What is goofus glass?

Goofus glass is mold-blown or pressed glassware with cold-painted decorations made in the first quarter of the 20th century. The unfired paint, which was predominantly gold mixed with green or red, typically flakes away from the glass easily.

Common goofus glass items include bowls, plates, vases and candle holders, often with floral or fruit decorations. These items were commonly given as prizes at carnivals or as premiums by movie theaters, gas stations and other businesses. The Indiana and Jefferson glass companies made many of these pieces, as did the Dugan and Northwood companies before they started producing iridescent carnival glass.