Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A beautifully preserved, circular lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring the vibrant red, white, and black 'Carnation' brand design. The underside details that this specific tin housed a medium-inked black record ribbon designed for the iconic Royal #10 typewriter.
Story
In the mid-20th century, the typewriter was the beating heart of global commerce and literature. This tiny tin didn't just hold inked fabric; it carried the physical fuel for novels, love letters, and daily business contracts.
Maker / Origin
Miller-Bryant-Pierce was a prominent manufacturer of carbon paper and typewriter ribbons based in Aurora, Illinois. By the mid-20th century, they operated as a division of Smith-Corona Marchant Inc., one of the giants of the office technology revolution.
Condition & Value
The tin is in excellent vintage condition. The lithographed lid shows very minor surface scratching and almost no paint loss or rust, which is rare for utility tins of this age. The underside printing is completely legible and clean. Excellent condition like this commands a premium from graphic design collectors.
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.