Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming, square-shaped vintage typewriter ribbon tin featuring a bold navy blue, red, and gold lithographed design. The lid boasts the classic 'Old Town' gothic-style logo, while the reverse side retains its original stamped specifications for a 'Royal #10' typewriter with 'Black Record Medium Inked' ribbon.
Story
During the golden age of office work, Brooklyn was a powerhouse of manufacturing. This tin held the lifeblood of mid-century communication, keeping the keys of a classic Royal No. 10 typewriter striking crisp and clear.
Maker / Origin
The Old Town Ribbon & Carbon Company was established in Brooklyn, New York, and became a prominent manufacturer of office supplies during the mid-20th century. Known for their high-quality inked ribbons and carbon papers, their beautifully designed tins became iconic staples of American office desks.
Condition & Value
The tin shows moderate surface scratching, minor paint loss, and some adhesive residue on the reverse side. The lithographed colors remain bright and the text is highly legible. The presence of wear is typical for a utilitarian object of this age. Value is driven primarily by graphic appeal, brand, and condition.
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.