Stoneware Antique Mineral Water Bottle from Selters Germany

This antique bottle held a brand of mineral water called Selters, sourced from wells in the area of Selters, Germany. Bubbly Selters water was popular for centuries; in 1787, over a million bottles were exported all over the world. Our words "seltzer water" were derived from this name. We've included a photo of an almost identical bottle from the 19th century that was found when Fort Snelling in Minnesota (!) was excavated.

The salt-glazed pottery bottle is marked on the side of the bottle opposite the high pulled handle. Stamped into the clay is a circle with a standing crowned lion in the center surrounded by the word SELTER. Beneath that are the words HERZOGTHUM NASSAU. {Duchy of Nassau}.” The symbol is part of the ancestral coat of arms of Nassau, an independent state between 1806 and 1866. The bottle was exported during those 60 years, probably circa 1840's.

Another mark is stamped in ornate script under the handle: The letter W (probably stands for "wasser/water") and under that "Num. 95" (the abbreviation of the German word 'nummer' /number). The 95 is probably the mold number. The bottle stands 9 inches tall; the base measures 3 inches in diameter. Across the handle measures 3 1/2 inches and it weighs 1 1/2 pounds. There are old chips on the bottom rim and a couple on the lip (which often happened when the tight cork was pried out). Otherwise, this bottle is in excellent condition, well-made with a clear finish and concise marks. It's a handsome display piece and a nice find for the bottle collector.

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