Introduction to Antique Glass Fire Extinguishers
Long before modern fire suppression systems, glass fire extinguishers represented ingenious early attempts at fire safety. These distinctive glass devices, often referred to as “fire grenades,” were popular from the late 19th century through the early 20th century. Today, they’ve become sought-after collectibles that combine historical significance with decorative appeal.
These vintage fire safety devices came in various forms - from wall-mounted units with glass bulbs to handheld glass grenades designed to be thrown at flames. Their distinctive shapes, vibrant colors, and historical significance have made them increasingly valuable to collectors of firefighting memorabilia, antique glass, and historical artifacts.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what determines the value of these fascinating pieces of firefighting history, how to identify different types, current market prices, and important considerations for collectors.
Types of Antique Glass Fire Extinguishers
Fire Grenades
The most common type of glass fire extinguisher was the “fire grenade” - a handheld glass bulb filled with fire-suppressing chemicals. These were designed to be thrown at fires, with the glass breaking on impact and releasing the extinguishing agent.
Popular manufacturers included:
- Harden’s Hand Fire Extinguisher
- Hayward Hand Grenade Fire Extinguisher
- Red Comet Fire Grenades
- Little Giant Fire Extinguisher
Wall-Mounted Automatic Units
More sophisticated systems featured wall-mounted brackets holding large glass bulbs designed to automatically break and release their contents when temperatures reached a certain point.
Notable manufacturers included:
- AutoFyrStop
- Star Automatic Fire Extinguisher
- Guardian Fire Extinguisher
- Nutting Automatic Fire Extinguisher
These units typically featured a mounting bracket, decorative metal cage, and a glass bulb that would shatter when exposed to heat.
Chemical Compositions
Most glass fire extinguishers contained one of these chemicals:
- Carbon tetrachloride (most common)
- Salt water solutions
- Sodium bicarbonate mixtures
- Calcium chloride solutions
Safety note: Many antique fire extinguishers contain chemicals now known to be hazardous. Carbon tetrachloride, in particular, is now recognized as toxic and potentially carcinogenic. Collections should be handled with care, and broken specimens should be treated as hazardous materials.
Factors Affecting Value
Rarity and Age
The age and scarcity of a fire grenade significantly impacts its value. Earlier examples from the 1870s-1890s typically command higher prices than later models. Limited production runs or extinguishers from smaller manufacturers tend to be more valuable due to their scarcity.
Condition
Condition is perhaps the most critical factor in valuation:
Condition Assessment for Glass Fire Extinguishers
Check applicable items to determine overall condition
- Complete glass integrity with no cracks or chips
- Original liquid contents still present and sealed
- Clear, legible embossed manufacturer markings
- Original mounting hardware or brackets included
- Original paint or finish in good condition
- Matching set or complete system intact
Color and Decorative Elements
Glass fire extinguishers came in various colors, with some being significantly more desirable to collectors:
- Blue: Among the most sought-after, particularly cobalt blue examples
- Amber/Brown: Common but still collectible
- Clear: Most common, typically less valuable unless rare design
- Green: Relatively uncommon and desirable
- Red/Ruby: Rare and highly prized by collectors
- Purple/Amethyst: Extremely rare and valuable
Extinguishers with decorative embossing, etched patterns, or colorful painted labels add significantly to their value.
Manufacturer and Provenance
Certain manufacturers are known for higher quality or more decorative designs. Additionally, documented provenance from historic buildings, notable locations, or famous owners can substantially increase value.
Completeness
Complete systems with original mounting brackets, wall fixtures, or display elements are worth considerably more than the glass components alone. For example, a complete AutoFyrStop system with the original ceiling mount and decorative cage can be worth 3-5 times more than just the glass bulb.
