Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
An incredibly rare, early 20th-century lithographed tin advertising tray promoting Ruhstaller's Gilt Edge Lager of Sacramento. The tray features a charming, romanticized illustration of a couple sharing a quiet moment, with the gentleman holding a bottle of Gilt Edge Lager and a filled glass.
Story
In 1900s Sacramento, Frank Ruhstaller was the undisputed king of beer. This tray was designed to sit on saloon tables, enticing patrons with a scene of domestic bliss fueled by Gilt Edge Lager before Prohibition wiped out the brewery.
Maker / Origin
Frank Ruhstaller, a Swiss immigrant, arrived in California during the Gold Rush era and established one of the most successful brewing empires in the West. His brewery was famous for using high-quality local Sacramento Valley hops, helping to put California beer on the national map.
Condition & Value
The tray shows significant signs of age and wear, including noticeable paint loss, flaking, and scratching across the central image, particularly on the figures' faces and clothing. There is visible surface oxidation (rusting) along the rim and within the scratched areas.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.