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Manhattan Project Glass. Manhattan Project Hanford Site. Southeastern Washington, USA.
Description
Manhattan Project GlassManhattan 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.
Auction Info
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid (minimum $49) per lot.
This lot is in: 1 -
Signature® Floor Session - Nature & Science Signature Auction (Live Floor, Live Phone, Mail, Fax, Internet, and Heritage Live):
(Lots 72001-72280) - 11:00 AM Central Time, Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
[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.]
Exhibition Viewing Times, Title Page, Floor Session and License Information
Additional Location Info:
Heritage Auctions - Dallas
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261
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