The Rare Pyrex Bowl With A Nature-Inspired Pattern That Collectors Dream Of Finding

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Vintage Pyrex is often sought after by collectors who appreciate the fact that the older pieces not only feature a mid-century modern aesthetic with their designs, but that they're also known for their durability. One such piece is the 505B loaf pan that goes by the name Green Oak Leaf. 

According to the Corning Museum of Glass, this piece was released circa ~1965 as a promotional item, which meant that limited quantities of this style were made available for purchase, making it a rare gem if you're able to find one in the wild. Originally, this piece had no name, with customers eventually dubbing it Pyrex loaf pan in Green Oak Leaf based on the design on the lid. Its number, meanwhile, is 505B.

This lid design features Pyrex's classic white opal ware as the background. In the center is a large oak leaf fully colored in green, seen with three smaller green oak leaves at the bottom and then two outlined leaves. It's a simple yet bold pattern, one that's perfect for fans of nature and the color green, even as the rest of the piece is fully white.

There are a number of rare Pyrex bowls and dishes that collectors dream of finding, and considering how hard it is to find the 550B loaf pan in Green Oak Leaf, even online, this pattern would potentially be one of them. There are currently no loaf pans in this pattern listed for sale on sites such as eBay, Replacements, or Etsy.

Instead, this is the kind of vintage Pyrex pattern to keep an eye out for while you're thrifting at a secondhand shop, a flea market, or even a yard sale. Estate sales and antique markets are also where you might come across this rare find.

With that said, one of these loaf pans recently sold on eBay (also listed as a casserole dish) after being listed for $3,500 in "excellent vintage condition," and without any damage or dishwasher wear. This means that they are still out there waiting to be found.

If you do stumble across this loaf pan and want to confirm the value of your vintage Pyrex find, it's important to check for the correct markings. With this particular loaf pan, check the bottom to make sure it says 505B above "Trade Mark." You should also see Pyrex in all capital letters with the words "Made in U.S.A." and "Ovenware" underneath.

Also, make sure you look the piece over for any cracks, chips, and excessive wash wear, particularly on the lid where the pattern is printed. Since this piece was released in the mid-1960s, there is some concern around possible lead in the paint, which might limit how you use this dish in your kitchen.

However, even if there are some small scratches in the design, it's still an extremely rare find, with an interesting story to tell. With luck, if you do find this vintage piece, the shop won't know just how rare it is — but you'll know. And, perhaps then, you can get it for a bit less than $3,500.