by Julie Noyas | Apr 11, 2019 | Miscellaneous
Item Number: 377
Diameter: 3¾”
Production Dates: 1980-1982
Out of all the Fostoria American Coasters, this stunning 16-rayed version is the hardest one to find. It is easy to understand why, for they were only produced from 1980-1982. With a short production run, and also being prone to breakage during and after the manufacturing process, there simply are not a lot of them available. Even fewer are the ones in great condition.
Expect slight variations in size. The 16-rayed coasters that I have are slightly smaller – bigger than 3½” but smaller than 3¾”. The outer rim of glass that surrounds this Coaster is thinner than the other variations, making it a bit more fragile. I have noticed from my own experience that glasses do not sit as securely in the center of this Coaster as they do in the other styles.
While the 16-Rayed Coaster might be more difficult to find (especially in great condition) it is truly one of the prettiest Coasters that Fostoria Glass ever produced. As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Coasters on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Apr 2, 2019 | Miscellaneous
Item Number: M-07
Diameter: 3¾”
Production Dates: Unknown
The 12-Rayed Coaster is very thick and durable, and still easy to find. As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Coasters on eBay.
by Julie Noyas | Mar 18, 2019 | Miscellaneous
Item Number: 380
Diameter: 3¾”
Production Dates: 1937-1980
While there were a few differently-designed Coasters in the American line, the Coaster featured in this post was produced longer than any other design. It made its debut in 1937 and was produced for over forty years. This Coaster showcases the famed cubes all over its surface, encased within a circular glass rim.
The origin of the term “coaster” dates back to the mid-1700’s, at a time when they were commonly used by household servants to hold decanters and wine bottles. The intent of the coaster was that it would easily slide (or “coast”) from one person to the next around the table. Earlier coasters were often made out of wood, silver and paper. Any type of coaster that slid easily would work – even glass. These days; however, most people use coasters for an entirely different purpose.
Today, we mainly use coasters to help protect the surface of a table from condensation and moisture. This layer of protection also helps in protecting surfaces from being burned by hot beverages. Many modern coasters are made from paper, cork, and wood – all highly absorbable materials. Glass, while not being noteworthy for whisking away condensation, at least offers a layer of protection. The American Coaster will not absorb moisture; however, it will happily catch the drips, and do so beautifully.
On a personal note, I like to use my American Coasters in other ways – in addition to table top protection. For example, I also use them as toppers for drinks to prevent contamination from airborne particles or insects. This strategy is wonderful for outdoor parties, keeping flies and other insects from getting in or near your drinking glasses.
The Fostoria American Coasters are truly beautiful. Each one is a little piece of art – approximately 3¾” in diameter. As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase on eBay. The following link shows available Coasters on eBay.
