St. Joseph Aspirin Green Glass Bottle: A Rare Collectible Treasure

The St. Joseph Aspirin green glass bottle is a cherished piece of pharmaceutical history. Introduced in the mid-20th century, this small, emerald-green bottle was designed to hold 36 aspirin tablets. Its unique color and design made it stand out on pharmacy shelves. Historically significant for its role in popularizing aspirin for children, the bottle’s design also reflects the era’s emphasis on both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Collectors value these bottles for their nostalgic charm and their representation of early 20th-century medical packaging.

Historical Background

The St. Joseph Aspirin green glass bottle has an interesting history. St. Joseph Aspirin was founded in 1887 by Leopold Gerstle, a Bavarian immigrant, in Bluff City, Tennessee. The green glass bottles were manufactured by Owens-Illinois Glass Co., with some bottles dating back to 1944. These bottles were small, typically holding 36 tablets, and featured a metal lid. The St. Joseph brand became well-known for its pediatric aspirin, introduced in 1947 by the Plough Company.

Design and Features

The St. Joseph Aspirin green glass bottle is small, measuring about 2.5 inches in height and 1.5 inches in width. It has an emerald green color and a rectangular shape with rounded edges. The bottle features embossed writing with “St. Joseph” on each side and the Owens-Illinois mark on the bottom. Some bottles also have a paper advertising label and a metal lid.

Collectibility and Value

The St. Joseph Aspirin green glass bottle is considered a collectible item for several reasons:

1. Historical Significance: These bottles date back to the mid-20th century, representing a piece of pharmaceutical history.
2. Unique Design: The green glass and vintage labeling make it visually appealing and distinctive.
3. Rarity: Over time, fewer of these bottles remain in good condition, increasing their scarcity.
4. Condition: Bottles with intact labels, original lids, and minimal damage are more valuable.
5. Market Demand: Collectors of vintage medical and pharmaceutical items often seek these bottles, driving up their desirability.

These factors collectively influence the value and appeal of the St. Joseph Aspirin green glass bottle among collectors.

The St. Joseph Aspirin Green Glass Bottle: A Valuable Collectible

The St. Joseph Aspirin green glass bottle is a highly valued collectible item due to its historical significance, unique design, rarity, condition, and market demand.

Introduced in the mid-20th century, these small emerald-green bottles were designed to hold 36 aspirin tablets and feature embossed writing with ‘St. Joseph’ on each side.

Collectors prize these bottles for their nostalgic charm and representation of early 20th-century medical packaging.

With fewer bottles remaining in good condition over time, those with intact labels, original lids, and minimal damage are highly sought after by collectors of vintage medical and pharmaceutical items.