I was trying to research the value of some 30 pieces of Steuben and was quite puzzling and your article about the Steuben John James Audubon collection, helped me solve the mystery. The plate in question on the left and original on the right:

The mystery was that it only measured 6″ in diameter, not the normal 10″. Also I had quite a time tracking the bird until I saw your list and found the Sand Hill Crane. After comparing this plate to the larger ones, I am sure that it was an original Audubon plate which someone did a very good job of removing the outer rim of the plate and reshaping the edge so only upon very close inspection did it looked altered.
The interesting thing is the Steuben signature which as a little elongated but again passable until closely inspected. I guess since these plates sold for $300 each in 1940
it would have been worth it but also rather easily uncovered since this plate was about 40% smaller than original one.

Thought you might find this an interesting story.
To Thomas

Clear Plates Question
Alan, I have a question for Ed Bush and any other members of the club.
It appears our members have a wealth of knowledge on the History of
The Steuben Glass Works.
I own 10 1/2″ clear plates which were purchased by my parents many years
ago at Marshall Fields as Steuben. They are engraved with a Wreath in the center which
is filled with gold leaf and sealed with a cream paint like material.
I have searched our website and found one 10 1/2″ plate #6114.
The mystery is did Fields special order from Steuben to have their artisans embellish
the items. As I recall they had an extensive Steuben section.
I am bringing one to the Symposium……………

John Styler
Prospect Heights, Il