Question:

Hi,

I recently found this crock right out of an estate and have never seen this lip before? It came with a button pedal lid. Also has an extra oval and hand written 4 on side. Any info. is greatly appreciated. Thanks

Answer:

I have not seen a Red Wing crock with a rim like this.  My guess is that it was produced to hold a Red Wing Perfection or Success filter on top of it.  Also the  Red Wing (ski)) oval being stencilled on the back just under the lid is a first for me as well.  As far as value, a perfect Red Wing 20 gallon crock with 4 birch leaves with excellent markings and ski oval is valued at $250.  Yours with weaker markings, a crows foot type hairline, but with a ski oval on the back I think would balance things out and keep the value in the area of $250.  The cobalt 4 does not raise or lower it’s value.  Hope this helps.  Al Kohlman

Update November 2013 from an RWCS member:

I have had these crocks before with the thick ‘cupped’ lip.  These crocks were used by clinics and labs to store samples in.  The thick ‘cupped’ lip was then filled with a liquid and the lid was set on it.  This supposedly formed a water tight seal.

The Mayo clinic in Rochester had a lot of Red Wing crocks that they stored ‘things’ in.  I have seen this lip on 20 gallon wing crocks & 10 gallon water coolers (no spigot hole).  I have not seen a birchleaf crock with this lip – so this is kind of a neat piece. – Greg