Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a beautifully preserved lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring the 'Superba' brand line. Produced by the legendary Underwood Corporation, it showcases a striking geometric, late Art Deco to early Mid-Century Modern graphic design in shades of blue, cream, and silver.
Story
Introduced during the post-WWII office boom, this tin held the lifeblood of mid-century communication. Before digital screens, every business letter, love note, and great American novel relied on these inked fabric ribbons. This tiny container represents the golden age of the physical office.
Maker / Origin
The Underwood Typewriter Company, founded in 1895, revolutionized the writing world by introducing the first widely successful 'visible writing' typewriter, allowing typists to see what they were typing as they typed it. By the mid-20th century, the company had rebranded as the Underwood Corporation, expanding its manufacturing footprint to Burlington, New Jersey.
Condition & Value
The tin is in very good vintage condition. The top lithographed lid shows excellent color retention with only minor edge wear and light surface scratches. The bottom shows some expected scuffing and light oxidation, but the stamped text remains highly legible. The interior condition is unverified.
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.