Overview
A heavy-duty industrial vessel designed for the transport of raw milk from farm to creamery, featuring a classic mushroom-style lid and reinforced side handles.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A heavy-duty industrial vessel designed for the transport of raw milk from farm to creamery, featuring a classic mushroom-style lid and reinforced side handles.
Story
Before the advent of bulk tank trucks, these cans were the lifeblood of the rural economy, often left at the end of farm lanes for 'milk runs' in the early morning mist.
Maker / Origin
While often produced by industrial metalworks like the Solar-Sturges Mfg. Co. or Buhl Stamping, these cans were the anonymous workhorses of the agricultural world.
Condition & Value
The piece shows significant surface oxidation and rust, particularly around the lid and the base, which is consistent with outdoor storage. While the rust adds character for garden use, any structural 'rust-through' holes in the bottom would reduce its value for indoor use or as a functional umbrella stand.
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.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375