Kerr Self Sealing Dating Kerr Mason Jar Date Chart
Introduction
Kerr self-sealing mason jars have been a staple in American households since the early 1900s. These jars were created to help preserve food and have become a collector's item among enthusiasts. One of the most important aspects of collecting Kerr mason jars is knowing how to date them. This article will provide a Kerr self-sealing mason jar date chart to help identify the age and value of these jars.
The History of Kerr Self-Sealing Mason Jars
John L. Mason invented the first mason jar in 1858, but it wasn't until 1903 that Alexander H. Kerr created the Kerr self-sealing mason jar. These jars quickly became popular due to their ability to preserve food for longer periods. Kerr also created a wide variety of jar sizes and designs to meet the needs of different households.
Kerr Self-Sealing Mason Jar Date Chart
Identifying the age of a Kerr self-sealing mason jar can be tricky, but there are a few key features to look for:
- Logo: The logo on the jar can help identify its age. The earliest Kerr logos were embossed with "Kerr Glass Mfg. Co." and "Sand Springs, Okla." Later logos were embossed with simply "Kerr" or "Kerr Glass" with the city/state designation.
- Color: Clear jars were the most common, but Kerr also produced jars in amber, green, and blue. The color can help identify the age of the jar.
- Lid: The lid can also help identify the age of the jar. The earliest lids were made of glass and had a metal band to hold them in place. Later lids were made of metal and had a rubber seal to create an airtight seal.
Here is a Kerr self-sealing mason jar date chart to help identify the age of your jar:
| Logo | Color | Lid | Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerr Glass Mfg. Co. Sand Springs, Okla. | Clear | Glass lid with metal band | 1904-1915 |
| Kerr Glass Mfg. Co. Sand Springs, Okla. | Amber, Green, or Blue | Glass lid with metal band | 1915-1916 |
| Kerr Glass Mfg. Co. | Clear | Glass lid with metal band | 1916-1923 |
| Kerr Glass Mfg. Co. | Amber or Clear | Metal lid with rubber seal | 1923-1960 |
| Kerr Glass | Clear | Metal lid with rubber seal | 1960s-1990s |
Value of Kerr Self-Sealing Mason Jars
The value of a Kerr self-sealing mason jar depends on several factors, including its age, condition, and rarity. Jars from the early 1900s are typically more valuable than those from later decades. Rare colors, designs, and sizes can also increase the value of a jar. Jars in excellent condition with intact logos and lids are the most valuable.
Conclusion
Collecting Kerr self-sealing mason jars can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Knowing how to date these jars can help identify their age and value. Use the Kerr self-sealing mason jar date chart provided in this article to help identify the age of your jar. Remember that the value of a jar depends on several factors, so do your research before buying or selling.