Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A wonderful vintage circular lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring the vibrant orange, black, and white 'Carnation' brand design. The underside features stamped ink details indicating it was made for the 'IBM Electromatic' typewriter with 'Black-Green Record' ink.
Story
Introduced during the golden age of office typing, this tin represents a time when even mundane office supplies were treated as art. The 'Carnation' line promised 'The Pink of Perfection' to secretaries typing up mid-century business history.
Maker / Origin
Miller-Bryant-Pierce was an early pioneer in carbon paper and typewriter ribbon manufacturing, established in Aurora, Illinois. They were eventually acquired by L.C. Smith & Corona Typewriters Inc., cementing their place in the history of American office technology.
Condition & Value
The tin shows moderate wear consistent with age and use, including surface scratches, minor paint loss, and localized rust spotting along the edges and bottom rim. The lithographed graphics remain bright and highly legible.
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.