Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a charming, circular lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring a striking black and gold color scheme. The lid showcases a classic 'First Prize' hand-and-torch medal graphic, while the underside retains its original paper label indicating it was made for an 'Underwood Black Record Medium' typewriter.
Story
In the 1930s, Portland's Stenno Ribbon & Carbon Mfg. Co. fueled the Pacific Northwest's bustling offices. This tin held the ink-soaked fabric that typed out countless business letters, legal documents, and personal stories during the golden age of manual typewriters.
Maker / Origin
The Stenno Ribbon & Carbon Manufacturing Company was a regional powerhouse in office supplies based in Portland, Oregon. Operating during the mid-20th century, they competed with national giants by emphasizing quality, as proudly symbolized by their 'Gold Medal' branding.
Condition & Value
The tin shows minor paint loss, light scratching, and edge wear consistent with age and use. The bottom paper label has some staining and paper loss on the left side, but the text remains highly legible. The overall structural integrity is excellent with no major dents.
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.