Overview
The item is clearly identified by the printed text 'SMITH for President 1928' and features a figural rubber eraser depicting the Democratic candidate Al Smith.
Identification
1928 Al Smith for President Campaign Pencil with Figural Eraser
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Story
This pencil was produced as promotional ephemera for the 1928 U. S. Presidential campaign of Alfred E. Smith, the Democratic nominee. Smith was a historically significant candidate, notable as the first Catholic presidential nominee of a major party and a prominent opponent of Prohibition. While the specific manufacturer is unmarked, it was likely produced by a major American pencil company of the era, such as Eberhard Faber or Dixon.
Maker / Origin
Unattributed
Condition & Value
For vintage pencils of this era, the condition of the rubber eraser is the primary value determinant. Rubber from the 1920s is highly susceptible to dry rot, hardening, and crumbling.
Full Research
See what it's actually worth.
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Market Analysis
The secondary market for early 20th-century political memorabilia remains steady, supported by a dedicated base of historical collectors. Figural items, such as shaped pins or molded erasers, are highly favored over standard printed ephemera. While major candidate items like those from the 1928 election are accessible, pristine condition examples stand out and move quickly on broad marketplaces.
Value Drivers
▲ The figural rubber eraser elevates the piece significantly above standard printed campaign pencils.
▲ Clear, legible 'SMITH for President 1928' stamping confirms exact campaign provenance.
▲ Historical interest in the 1928 election and Al Smith's unique platform maintains steady collector demand.
Concerns
▼ Unverified rubber condition — hardening, cracking, or missing pieces on the 90-year-old eraser would severely reduce value.
▼ Unverified sharpening status — sharpened pencils trade at a notable discount to unsharpened, mint-state examples.
▼ Reliance on asking prices for comps indicates actual clearing prices may be softer.
Best Venue
List on a broad secondary marketplace like eBay, which hosts the largest audience for political memorabilia. Utilize clear, well-lit macro photography focusing on the figural eraser to demonstrate its condition. A Buy-It-Now price of $30-$35 with offers accepted is a practical posture, or start an auction at $15 if a faster sale is preferred.
Upside Potential
If the pencil is completely unsharpened and the 90-year-old rubber eraser remains supple with no cracking, deformation, or dry rot, it could appeal to strict condition-focused collectors and realize the $40 high-end or slightly above.