1Identify

Preliminary identification

Phila-Penn 2-Gallon Motor Oil Tin, c. 1960s-1970s

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A substantial two-gallon lithographed steel oil tin featuring the iconic 'Phila-Penn' branding and a bold orange sunburst.

Story

Pennsylvania was the site of the world's first successful oil well in 1859, and for over a century, 'Pennsylvania Grade' was the most coveted label in the automotive world.

Maker / Origin

Phila-Penn was a regional brand likely produced for or by an independent distributor in the Philadelphia area.

Condition & Value

The tin shows significant 'honest wear' consistent with garage storage, including surface oxidation on the top and bottom rims and some staining to the lithography. 2-gallon 'bulk' cans are popular with Petroliana collectors but generally command lower prices than the more display-friendly 1-quart cans.

Research

Add anything that could sharpen the brief.

Improve the quality of research by sharing any corrections, provenance, details, marks, dimensions, or any other element that could shed light on the piece.

Add any photos or details that could shed light on the piece.

Identify another item