Here's one of only a few early Hilton Head sodas. According to David Kyle Rakes "Early Sodas of the Carolinas" (2023), there are two variants of the blue Knechtle, one with S.C. under Hilton Head and one like this one that doesn't note the state. According to Rakes, either of the blue Knechtle sodas are "extremely rare," noting that the last 2 bottles reported to be found were in the 1970's. John Knechtle's soda business existed on the island for only a short time near the end of the Civil War, 1864-1865.

The last record I could find of this bottle being sold was the 2015 auction of Rusty Frye's collection where it was offered with an estimate of $1500 - $2000. There are not many known to exist and this is a really nice example. Great glass character, bubbles and a decent mold impression. Applied blob top, smooth-based.

Embossed: JOHN KNECHTLE / HILTON HEAD

Height: 7 3/8"  
Color: medium purple-hued cobalt blue

Condition: Near mint - the bottle is perfect structurally with no chips, cracks, bruises or dings. There is a 1/8" dirt speck encased in a glass bubble on the left shoulder that kinda looks like a small ding but is from manufacturing (see pic below). It looks like it was given a modest polish cleaning, but retains some light haze patches and spotty light scratches. These are pretty picky issues that are mentioned for complete accuracy. It's a super nice example overall.

Reference Number: PL20

Price: Sold