Kings Crown glassware (also called Thumbprint pattern) is one of the most iconic vintage pressed glass designs, beloved by mid-century enthusiasts and Depression glass collectors. At Jewelry Bubble, our Indiana Glass Kings Crown Thumbprint Glass Set embodies this timeless American craftsmanship. In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The 130-year evolution of the Kings Crown pattern
- How to distinguish Indiana Glass pieces from Tiffin/U.S. Glass Co. versions
- Care tips to preserve your collectible glassware
- Why this pattern remains a staple of vintage collections
The History of Kings Crown Glassware
Origins: Adams & Co. (1890-1891)
The pattern began as XLCR (Excelsior) in 1890 by Adams & Company. Early pieces featured:
- Deep ruby staining on upper sections
- Nine rounded thumbprints with zigzag borders
- Thick, heavy glass construction
U.S. Glass Co. Era (1892-1963)
After acquiring Adams & Co. in 1891, U.S. Glass Co. expanded the line with:
- New colors like amber, blue, and green
- Renamed Dubonnet (1943) and later Kings Crown (1952)
- Banded ruby/blue finishes and floral engravings
Indiana Glass Company (1959-1971)
Indiana Glass revolutionized the pattern by:
- Introducing solid-color pieces (no staining)
- Using rounded thumbprints vs. Tiffin’s oval shapes
- Producing vibrant hues like bright yellow (like our set)
Legacy: Colony Crown (1971-1985)
After Lancaster Colony acquired Indiana Glass, they:
- Streamlined production as Colony Crown
- Focused on tableware over decorative pieces
How to Identify Indiana Glass Kings Crown
Key Features
| Characteristic | Indiana Glass | Tiffin/U.S. Glass |
|---|---|---|
| Thumbprint Shape | Round | Oval |
| Rim Style | Straight | Flared |
| Color Application | Solid throughout | Banded/stained |
| Mold Seams | 2 seams | 3 seams |
| Common Colors | Yellow, amber, crystal | Ruby, blue, cranberry |
Example: Our Kings Crown Glassware Set shows classic Indiana traits: straight sides, rounded thumbprints, and vibrant solid yellow coloring.
Collector FAQs
-
How do I authenticate Kings Crown glassware?
- Check for mold seams (2 = Indiana; 3 = Tiffin)
- Use UV light: Indiana’s post-1959 pieces often fluoresce
- Look for “IGC” or “Lancaster” markings (rarely present)
-
What makes yellow Kings Crown special?
- Exclusive to Indiana Glass’ 1959-1971 production
- Highly sought-after due to bold mid-century aesthetic
- Pairs beautifully with atomic-era décor
-
How should I clean and store these pieces?
- Hand-wash only (dishwashers damage iridescence)
- Store upright with felt separators
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent color fading
Why Collect Kings Crown Glassware?
Investment Value
- Complete sets appreciate 8-12% annually
- Rare colors (yellow, purple) command 3x premium
Styling Ideas
- Tablescapes: Pair with Fiestaware or Franciscan Starburst
- Bar Cart: Use as cordial glasses for vintage cocktails
- Display: Showcase in lighted china cabinets
Explore More at Jewelry Bubble
Love this guide? Discover other mid-century treasures reads:
- The Timeless Charm of Depression Glass: Exploring the Rare Pink Cube Butter Dish
- 10 Must-Have Milk Glass Pieces Every Collector and Home Stylist Should Own
- Discover the Timeless Charm of Jadeite Egg Cups: Perfect Vintage Kitchenware Collectibles
References & Further Reading
Learn all about Kings Crown glassware-also known as the Thumbprint pattern-in this podcast episode from our in-depth Kings Crown Glassware Guide. Discover the fascinating 130-year history of this iconic vintage pressed glass, from its origins with Adams & Co. as XLCR (Excelsior) in 1890, through the U.S. Glass Co. and Indiana Glass eras, to its legacy as Colony Crown. Get expert tips on how to identify authentic Kings Crown pieces, understand the differences between Indiana Glass and Tiffin/U.S. Glass Co. versions, and learn why vibrant colors like yellow and ruby are so collectible. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to vintage glassware, this episode covers care, styling, and investment value for Kings Crown glassware-making it a must-listen for anyone passionate about mid-century and Depression glass collectibles. For more details, visit our full guide and explore other vintage finds at Jewelry Bubble.
