Overview
This is a vibrant 'pocket museum' of American commercial art, featuring rare die-cut shapes, iconic brand mascots, and classic pin-up illustrations.
1Identify
Preliminary identification
Collection of Vintage Mid-Century Matchbook Covers, c. 1935-1955
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
In the 1940s, a person's pockets were a rotating gallery of the places they'd been and the products they trusted.
Maker / Origin
While the brands advertised are famous, the real stars are the lithographers at companies like Diamond Match Co. and Lion Match Co.
Condition & Value
The covers have been 'flattened' (matches removed), which is the standard for collectors to prevent fire hazards and acid damage from the match heads. Individual common covers sell for $1-$3, but 'Girlie' pin-ups and unique die-cuts like the B&O or the Piper Cub can fetch $10-$20 each to the right specialist.
Research
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