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

Circa 1867–1869, smooth base, 9 1/4". Variant 1. An iconic Western bitters and one of the few figural bottles produced on the West Coast. Louis Lacour trademarked these bottles in 1867 in the shape of a lighthouse. The unusual name "Sarsapariphere" appears to have been a proprietary trade name associated with Lacour's sarsaparilla–based blood purifier, although the exact meaning and origin of the term remain unknown. There are three recognized variants of Lacour's bottles, this being the first variant. Long considered one of the most desirable of all Western bitters, the Lacour's is highly sought after by both Eastern and Western collectors alike. Collectors are particularly drawn to the vivid colors, crude glass, and distinctive figural form for which these bottles are known. With its early date and iconic design, it remains a cornerstone bottle in advanced collections.

Description & Condition: Vibrant apple green. Displays a large, shallow, partially open interior bubble, likely as made. A minuscule flake to the neck with an associated bruise measuring approximately 1/16", along with a minor 1/16" flea bite on the body, are the only notable issues. Remarkably, this example is otherwise free of the larger cracks, checks, bruises, and fissures commonly encountered on Lacour’s bottles. An exceptional example in fantastic condition and color.

Min. Bid $6,000 - Est. $12,000–$20,000