Antique amber apothecary bottle labeled “1000 Tablets – Calomel, 1-10 Grain (English) (Pink)” manufactured by The S. E. Massengill Company, Bristol Tenn.–Va. Professionally packed for fragile shipment. Ships next business day. Full refund if damaged in transit.
This authentic early 20th-century pharmacy stock bottle still contains its original tablets and retains the original cork stopper with the Massengill company seal. Large druggist bottles like this were used behind the counter in pharmacies and doctors’ offices to dispense medications individually to patients. The paper label remains intact and clearly readable, displaying the original dosing instructions and manufacturer information, which adds strong historical character.
Calomel (mercurous chloride) was widely used in 19th and early 20th century medicine as a purgative and cathartic. While later abandoned due to mercury content, these bottles are now highly collectible pieces of medical and pharmaceutical history. The label’s instructions — recommending tablets every hour until cathartic action occurs — illustrate the dramatically different medical practices of the period.
The bottle itself is classic pharmacy amber glass designed to protect light-sensitive medicines. It features a square base, short neck, and original cork with printed Massengill branding on the seal. A particularly appealing feature is the presence of the original pink tablets still inside, which collectors value because most surviving examples were emptied decades ago.
Condition is very good for a bottle of this age. The original label shows normal age toning and some staining but remains intact and fully legible. The glass is free of cracks with typical light surface wear consistent with early pharmacy use. The cork stopper and seal are still present and original, which significantly increases collectibility. Tablets remain inside and have not been disturbed.
This is a striking display piece for collectors of antique medicine bottles, apothecary jars, pharmacy advertising, or early medical history. It also works beautifully in cabinets of curiosities, medical displays, and vintage pharmacy décor.
Approximate date: early 1900s (circa 1905–1925).
Height: approx. 3.5 inches Material: amber glass bottle with paper label and cork stopper Manufacturer: The S. E. Massengill Co., Bristol Tennessee–Virginia Contents: original tablets present (for display only)
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