Question:
I have a 1 gallon Red Wing Stoneware Union Mason Fruit Jar, with patent date Jan. 24, 1899 stamped on the bottom. It is in perfect condition, except that it has a Ball zinc lid on it. I think originally the jar would have had a different zinc screw on lid and a rubber gasket. Could you please tell me what the lid would have been and if you know of a source for the correct lid, so that I can restore my jug to original condition? It is my understanding that with the original lid, this jug is worth about $850. Could you please verify that for me? (Fun fact: I found this jug in a hillside junk pile when I was a teenager, while picking with my father. The lid was missing when I found it)! Thank you very much! Deb

Answer: Deb, you are correct on the value give or take $50 if the Red Wing Mason fruit jar is in perfect condition. The lid would not really matter as they are not hard to find. In fact the question right after yours shows the shield fruit jar with the correct lid. The lid is the old zinc fruit jar lids. You can go to eBay and find a boat load. Al Kohlman