10 Rare Pencil Cases and School Supplies Collectors Look For

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Early 1980s Disney Cartoon Metal Pencil Case

This metal pencil case was issued in the early 1980s featuring beloved cartoon characters from that era. The lip print and original hinge remain intact, a rare find after decades of use. Many were discarded or damaged over time but survivors like this attract collectors who appreciate childhood memorabilia.

It captures a cultural moment when school accessories doubled as fan merchandise for popular media. The metal construction gives it longevity compared to plastic alternatives. On resale markets it often fetches about $95

Limited Edition 1970s European Mechanical Pencil Tin Set

This set includes a tin case housing several mechanical pencils and spare lead tubes produced in Europe in the 1970s. The case bears a subtle emblem from the maker and keeps interior foam compartments intact.

It highlights a time when mechanical pencils were gaining popularity over traditional wood pencils among students and artists. The complete set including lead refills adds to its collectible value among aficionados of writing instruments. Because full sets seldom survive intact the going price for one is usually about $200

1960s Soviet Era Wooden Pencil Box

This wooden pencil box was manufactured during the 1960s in the Soviet Union and shows a school insignia on its lid surface. The craftsmanship is simple yet sturdy reflecting mass‑produced school gear of that era. The wood grain remains visible despite decades of storage.

Collectors interested in Cold War era everyday items often seek this box for its historical resonance. Its utilitarian nature adds to the charm for those collecting international school supplies. On auction listings it commonly sells for around $80

1990s Licensed Comic Book Character Plastic Pencil Case

This plastic pencil case was issued in the 1990s featuring licensed comic book characters printed on its exterior. Many such items were discarded after use but surviving units with intact print and clean interior attract collectors. It evokes nostalgia for early youth and fandom culture tied to school life.

The plastic is thick and resists brittle cracking typical of cheap supplies from that period. People who collect pop culture school gear often look for cases with minimal wear. It usually trades at a value near $60.

Vintage Bakelite Pencil Sharpener

The Bakelite remains glossy and shows no cracks. It reflects a time when durable synthetic materials replaced fragile glass or wood for everyday school tools.

Collectors value such items because they illustrate transitions in material science used in educational gear. The original case often features a simple label still legible after decades. A complete set tends to go for about $70

1980s Japanese Pencil Case

This pencil case comes from Japan in the 1980s with decals of early anime characters adorning its surface. Many similar cases lost decals or faded over time but this one retains sharp color and smooth finish. It represents the rising influence of anime culture among students during that decade.

Fans of vintage Japanese school supplies prize such pieces for their visual appeal and period authenticity. The plastic is robust enough that the latch still works properly. Typical market price for one in fine condition is around $110

Rare Fountain Pen and Pencil Twin Set Box from 1950s Germany

This set contains a fountain pen and a wooden pencil stored inside a small decorative box produced in Germany during the 1950s. The pen nib and pencil remain unused indicating the set was likely reserved or gifted rather than used day to day. The box shows fine workmanship and elegant style typical of midcentury German stationery sets.

Collectors who appreciate fine writing instruments with historical provenance often seek such boxed sets. The dual writing instruments plus original packaging adds significant collectible value. Resale typically lands around $230

1980s Collectors Edition Ruler and Protractor Box

This box contains a full set of rulers protractors and drawing tools from a limited edition run in the 1980s. The exterior shows unique graphics related to geometry or design education of that period. The interior still holds original tool placements though some pieces may show light wear.

This set reflects the style of teaching drawing and geometry before digital tools became widespread. Collectors who appreciate pre digital drafting tools often seek intact sets like this. Its typical market price is around $75

Vintage Metal Pencil Box with Embossed Floral Pattern

This metal pencil box dates to the 1930s featuring an embossed floral pattern on its lid giving it a decorative flair beyond mere function. The embossed work remains clear despite decades of handling. It was likely mass produced for school children but few survive in sound condition.

Its artful appearance draws collectors interested in design history and everyday objects from the interwar era. Rust is minimal which enhances its value among collectors focused on metal school gear. A box like this often sells for about $140

1950s German Technical Drawing Pencil Box

 This pencil box was created in Germany for students or draftsmen in the 1950s containing several pencils lead and an eraser. The box retains its original compartments and the pencils show minimal wear indicating limited use. This set offers insight into technical drawing education before digital drafting.

Collectors value such sets because they reflect craftsmanship and educational practices of their time. Original labels remain visible increasing authenticity and appeal. On resale markets this set often commands about $180.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.