Over the last few months, fake pint size SPEAS U-SAVIT jars have begun appearing on eBay and elsewhere. Fortunately, these fakes, like most other glassware fakes, are fairly easy to identify, once you know what to look for. Often sellers do not depict the base of the jar in their auction listings, so if there is any question, be sure and ask for more photos. Below are photos showing the base of fake and original jars side by side. A fellow collector from Tennessee was kind enough to provide the photos and notes below:

1. The fake jar is approximately 1/2 inch taller than the originals. 
2. The stippled panels do not go up as far on the shoulder of the fake.
3. The heel of the real U-Sav It jar is embossed ONE PINT. The fake is unmarked on the heel.
4. The base of the fake jars display noticeable differences in that the text is larger and the base of the fake is missing the 'Trade Mark Reg U.S. Pat Off.'
5. The fake jars have thicker glass in the base. The real jar has a thinner glass in the base.

eBay's format permits only small photos. If you wish to obtain larger full size images, feel free to contact us by email.

While these fakes might possibly be a "collectible of the future", their current value is of course a tiny fraction of the value of an original jar. Therefore, it's important to know whether you're bidding on an original or a modern fake.

In some cases, the fake Speas pint jars (as well as many other kinds of fake collectibles) are listed using the private auction format. The use of private auction format is perfectly legitimate for some types of auctions, such as extremely expensive items and possibly a few other specific cases. The mere fact that a seller has used this format certainly does not in itself mean that something is wrong. However, it's blanket use on modestly priced collectibles, might warrant a little more scrutiny on the part of a potential bidder. eBay's guidelines state: "While there are some cases where private listings are appropriate, such as the sale of high-priced ticket items or approved pharmaceutical products, you should only make your listing private for a specific reason."