Best Of The West Live Auction (November 13, 2026 5:30 PM PT)

Circa 1863–1865, applied top, quart. These jars are the earliest Western fruit jars and may have been among the first bottles blown in California, occurring in both iron pontiled and smooth base examples. They were produced in pint, quart, and half–gallon sizes, with fewer than ten examples known across all sizes in any condition. Due to their early manufacture, many exhibit a beautiful Western fire aqua color, as seen in this example. Albert P. Brayton was an early California pioneer in the foundry business, founding what would eventually become Pacific Iron Works, and is believed to have manufactured the iron Haller–type closure used on these jars. In 1863, Brayton advertised himself as the sole agent for "Haller's Patent Airtight Fruit–Jars." It is possible that he licensed the closure, commissioned a jar bearing his embossed name, and contracted the recently established Pacific Glass Works to produce a small run around 1863. Undoubtedly the holy grail of Western fruit jars, the A.P. Brayton is coveted by both Western and Eastern jar collectors alike. This may be the only undamaged smooth base quart known.

Description & Condition: Rich deep aqua color. Two tiny flea bites to the lip, along with some very light exterior scratching. Two small dips in the lip appear to be manufacturing crudity. All are minor distractions, noted for accuracy. An impressive example that displays beautifully.

Min. Bid $7,500 - Est. $15,000–$25,000