Question:
Stoneware: I have a early 5gal. salt glazed blue dec.jug, and appears to be Red Wing. It has the scripted 5 designation, and the tornado or also known as the bee sting decoration. Has just some even patina use stain, all else in excellent condition. It does have a small capital "G" stamped near the base on the left side. Photo’s enclosed. Would like to know as much as you can tell me, and the general value? Thanks-Jim.

Answer: Jim, I cannot see enough of the jug to be able to tell you if it is Red Wing or not. The letter "G" stamped into the base of the jug leads me to believe it is not Red Wing. Red Wing was not known for stamping letters into the base for their salt-glazed jugs. I would need to see the entire jug, the back of the handle and spout to know for sure.. However, lets say it is indeed Red Wing. The discoloration will greatly detract from it’s value as collectors are wanting the even carmel salt glaze. Also, the decoration (which does not look to be Red Wing, but have been fooled before) is not as appealing as the leaves or rib cage jugs. My best guess with what I can see, I would place the value between $150 & $200. Al Kohlman