On offer is a charming and increasingly rare set of three antique “penny lick” ice cream glasses, dating from the late Victorian era to the early 20th century. These nostalgic glass vessels were once a staple of seaside and street-side refreshment vendors across Britain, used to serve small scoops of ice cream for the cost of a penny — giving them their memorable name.

Each glass in this collection features a thick base and conical or bowl-shaped upper cup, designed to give the illusion of a generous portion while holding only a modest amount. This marketing tactic, along with hygiene concerns, led to the decline of penny licks in the early 20th century. As such, surviving examples in good condition are now highly collectible.

The tallest glass stands at approximately 4.5 inches, while the smallest is 3.5 inches. All three glasses remain in good antique condition, with no major chips or cracks, retaining their clarity and historical charm. This set includes subtle variations in shape and stem design, offering a delightful study in handmade glass production from the late 1800s to early 1900s.

📌 Key Features:
✅ Set of 3 original penny lick glasses (Victorian to early 20th century)
✅ Varying forms – classic thick-glass penny lick style with slight design variation
✅ Heights range from approx. 3.5 to 4.5 inches
✅ Excellent antique condition – no cracks or damage noted
✅ Rare and desirable examples of early street food serving ware
✅ Display beautifully together – ideal for collectors or vintage kitchen decor

🧊 History of the Penny Lick Glass

Used widely in the 19th and early 20th centuries, penny lick glasses were an ingenious yet controversial piece of street food history. Their thick, concave design was meant to exaggerate the portion size of the ice cream, while also reducing melting time. By the early 1900s, health concerns — particularly the inability to clean them properly between uses — led to their ban in most British cities, replaced by edible cones. Today, original penny licks are treasured by collectors of Victorian glassware and culinary antiques alike.

✅ Perfect For:

✔️ Collectors of antique and Victorian glass
✔️ Lovers of culinary or kitchenalia history
✔️ Ice cream enthusiasts & vintage display decorators
✔️ Unique historical gift or conversation piece

This is a rare opportunity to acquire three original antique penny lick glasses — each a piece of British street food heritage. Whether displayed in a kitchen, collection, or museum context, they offer a tangible link to a fascinating past.

📦 We ship worldwide – Shipping costs will be based on your location and chosen service, but you will always see the full postage total before confirming your order.

🛒 Don’t miss the chance to scoop up this set of rare penny lick glasses – add a touch of Victorian charm to your collection today!

stock code 120525