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Mid-Century Bar Cart Icons: King’s Crown Ruby Flashed Glassware

If you have ever browsed an antique mall or inherited a vintage holiday table setting, you have likely crossed paths with one of America’s most enduring glassware designs: the King’s Crown pattern. Characterized by its heavy, substantial weight and iconic "thumbprint" indentations, this pressed-mold pattern bridges the gap between late 19th-century craftsmanship and mid-century modern atomic style. Two of the most collectible shapes in this line are the versatile 5.5-inch wine goblet and its smaller sibling, the 4.5-inch mini cordial glass.

RUBY RED GLASS

8/18/20262 min read

The Anatomy of a Classic: Pressed Glass & Gold Flash


Though the King’s Crown pattern dates back to the 1890s (originally named "X.L.C.R." by Adams Glass), the pieces we recognize today were primarily mass-produced between 1940 and 1971 by iconic American manufacturers like Tiffin-Franciscan and Indiana Glass. What makes these glasses so unique is the interplay between two distinct manufacturing techniques:



The Pressed Mold:

Liquid glass was forced into metal molds using a mechanical plunger. This left behind distinct vertical mold seams, a perfectly smooth interior, and incredibly thick walls. It is the reason a single 5.5-inch goblet feels like a tank, weighing in at a hefty 14.4 ounces.


That glowing red band around the rim isn't colored glass at all. It is a painted chemical stain containing real gold that was applied to the clear glass and fired a second time..


The Ruby Flashed:

Big & Small: The Water Goblet vs. The Wine Cordial

The 5.5-inch Water Goblet


Collectors today love mixing and matching the different scale variations of the King's Crown line to create a layered look on open shelving or bar carts.


The 4.5-inch Mini Cridial


Standing at five and a half inches tall, this is the classic standard of the line. Originally cataloged for water, juice, or everyday wine, it represents the foundational piece of any mid-century collection.



Tucking neatly alongside the larger goblet is the 4.5-inch cordial. Holding just 3 to 4 ounces, these small-stature stems were designed for after-dinner port wines, liqueurs, or aperitifs.




Elevate your Tablescape with Vintage King's Crown Ruby Flashed Glass Barware!

See our Retro Ruby-Flashed Reverie for Set Details

Duo Goblet Set

Set Of 2 Vintage King's Crown Ruby Red & Clear Thumbprint Wine Glass Goblets 5.5-inch

As a complimentary service, our trusted on-site Affiliate Marketing team at RetroReverie.com provides these direct links to make your experience easier and more convenient.


Vintage Set of 4 King's Crown Ruby Red Thumbprint Wine Glass Cordial Goblets

4-Piece Mini Cordial Set

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