Identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
The item is definitively identified by the prominent molded text 'NEW YORK WORLD'S FAIR 1939' on the rim and the central relief of the Trylon and Perisphere. The material is consistent with molded phenolic resins (Bakelite) typical of souvenir production for this event.
Story
Produced as a souvenir for the 1939 New York World's Fair, which celebrated the 'World of Tomorrow. ' The Trylon and Perisphere were the iconic central structures and symbol of the fair. These ashtrays were mass-produced in early plastics like Bakelite (molded phenolic resin) by companies such as the Accurate Molding Corp of Brooklyn, NY. The market for 1939 New York World's Fair memorabilia is vast but highly stratified. Common souvenirs like ashtrays, spoons, and pins are abundant and trade frequently at low price points.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
The seller notes a prominent 2-inch crack through the middle of the basin. In molded Bakelite, cracks are structurally fatal and cannot be seamlessly repaired. This severe damage heavily impacts the aesthetic and functional value of the piece, relegating it to a collection filler rather than a display piece.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The market for 1939 New York World's Fair memorabilia is vast but highly stratified. Common souvenirs like ashtrays, spoons, and pins are abundant and trade frequently at low price points. Buyers are typically general World's Fair collectors or Art Deco enthusiasts. Condition is paramount; because these items were mass-produced, collectors demand mint or near-mint examples, and damaged pieces struggle to find buyers even at steep discounts.
▲ Explicit 1939 New York World's Fair molded text confirms historical provenance.
▲ Iconic Trylon and Perisphere Art Deco motif appeals to cross-category collectors.
▲ Authentic period Bakelite construction.
▼ Severe 2-inch crack in the basin destroys structural integrity and display value.
▼ High survival rate of this specific souvenir means buyers can easily find mint alternatives.
▼ Missing original wooden base (seen on premium comps) limits upside.
Best Venue
Given the severe damage and low value, this item is best suited for an online marketplace like eBay or Etsy as a 'Buy It Now' listing aimed at entry-level collectors. Price aggressively at $10-$15 and clearly photograph the crack to avoid buyer returns. Alternatively, bundle it with other World's Fair or vintage tobacciana items to make shipping economical.
Upside Potential
There is no realistic upside for this specific piece due to the fatal crack; intact examples in mint condition with their original wooden bases can reach the $75-$110 range, but damaged examples are capped at nominal values.
Also found — market-range context
Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.