The AEAA is extremely proud to present this next Vaseline glass item, from the large & diverse collection of Mr. Loren “Butch” Morse of Yukon, Oklahoma. Our handsome heirloom represents a lovely original 1980 Fenton Topaz Opalescent dealers shelf or counter display sign in the Fenton oval, and made especially for the Fenton Art Glass Collectors Association (FAGCA). This beautiful sign is in excellent + condition, and features complementary Opalescence, including the signature Opalescent overlaid rim. These valuable signs were only produced for one convention, and is properly marked & dated. Our valuable sign weighs 7 oz. and measures 2.25 x 5 x 2.5" tall. These FAGCA pieces are always a welcome addition to any Fenton or Vaseline collection. Research consulted: Fenton Art Glass Patterns 1939 to 1980 2nd Ed., AND Fenton Art Glass Colors 1939 to 1980 / both by Margaret & Kenn Whitmyer; The Big Book of Fenton Glass 1940 to 1970 AND Fenton Glass Compendium Volume #1 (1940-1970) / both by John Walk; Fenton Basket Patterns Acanthus To Hummingbird AND Innovation To Wisteria & Numbers / both by Debbie And Randy Coe; Fenton Glass, The Second & Third 25 Years / by William Heacock James Measell and Frank Fenton. xxxxxxxxxxxxx. Fenton Topaz Opalescent hobnail glass was introduced in early 1941. Officially, the glass was produced until the end of 1942 (some references suggest production through 1943. We feel that the 1943 date is unlikely, as the War Powers scope was expanded in 1942 with the drafting of the Hazardous Materials Act, which banned any and all use of rare earth and radioactive materials, reserving them specifically for the U.S. Government / Defense Department. This act obviously included Uranium Oxide, which was the radioactive medium in Topaz glass, which literally exploded in luminescence under a black light. In early 1959, the act was rescinded, and Fenton became the first glass house in America to re-introduce their complete Topaz Opalescent Hobnail Vaseline Glass formula by July of that year. With a very few exceptions, and without a really good explanation (perhaps lagging sales or high manufacturing costs), Fenton discontinued the Topaz line between July of 1960 and December 1960. These Topaz Opalescent hobnail items are highly collectible and quite valuable. xxxxxxxxxxxxx. Mr. Morse was a loving family man, and also a well-known and respected member of the Vaseline Glass collecting community. His untimely passing a year ago was a blow to everyone, and we have very humbly accepted the commission to place his treasures in good homes. The Morse family gratefully appreciates your participation in this Estate sale, and wishes you all safe & prosperous Thanksgiving + Christmas seasons.

Excellent + condition