Vintage 1976 Early Times American Revolution Bicentennial Ceramic Whisky Decante

Vintage 1976 Early Times American Revolution Bicentennial Ceramic Whisky Decanter – U.S.A.

This yeararks 250 year anniversary so we know this item is 50 years old!

Displayed with other items illustration only for sale separately

19 cm wide

18 cm tall

6 cm depth

A wonderfully bold piece of 1970s Americana, produced to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States and the American Revolution.

This substantial cream-glazed ceramic whisky decanter has a broad, flattened flask form with silver-tone edging around the shoulders. The front carries a colourful scene depicting George Washington and his troops crossing the icy Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776, framed by the words “American Revolution Bicentennial”, the dates 1776–1976 and a striking star-bordered U.S.A. panel.

The reverse retains its original decorative paper label, headed “Early Times Bicentennial Limited Edition”. The label recounts Washington’s crossing and the subsequent surprise attack on Hessian troops at Trenton, alongside advertising for Early Times Kentucky Bourbon.

The original cork stopper is still present, making this an appealing display piece for a home bar, study, cabinet or collection of American advertising and commemorative ware. The decanter is empty and is offered as a decorative collectable.

Maker History

Early Times whisky was created in Kentucky in 1860 by John Henry “Jack” Beam. Its name referred to the traditional early methods of whisky production, including small-tub mashing and distillation in copper stills over open fires. By the time this commemorative decanter was issued in 1976, Early Times was owned and produced by Brown-Forman in Louisville, Kentucky. The original filled edition is recorded as containing 4/5 quart of whisky at 86 US proof. Brown-Forman later sold the Early Times brand to Sazerac in 2020.

The manufacturer of the ceramic bottle itself has not been identified from the visible markings, so it is best described as an official Early Times Distillery promotional decanter rather than attributing the pottery to an unconfirmed maker.

Condition

In genuine vintage condition with age-related wear. The colourful front decoration remains attractive and displays well. There is rubbing, tarnishing and some loss to the silver-tone edging.

The original paper label on the reverse has considerable age-toning, rubbing, creasing and losses around the edges. The cork stopper is worn and stained, with residue and discolouration around the neck and stopper opening. There also appears to be a small area of wear or glaze loss at the neck rim. No obvious cracks are visible to the main ceramic body in the photographs.

Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Date: 1976

Maker/brand: The Early Times Distillery Co., Brown-Forman

Material: Glazed ceramic with cork stopper

Country of origin: USA

Contents: Empty

Suggested Price

£27.50

An exact U.S.A. version was recently offered in the UK at £25 without attracting a bid, while other UK and American examples have been advertised at roughly £25 to £35 depending on condition. The surviving stopper and strong front image help this example, although the worn rear label prevents it reaching the higher collector prices.