Preliminary identification

Vintage Jergens 'Crema' All-Purpose Face Cream Tin

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A charming lithographed metal cosmetic tin featuring the iconic 'Three Faces' illustration used for Jergens Crema. This pink container represents the post-war boom in accessible luxury and the rise of the 'all-purpose' beauty routine for the modern woman.

Story

Post-WWII marketing shifted to the 'busy housewife' who needed one cream for everything. This tin's trio of faces was designed to show that whether you were blonde, brunette, or redhead, Jergens was your secret to a perfect complexion.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1882, the Andrew Jergens Company became a household name by hiring top-tier illustrators and Hollywood stars like Elizabeth Taylor to endorse their products. They were pioneers in 'lifestyle' branding long before it was a buzzword.

Condition & Value

The lithography on the lid shows minor surface scratches and some light pitting, but the colors remain remarkably vibrant. The absence of major dents or heavy oxidation on the 'Jergens' script preserves its display value. Minor wear reduces value by about 20% compared to mint examples.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

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.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.