Key Value Indicators
Current Market Values
Glass Fire Extinguisher Price Ranges
Current market values as of 2024
</tbody>
</table>
Recent auction highlights include:
Notable Recent Sales
Significant glass fire extinguisher auction results
| Category | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Common Fire Grenades (Red Comet, damaged) | $25-$75 | Most affordable entry point for collectors |
| Standard Fire Grenades (Good condition) | $75-$150 | Common makers in amber or clear glass |
| Colored Glass Grenades (Blue, Green) | $125-$300 | Complete with original contents |
| Harden Star Fire Extinguishers | $125-$400 | Based on condition and color |
| Complete Wall Units with Original Brackets | $200-$600 | AutoFyrStop or similar systems |
| Rare Examples (Ruby glass, unusual designs) | $300-$800 | Limited production models |
| Museum-Quality Specimens (Pre-1890) | $500-$2,000+ | Exceptionally rare examples with provenance |
</tbody>
</table>
Historical Context and Development
Evolution of Glass Fire Extinguishers
- 1860s
Early Prototypes
First glass fire extinguisher designs appear, using salt water or basic chemical solutions in simple glass containers. - 1870s
Commercial Production Begins
Companies like Harden begin mass-producing decorative glass fire grenades with improved chemical formulations. - 1880s
Peak Popularity
Glass fire extinguishers become standard in homes, businesses, and public buildings. Manufacturers compete with increasingly decorative designs. - 1890s
Automatic Systems
Development of ceiling-mounted automatic systems that would break when exposed to high heat, releasing extinguishing chemicals. - 1900-1910
Declining Use
Metal extinguishers with more effective chemicals begin replacing glass models. - 1920s
End of Production
Most manufacturers stop producing glass fire extinguishers as more effective alternatives become standard and regulations change. - 1950s-Present
Collector's Market Emerges
Glass fire extinguishers transition from obsolete safety equipment to sought-after collectibles with increasing value.
The development of these fire extinguishers parallels broader trends in industrial design and safety regulation. Early examples often featured elegant, Victorian-inspired designs with ornate embossing and bright colors, while later models became more utilitarian as they competed with newer technologies.
Identification Guide
Examining Embossing and Markings
Most antique glass fire extinguishers feature embossed manufacturer names, patent dates, or distinctive logos. Common markings include:
- “HARDEN’S HAND FIRE EXTINGUISHER” - One of the most common makers
- “HAYWARD HAND GRENADE FIRE EXTINGUISHER” - Another prominent manufacturer
- “RED COMET” - Known for their distinctive shape
- “LITTLE GIANT” - Features a unique grenade-like design
- Patent dates (typically between 1880-1910)
Identifying Common Shapes
Different manufacturers favored distinct shapes:
- Teardrop/Bulbous: Common for Harden and similar models
- Rounded with flat bottom: Typical of wall-mounted units
- Grenade shape with ribs: Found on many Hayward models
- Light bulb shape: Characteristic of certain automatic systems
Glass Color and Transparency
The color can help identify both the manufacturer and approximate age:
- Deep cobalt blue: Common for Harden models, highly collectible
- Amber/brown: Found across multiple manufacturers
- Clear: Most common and typically later production models
- Light blue or aqua: Earlier production runs (pre-1890)
- Purple/amethyst: Rare, often indicating glass that has changed color with age and sun exposure
Checking for Age Indicators
Look for these signs to help determine the age:
- Hand-blown glass with irregular bubbles (earlier)
- Mold seams and manufacturing marks (later)
- Pontil marks on the bottom (earlier)
- Type of glass texture and finish
Safety Considerations for Collectors
Chemical Content Concerns
Many antique fire extinguishers contain chemicals now known to be hazardous:
- Carbon tetrachloride: The most common chemical, now recognized as a carcinogen that can cause liver and kidney damage
- Salt solutions: Generally less hazardous but can be corrosive
- Unknown mixtures: Many older extinguishers contain unidentified chemicals
Handling Recommendations
When collecting and displaying glass fire extinguishers:
- Consider displaying empty specimens for safety
- If the extinguisher still contains liquid, avoid opening or breaking the seal
- Store in cool, stable locations away from heat sources
- Handle with gloves to avoid contact with potential residues
- Keep away from children and pets
- Consider displaying in sealed display cases
Disposal of Contents
If you need to dispose of the contents:
- Contact local hazardous waste facilities for guidance
- Never pour chemicals down drains or into soil
- Some museums or conservation organizations may be able to safely empty and preserve the container
The Saskatchewan Museums Association notes that these glass extinguishers “should be considered potentially dangerous and handled with extreme care,” and recommends consulting with conservation professionals before attempting to empty or clean them.
