Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a charming, square-shaped lithographed metal typewriter ribbon tin featuring a vibrant teal and cream Art Deco design. The paper label on the lid indicates it originally held a 'Woodstock' brand 'Black Record Medium' ribbon, manufactured by one of the premier office supply companies of the early 20th century.
Story
In the 1920s, the clatter of typewriters defined the modern office. This tiny tin held the ink ribbon that typed out business empires, love letters, and daily news. It is a physical survivor of the early 20th-century paper revolution.
Maker / Origin
The Columbia Ribbon & Carbon Manufacturing Company was established in the early 1900s and became a major employer in Glen Cove, Long Island. They specialized in high-quality carbon papers and inked ribbons, essential fuels for the rapidly expanding corporate world of the pre-computer era.
Condition & Value
The tin shows moderate wear consistent with age, including surface scratches, edge wear, minor oxidation, and staining on the paper label. The lithographed teal paint remains relatively bright, and the text is fully legible. This honest wear reduces value by about 20% compared to a mint-condition example.
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.