular footed base. Remarkably, the base also features a matching gold-encrusted rim, enhancing the item's symmetry and decorative value. The construction shows high-quality craftsmanship with a smooth finish and thin, delicate walls. Regarding condition, the goblet appears to be in very good vintage state; the amber glass remains clear without clouding, and the intricate gold gilding shows minimal wear or rubbing, suggesting it was used primarily for display or special occasions. There are no visible chips, cracks, or deep scratches on the bowl or base. While no maker's mark is visible in the photo—which is standard for this period and manufacturer—the Minton etch pattern is a distinctive identifier for Tiffin Glass.

Based on my visual examination of the provided documentation, I have assessed this Tiffin-Franciscan Waterford/Minton pattern (#14196) amber wine goblet. The item exhibits the characteristic 'warm honey' glass tone and high-relief gold encrustation consistent with Tiffin’s mid-century production (1940s-1950s). The 22k gold lace border appears remarkably well-preserved; the lack of significant 'rubbing' or oxidation suggests a high-quality application and minimal abrasive cleaning over the decades. The clarity of the amber glass without 'sickness' or clouding further supports its vintage value. The current market for Depression-era luxury glass is stable but niche. While 'Minton' is a highly desirable etch, single stems typically command a lower price point than complete sets of 8 or 12. Comparables for amber Tiffin stemware with intact gold encrustation currently range from $40 to $70 per stem at auction and through specialized estate retailers. Factors limiting this appraisal include the inability to physically inspect for 'flea bites' along the gold-encrusted rim or internal stress fractures not visible in photographs. Furthermore, a physical inspection is required to verify the weight and resonance of the glass to confirm it is blown lead glass rather than a pressed imitation. Full authentication would require side-by-side comparison with cataloged Tiffin etching plates and an UV light test to check for specific fluorescence patterns typical of mid-century glass compositions. Without provenance or original purchase receipts, I am identifying this based solely on the distinctive acid-etch pattern and stem shape.