Where to Buy and Sell
Online Marketplaces
The most active markets for buying and selling glass fire extinguishers include:
- eBay: The largest marketplace with regular listings (search “antique fire extinguisher glass”)
- Etsy: Good for decorative specimens and well-presented examples
- LiveAuctioneers: Features higher-end specimens in curated auctions
- Ruby Lane: Specializes in quality antiques, including fire extinguishers
Physical Locations
Look for these items at:
- Antique shops specializing in industrial or Victorian items
- Firefighting memorabilia shows and conventions
- Architectural salvage stores
- Estate sales and auctions, particularly from older homes
Collector Communities
Connect with other collectors through:
- Facebook Groups like “Antique Fire Extinguishers & Accessories”
- Firefighting memorabilia collector forums
- Antique glass collector associations
- Museum donation programs for rare or significant specimens
Many serious collectors report finding their best pieces through networking with other enthusiasts rather than through public marketplaces.
Display and Preservation Tips
Display Options
Consider these display approaches for your collection:
- Shadow boxes: Protect fragile glass while showcasing the items
- Glass cabinets: Allow 360-degree viewing while protecting specimens
- Original wall mounts: For extinguishers with their original brackets
- Museum-style displays: With informational cards explaining history
- Themed groupings: Arranged by color, manufacturer, or era
Preservation Best Practices
To maintain the condition and value of your collection:
- Protect from direct sunlight to prevent color fading
- Maintain stable temperature and humidity
- Clean only with microfiber cloths - avoid harsh cleaners
- Handle minimally and always support the entire piece
- Document provenance and relevant historical information
- Consider conservation-grade display materials
Insurance and Documentation
For valuable collections:
- Photograph each piece from multiple angles
- Keep receipts and provenance documents
- Consider specialized collectibles insurance
- Get professional appraisals for high-value specimens
- Create detailed inventory with distinguishing characteristics
Common Questions About Glass Fire Extinguisher Values
Is there any value in old fire extinguishers?
Yes, antique glass fire extinguishers can be quite valuable collectibles. Their value ranges from $25 for common, damaged specimens to over $2,000 for rare, museum-quality examples. The most desirable are complete units in unusual colors (like cobalt blue or ruby red) with their original mounting hardware and in excellent condition.
These items are valued for their historical significance, decorative appeal, and connection to early firefighting history. Many collectors appreciate them for their ornate Victorian designs and beautiful colored glass.
What's in old glass fire extinguishers?
Most antique glass fire extinguishers contained carbon tetrachloride, a chemical that was effective at suppressing flames but is now known to be toxic and potentially carcinogenic. Some contained salt water solutions, sodium bicarbonate mixtures, or calcium chloride solutions.
Because of the potentially hazardous contents, collectors should handle these items with care and consider displaying empty specimens. Never break or open sealed extinguishers, and consult hazardous waste facilities if you need to dispose of the contents.
How can I tell how old my glass fire extinguisher is?
You can determine the approximate age of a glass fire extinguisher by:
- Looking for patent dates embossed on the glass (common from 1880-1910)
- Examining the manufacturing techniques (hand-blown with irregular bubbles indicates earlier production)
- Checking the color (earlier pieces often have deeper, more vibrant colors)
- Researching the manufacturer marks against known production dates
- Noting the shape and design (designs evolved over time)
Most collectible glass fire extinguishers date from the 1870s through the early 1920s, with the majority produced between 1880-1900.
Are glass fire extinguishers safe to keep in my home?
Glass fire extinguishers containing their original chemicals should be handled with caution. The carbon tetrachloride in many vintage extinguishers is now recognized as toxic and potentially carcinogenic. For safety:
- Consider displaying empty specimens
- Store in cool, stable locations away from heat sources
- Keep in sealed display cases if they contain original fluid
- Keep away from children and pets
- Handle with gloves to avoid contact with potential residues
Never use an antique fire extinguisher to fight a fire - they’re collectibles, not functional safety equipment.
