Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming, square-shaped lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring a striking green, red, and gold color scheme. This specific tin was custom-stamped to hold a 'Black Record, Medium Inked' ribbon tailored for the iconic Corona No. 4 portable typewriter.
Story
During the golden age of typing, Brooklyn's Old Town Ribbon & Carbon Co. fueled the offices of America. This tin once held the vital ink ribbon that allowed a writer to stamp their thoughts onto paper, one keystroke at a time.
Maker / Origin
Founded in Brooklyn, New York, the Old Town Ribbon & Carbon Company was a major manufacturer of office supplies during the mid-20th century. They were famous for their high-quality carbon papers and inked ribbons, recognizable by their distinctive 'Old Town' gothic-style branding and vibrant packaging.
Condition & Value
The tin shows minor edge wear, light scratching, and some paint loss consistent with age and use. There is prominent handwritten marker on the top lid ('RUBBER' and 'HEEL') suggesting it was repurposed as a utility storage container. The lithography remains bright and legible.
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.