Overview
A vibrant example of mid-century lithographed advertising, this tin was designed for the burgeoning frozen food market of the post-war era.
Preliminary identification
Vintage Hood River Brand Frozen Strawberry Tin, c. 1945-1955
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Post-World War II America saw a radical transformation of the kitchen as home freezers became a standard household appliance for the first time.
Maker / Origin
The Hood River brand is synonymous with the Apple Growers Association, a cooperative formed in 1913 to help Oregon farmers compete on a national scale.
Condition & Value
The lithography on the main body remains remarkably bright and legible with minimal fading. There is significant oxidation and pitting on the top and bottom rims, which is expected for a kitchen item exposed to freezer moisture. This wear is typical and reduces the value by about 20% compared to a 'new old stock' example.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
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.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD