Examining Lips, Tops, And Bottoms

There are a few rules that can aid in the dating of old glass bottles. All the rules are based on the method used to manufacture the bottle. A search for mold seams, pontils, designs, or “whittle” marks can give the first clue to the age of the bottle. Most bottles produced before 1840 were made by hand and have no seams. After 1840, bottles were made in molds. Examine the top or lip of the bottle.