Identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
The item is a lithographed tin cigar box for 'Little Tom Cigars'. The design features distinct Art Deco geometric corner motifs and typography, strongly pointing to the 1920s-1940s era. The text 'FACTORY No. 471, 1st DIST. OF PA' indicates it was produced in Pennsylvania.
Story
'Little Tom' cigars were produced in the early to mid-20th century, with this specific tin originating from Factory No. 471 in the 1st District of Pennsylvania, a major historical hub for cigar manufacturing. The Art Deco geometric lithography is characteristic of 1920s-1930s packaging design, though the brand and this style of tin likely persisted into the 1940s. Vintage tobacco tins are a staple of the advertising and tobacciana collector markets, moving steadily on broad e-commerce platforms.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
Based on the provided details, the tin shows significant wear consistent with its age and utilitarian nature. Visible surface scratches, darkening of the patina, and interior rust are present. The partial blue tax stamp adds character but is worn.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Vintage tobacco tins are a staple of the advertising and tobacciana collector markets, moving steadily on broad e-commerce platforms. Mid-tier, regional brands like 'Little Tom' rarely command high premiums unless they are in near-mint condition. Buyers are typically casual collectors, decorators, or nostalgia enthusiasts browsing eBay and Etsy, where condition and visual appeal drive the final price.
▲ Distinctive Art Deco geometric lithography appeals to cross-category design collectors
▲ Presence of the original partial tax stamp adds historical authenticity and display character
▲ Exact brand and era match to established secondary market listings anchors the baseline value
▼ Unverified dimensions — a smaller-than-expected size could push the value toward the $10 floor
▼ Visible interior rust and surface scratching limit the appeal to high-end condition-focused collectors
▼ Lack of verified sold data means the market ceiling is currently defined only by optimistic asking prices
Best Venue
List the item on a broad online marketplace like eBay or Etsy, as this is a common, accessible collectible. A Buy-It-Now format priced around $20-$25 with offers accepted is optimal to capture casual collectors. Ensure exact dimensions and clear photos of all sides are included in the listing to prevent buyer hesitation.
Upside Potential
If the side panels feature rare, unrecorded graphic variations, or if a buyer specifically needs this Pennsylvania factory number to complete a regional collection, the tin could push toward the $30-$40 range seen in the highest optimistic asking prices.
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.