Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This is a remarkably well-preserved vintage cardboard box containing an unused Underwood 'Black Record' typewriter ribbon. Manufactured by the legendary Ault & Wiborg company after their acquisition by the Interchemical Corporation, it represents a golden era of American office manufacturing and typography.
Story
In 1928, the printing ink giant Ault & Wiborg was absorbed into what became the Interchemical Corporation. This box carried the vital fuel of mid-century bureaucracy, journalism, and literature, keeping Underwood typewriters typing.
Maker / Origin
Founded in Cincinnati in 1878 by Levi Addison Ault and Frank Bestow Wiborg, the company revolutionized the printing industry with high-quality, chemically stable inks. They became global leaders in ink, carbon paper, and typewriter ribbons, renowned for their striking Art Nouveau advertising posters designed by famous artists like Will Bradley.
Condition & Value
The cardboard box is in excellent vintage condition with sharp corners, minimal scuffing, and very little of the typical fading or ink staining. The text remains crisp and highly legible. Excellent preservation of the packaging commands the top end of the value range.
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.