Who buys old fire extinguishers?
Several groups actively purchase antique glass fire extinguishers:
- Collectors of firefighting memorabilia and equipment
- Antique glass collectors (particularly for colored glass examples)
- Interior designers using them as decorative pieces
- Museums and historical societies (for significant examples)
- Prop masters and set designers for period films and productions
- Restoration specialists working on historic buildings
The best markets are usually specialty online forums, collector groups, antique shows, and auction houses that specialize in industrial antiques or firefighting memorabilia.
What were fire grenades used for?
Fire grenades were an early form of fire extinguisher popular from the 1870s through the early 1900s. They were glass bulbs filled with fire-suppressing chemicals, typically carbon tetrachloride, designed to be thrown into fires.The concept was simple: when thrown at a fire, the glass would break on impact, releasing the chemical that would smother the flames by displacing oxygen and interrupting the combustion process. Some versions were designed to be mounted on walls or ceilings where they would automatically break when exposed to high heat, providing an early automatic fire suppression system.
These devices were commonly found in homes, businesses, theaters, and public buildings before more effective fire extinguisher technologies were developed.
External Resources for Collectors
Antique Trader: Fire Grenades History and Value
Comprehensive article on the history and collectability of fire grenades, with insights into current market values and collector interest.
eBay Antique Fire Extinguisher Marketplace
Active marketplace for buying and selling antique fire extinguishers with current listings and recently sold prices.
Etsy Antique Fire Extinguisher Glass Selection
Curated selection of antique glass fire extinguishers from various sellers, often with decorative display options.
LiveAuctioneers: Fire Extinguisher Auction Results
Database of auction results for antique fire extinguishers with past sales data and pricing information.
Glass Grenade Fire Extinguisher Safety Guide
Important safety information from the Saskatchewan Museums Association about handling and storing vintage glass fire extinguishers.
Antique Fire Extinguishers Facebook Group
Active collector community for antique fire extinguisher enthusiasts to share information, valuations, and collection highlights.
Conclusion: Investing in Glass Fire Extinguisher Collectibles
Antique glass fire extinguishers represent a fascinating niche in the collectibles market that combines firefighting history, industrial design, and decorative glass collecting. Their distinctive appearance, historical significance, and increasing scarcity have driven steady appreciation in value over recent decades.
For collectors interested in these items:
- Focus on condition: Complete, undamaged specimens command significant premiums
- Prioritize rare colors: Blue, green, and ruby glass examples are the most desirable
- Research makers: Learn to identify different manufacturers’ distinctive styles
- Seek complete systems: Original mounting hardware significantly increases value
- Document provenance: Historical context adds both interest and monetary value
As public interest in industrial antiques and historical firefighting equipment continues to grow, well-preserved glass fire extinguishers are likely to remain desirable collectibles with strong potential for appreciation. Their visual appeal, displayability, and connection to everyday Victorian and Edwardian life make them accessible yet fascinating collectibles for both casual and serious collectors.
Whether you’re a dedicated firefighting memorabilia enthusiast or simply appreciate the beautiful colored glass and historical significance, antique glass fire extinguishers offer an engaging collecting category with pieces available at various price points.
Get a Professional Appraisal
Unsure about your item’s value? Our certified experts provide fast, written appraisals you can trust.
- Expert report with photos and comps
- Fast turnaround
- Fixed, upfront pricing
No obligation. Secure upload.
| Item | Price | Date | Auction House |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pair of Antique Fire Extinguishing Grenades | $275-$300 | LiveAuctioneers | Matched set in original condition |
| Harden's Star Hand Fire Extinguisher (Blue) | $125 | eBay | Good condition with some wear |
| Sealed Set of HSN Nutting Fire Grenades | $250 | Heritage Auctions | Complete set with original contents |
| AutoFyrStop Glass Extinguisher with Bracket | $225 | Historic House Salvage | Complete wall-mounted unit |