It’s possible that your Pyrex kitchenware could be worth thousands of dollars, depending on its history and design. The iconic brand has sold dishes to customers for over a century, and some from the 1950s and 60s are now considered highly valuable collectibles.
Originally created by New York-based Corning Glass Works in 1908, Pyrex was the brainchild of Bessie Littleton, who was married to a scientist at the company. Littleton’s husband worked with borosilicate glass, known for its ability to withstand extreme temperatures without shattering. After breaking her own baking dish due to oven heat, Littleton experimented by baking a sponge cake in borosilicate glass, inspiring Corning Glass Works to launch the Pyrex kitchenware line.
The Rise of Pyrex as a Collector’s Item
Over the years, Pyrex became a household staple in America, maintaining its popularity into 2025. However, certain classic dishes from the 1960s, such as the Turquoise Golden Birds Pattern Casserole Dish, have seen a significant increase in value and rarity.
This particular dish features a turquoise exterior with a gold pattern of leaves and birds. It was part of a special release by Corning Glass Works, often given to employees to commemorate events. A unique aspect of this dish is its “Space Saver” shape, designed to be rectangular and oblong for optimal refrigerator storage, with sizes ranging from 1.25 to 2 quarts.
At least two listings on eBay for the nostalgic Turquoise Golden Birds Pattern Casserole Dish recently sold for $6,000.
The Market for Vintage Pyrex
The high demand for vintage Pyrex is evident, with some dishes selling for extraordinary prices. The highest known purchase price for a Pyrex dish reached $22,100 on eBay in 2022, according to Curbed. Another seller recently listed one of the rarest designs for a staggering $100,000.
One of the most coveted Pyrex items is the “Lucky in Love” prototype bowl, first made in 1959. While the standard version features hearts and clovers, the prototype has only clovers. A prototype was sold at a Goodwill in 2017 for $6,000, and Corning’s Museum of Glass holds a version of it. Due to its popularity, Pyrex re-released the “Lucky in Love” design in 2018 for a limited time.
Expert Opinions and Historical Context
According to experts, the value of Pyrex is driven by its historical significance and the nostalgia it evokes. “Vintage Pyrex is not just about the utility; it’s about the stories and memories associated with it,” says a collector from the Corning Museum of Glass.
Pyrex’s journey began with a simple idea and has grown into a cultural phenomenon. The first Pyrex line, launched in 1915, included 12 pieces, such as plates and loaf pans. It wasn’t until the 1940s that measurements were added to Pyrex measuring cups, a feature now taken for granted.
Today, 80% of U.S. homes still have Pyrex, a testament to its enduring legacy.
Comparisons with Other Collectible Kitchenware
Pyrex is not alone in the world of collectible kitchenware. Le Creuset, another beloved brand founded in 1925, offers enameled cast-iron cookware known for its durability and high retail value. A shopper recently paid just $42 for a Le Creuset braiser and Dutch oven, items worth $980. Similarly, a 14-piece Le Creuset set was found for $1,500 less than its standard price.
These examples highlight a growing trend among collectors and thrifters who seek out valuable kitchenware, both for personal use and investment.
As the market for vintage kitchenware continues to thrive, the allure of Pyrex and its counterparts remains strong. Whether it’s the nostalgia, the history, or the unique designs, these items continue to capture the hearts of collectors worldwide.