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Description

Manhattan Project Glass
Manhattan Project Hanford Site
Southeastern Washington, USA

This massive specimen of "Manhattan Project Glass" originates from the Hanford Facility in Washington State, a principal site of Plutonium production during World War II. Developed to shield scientists from radiation, this material was often used for windows at the iconic location. Such artifacts occupy a unique position, representing both scientific innovation and world history.

Weighing an extraordinary 32.5 pounds (14.7 kilograms), this example is notable for both its scale and its vibrant electric yellow coloration. The surface exhibits fine translucency, allowing light to penetrate and illuminate the interior with a saturated glow. Diagnostic conchoidal fracturing is evident along its naturally broken faces, producing curved, shell-like surfaces characteristic of glass formed under high-temperature conditions. The rough, unpolished form preserves sharp, well-defined edges and the raw physical nature of its dense 70 percent Lead Oxide composition.

Large, visually compelling examples of Manhattan Project Glass are increasingly appreciated not only as scientific "curiosities" but also as major historical artifacts tied directly to one of the most consequential technological undertakings of the 20th Century. This superlative specimen combines impressive mass, striking color, and a documented association with the Hanford site, offering a powerful and tangible connection to the dawn of the atomic age. Due to its substantial weight and numerous sharp edges, it is recommended that the specimen be handled with care and that suitable protective gloves be worn.
Measurements: 10.71 x 6.30 x 3.66 inches (27.20 x 16.00 x 9.30 cm)


Estimate: $5,000 - up.

Condition Report*: Condition report available upon request.
*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Bidding Begins Approx.
April
8th Wednesday
Auction Dates
April
29th Wednesday
Proxy Bidding Begins Approx. 
6 Days
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: N/A
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 174
Auction Type
Signature®:  Heritage Live®:After Internet bidding closes, live bidding will take place through www.HA.com/Live. Your secret maximum bid placed prior to the live event will compete against the live bids. To maximize your chances of winning, enter realistic secret maximum bids on our site. Many of our proxy bidders are successful at winning lots in these auctions, and usually below their secret maximum. You can also place last minute bids directly with us by e-mailing Bid@HA.com or calling 1-866-835-3243. (Important note: Due to software and Internet latency, live bids may not register in time, so enter realistic proxy bids.)

Signature® Floor Sessions
Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session. During the live auction event, bidding in person is encouraged, and Heritage Live includes streaming audio and often video during the event.
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