Question:
I HAVE A PINK PITCHER MARKED RED WING USA 251. IT HAS A HANDLE THAT GOES FROM THE SIDE TO THE SPOUT STRAIGHT ACROSS. THE BOTTOM HAS RINGS AND LOOKS LIKE BAUER. THIS WAS BOUGHT AT AN ESTATE SALE IN LAS VEGAS OVER 10 YEARS AGO. WHAT IS THE RARITY?? I AM PREPARED TO SELL THIS NOW…THANKS

Answer: The 251 pitcher is part of the Gypsy Trail Hostess Ware line. As you described, the distinctive feature of this pitcher is the long looping handle that starts at the back of the pitcher and goes over the top and ends at the spout. #251 was introduced in 1942. Apparently this long handle had breakage problems because soon the design was revised to include a support bar under the handle about midway. This pitcher was discontinued along with most of the remaining Gypsy Trail line around the end of World War II. The #251 pitcher is fairly uncommon but is not rare. Both versions can be found today and have about the same value, $60-80 in excellent condition.

Larry