Description
Collect a piece of 19th‑century medical history with this set of four clear glass patent medicine bottles. Each bottle is unique – from a worm‑oil syrup with a long‑standing Philadelphia pedigree to a chemist’s standard “Wellcome” blend – all in excellent vintage condition. Whether you’re a collector of old‑world remedies or a curious hobbyist, this lot offers a fascinating snapshot of the era’s “quack” medicine.
History of Patent Medicines
During the late 1800s, patent medicines were the go‑to cure‑alls for aches, pains, and everything in between. Produced by small companies and often marketed with colorful claims, they were sold in distinctive glass bottles that bore embossed markings, company names, and sometimes elaborate labels. These bottles are now prized for their historical significance and aesthetic appeal.
Bottle 1
Size: 4 ¾″ tall × 1 ½″ wide
Embossing: Front – “oz” & “ml” marks
Notes: Clear glass
Bottle 2
Size: 4 ½″ tall × 1″ diameter
Embossing: Front – “Bumstead’s worm syrup standard since 1855 C A Voorhees MD Philadelphia”
Notes: Classic worm‑oil syrup; an example of Philadelphia patent‑medicine packaging
Bottle 3
Size: 3 ¼″ tall × 1 ¾″ wide
Embossing: Bottom – “wellcome chemworks 105”
Notes: Likely a chemist’s standard mixture; the mark indicates the manufacturer and date range (late 19th century)
Bottle 4
Size: 2 ¾″ tall × ¾″ diameter
Embossing: None
Notes: Cap included (not cork; appears to be a burnt‑orange, clay‑like material—likely a paper or early plastic/latex lid)
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