Windmill Reissues, Imperial and Smith

Imperial reissued many of their original patterns, including Windmill. Successor companies continued the tradition and when those companies went out of business, the molds were purchased by other companies. So we can expect to see reproductions for years to come. The water sets are usually found with a clear frosted panel that shows the windmills--an effect called "sueded."

Blue plates will have been made by Imperial and marked with the "IG." They sell for a little less than $20 on ebay.

Bowls in smoke with a three-in-one edge will be Imperial and can be found on ebay for less than $14.

Ruffled Bowls in cobalt, light blue, pink, amethyst, and red were made by Smith and usually have the "S" mark on the base. They can be found in the $15 to $20 range on ebay.

Water sets in marigold with sueded panels sell for $50 to $80 on ebay; those with complete iridization bring up to $100.

Tumblers in marigold with sueded panels sell for $10 to $15. Completely iridized tumblers (IG) are also known in marigold, blue, and smoke; marigold are worth about $5, other colors $10 the $15.

Pitchers with complete iridization bring $25 to $35 on ebay.

Oval trays, 9 1/2 inch in cobalt, were made by Imperial. They bring about $20 either at live auctions or ebay.

Here's an oddity--a hat made from a tumbler. The rim is pulled way down. I've not seen such a whimsey before in either classic or contemporary production. This one sold for $19 on ebay and is marked IG on the interior base.

Classic Windmill

3/12/08