Anheuser-Busch 'A & Eagle' Industrial Printing Plate, c. 1940s-1960s

Story

In 1872, the 'A and Eagle' became one of the first registered trademarks in America. This specific plate was a workhorse of the advertising age, used to stamp the famous logo onto millions of cardboard cases or wooden crates.

Maker / Origin

While the specific foundry is unmarked, this was commissioned for Anheuser-Busch, the brewing giant founded by Eberhard Anheuser and Adolphus Busch. Their marketing genius turned a local St. Louis brewery into a global icon through relentless branding.

Condition & Value

The plate shows significant surface oxidation and 'pitting' consistent with industrial use and age. The curvature remains true, and the relief of the eagle is still sharp. This 'salty' patina is often preferred by industrial decor collectors. Condition reduces value by 20% compared to a polished example.