Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a collectible hinged lithographed tinplate tobacco box manufactured for 'Little Tom Cigars'. Featuring striking geometric Art Deco corner motifs and period typography, it retains its original factory tax notice and partial revenue stamp, capturing the golden age of American commercial graphic design.
Story
Pennsylvania rolled over a third of America's cigars in the 1920s. This pocket-friendly tin protected cigars from crushing while doubling as a stylish Art Deco accessory.
Maker / Origin
Manufactured under Pennsylvania Internal Revenue Factory No. 471 in the 1st District, this piece represents the thriving cigar manufacturing hubs of southeastern Pennsylvania (primarily Philadelphia and surrounding counties), which dominated the domestic tobacco trade in the early 20th century.
Condition & Value
Fair to good vintage condition. Shows surface oxidation, scattered paint loss, edge scuffs, and interior rust pitting, but retains legible typography and intact factory text. Moderate surface wear typical of age reduces value by roughly 40-50% compared to mint examples.
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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.