Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a wonderfully preserved, circular lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring a striking Art Deco geometric sunburst design. The lid proudly displays the monogram and name of the College Bookstore Association (C.B.A.) Western States District, while the underside retains its original paper label guaranteeing the ribbon for an 'Underwood' typewriter.
Story
During the mid-20th century, college bookstores formed regional cooperatives to supply students with custom-branded essentials. This tin was a daily companion for a student typing out term papers on a trusty Underwood typewriter.
Maker / Origin
The College Bookstore Association (C.B.A.) was an organization designed to help university bookstores pool resources and distribute academic supplies. While the tin's metal lithography was likely contracted to a major packaging manufacturer of the era, the branding was exclusively tailored for student cooperative stores in the Western United States.
Condition & Value
The tin is in very good vintage condition. The lithographed lid shows minor edge wear, light oxidation, and surface scratching consistent with age. The paper label on the reverse is exceptionally well-preserved with only minor discoloration and no major tearing, which significantly helps its value.
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.