Antique Fire Extinguisher Grenade Value: Collector's Price Guide 2024

Red Comet fire grenades typically range from $25 to $150 in value, depending on condition and completeness. As more common later models (1930s-1950s), they're generally less valuable than Victorian-era examples. However, unused Red Comet grenades in original packaging or complete sets with wall mounts can command higher prices, potentially reaching $200-$300.

Yes, antique fire grenades can pose health hazards. Many contain carbon tetrachloride, a chemical now known to be toxic and potentially carcinogenic. Additionally, some may contain other hazardous chemicals or solutions. Never open, shake vigorously, or intentionally break these items. Display them safely out of reach of children and pets, and consider consulting with experts about proper handling if you suspect your grenades contain original chemicals.

Authentic antique fire grenades typically feature:

- Manufacturer's name and sometimes patent dates embossed in the glass
- Thin glass construction (they were designed to break easily)
- Signs of age-appropriate wear on the base
- Hand-blown characteristics in earlier examples (slight asymmetry, pontil marks)
- Correct shape and design for the purported manufacturer
- Period-appropriate glass color and manufacturing techniques

Reproductions often have thicker glass, lack proper embossing, or show modern manufacturing characteristics like perfectly uniform thickness.

The most valuable fire grenades typically include:

- Rare-colored examples (blue, purple, or unusual multi-colored designs)
- Early Victorian-era grenades (1870s-1890s) from premier manufacturers like Harden's Star
- Complete sets with original wall brackets or display cases
- Grenades with documented historical provenance
- Unusual shapes or highly decorative patterns
- Multi-grenade sales kits in original packaging

These rare examples can sell for $1,000 to $2,500 or more at specialized auctions.

You have several options for selling antique fire grenades:

- Online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy
- Specialized antique dealers who focus on fire equipment or glass collectibles
- Auction houses like Heritage Auctions or local auction companies
- Antique shows and collector events
- Facebook Marketplace or specialized collector groups

For higher-value rare grenades, consider having them professionally appraised first and selling through an auction house for the best return.

Fire grenades were an early fire suppression method used from the 1870s through the early 1900s. They were typically:

- Placed in strategic locations throughout buildings
- Mounted in decorative wall brackets or stored in special cases
- Grabbed and thrown directly into flames when a fire broke out
- Designed to shatter on impact, releasing fire-suppressing chemicals

The glass containers held carbon tetrachloride (in most cases) or salt water solutions that would help extinguish or suppress flames upon breaking. They were eventually phased out due to safety concerns and the development of more effective fire suppression systems.