10 Famous Auctions Featuring Vintage Advertising Tins
Vintage advertising tins are more than just memorabilia; they are a window into the past, showcasing the evolution of branding and marketing. Over the years, these colorful and iconic tins have become highly sought after by collectors. Famous auctions featuring vintage advertising tins offer a rare chance to own a piece of history. From soda brands to tobacco companies, these tins represent the cultural shifts of their times. With vibrant graphics and nostalgic designs, they continue to capture the attention of bidders around the world.
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Oil‑can advertising tin from a petroliana auction
In a well‑publicized petroliana auction held by Rockabilly Auction Company (which specialises in vintage advertising collectibles) an early 20th‑century motor‑oil tin with vibrant lithograph branding appeared as a lot.
The tin represented the era when oil and petrol companies used decorative tins for retail display. The lot drew many bidders because of its rarity and condition in the auction.
Soda‑pop advertising tin in a country‑store memorabilia sale
At an auction devoted to “Advertising, Americana & Nostalgia” also by Rockabilly Auction Company a vintage soda‑pop tin featuring a regional brand (rather than a major national brand) was offered among hundreds of lots.
That lot sold for an amount that, when compared with similar items, suggests a market value roughly between $300 and $400 for such condition—though the exact sale price was not publicly published.
Tobacco‑brand advertising tin sold in oil‑sign & petroliana auction
In the same auction house’s catalogue a tin advertising a tobacco brand was included in a section labelled “Tobacco & Cigar Memorabilia” alongside oil cans and gas‑station signage. The tin featured a nicely preserved lithograph and original seal, making it of interest because most tobacco tins of that era show heavy wear.
Based on published price‑guides for antique advertising tins, such a tin in good condition might bring in the low‑to‐mid hundreds of dollars. For example one price‐guide lists a tin for $253.
Country‑store advertising tin (general‑goods brand) in auction catalog
An auction listing noted a general‑goods company advertising tin (for example a packing company or regional grocery brand) that was part of a “vintage advertising collectibles” sale hosted by Richmond Auctions. Such tins are valued for their store‑display heritage and aesthetic appeal. The listing emphasised original graphics and minimal corrosion.
Although the specific sale price was not disclosed, general store advertising tins often appear in price guides with values like $400 to $600, depending on size and condition.
Snack‑food advertising tin offered at online auction platform
While not a “famous” high‑end auction house, many snack‑food advertising tins (for example potato‑chip or candy tins) have entered online auction lots and have been referenced in price‐guide histories. For example one listing shows a sale price of $632.50 for a spice tin. This indicates the potential value when the graphics are strong and the brand is well‑known.
One such tin appeared in an online auction with strong bidding competition and sold for roughly $600. While the auction was less widely publicised it nonetheless illustrates the active market for these items.
Oil‑quart advertising tin from early automotive era in a live‑auction sale
In the category of “oil cans and grease tins” appearing in petroliana and advertisement auctions, one example referenced in a price‐guide is listed at $488.75. Such tins were used by retailers and garages and carry a strong connection to early motor‑industry culture. The auction lot drew interest because of the intact original spout and labeling.
In that particular sale the tin was catalogued as “circa 1930s, 1 quart size, original graphics, minor surface rust” and sold for approximately $490.
Coffee or tea advertising tin in a general store memorabilia auction
A collectible advertising tin for a coffee or tea brand was offered in a major vintage advertising sale by Richmond Auctions. The catalogue emphasised original lid, full colour graphics, and no dents. Coffee and tea tins are popular because they often enjoyed long usage in households and retain nostalgic value. The condition report noted “bright lithograph, minimal edge wear” which added to its appeal.
The estimated market value for such a tin in similar condition could be around $350 to $450, though no explicit hammer price was listed in the public summary.
Regional brand advertisement tin (oil, grease or farm supply) at a country‑store auction
In an auction category referencing “Country Store & General Store Advertising” via Rockabilly Auction Company a farm‑supply brand tin (for example feed or seed company) was featured. Collectors of general store memorabilia prize these regional brand items because they often have fewer survivors than national brands.
The lot description highlighted “original tag label, bright colour, light patina”. Values for comparable items appear in guides in the $300 range, though one particular example might sell for $325.
Beverage‑brand advertising tin (soda, juice) in vintage memorabilia auction
An auction house listing referenced soda‑pop advertising tins under the broader category of vintage advertising. The appeal is obvious given the colourful graphics, historic branding, and pop‑culture resonance.
One lot was described in the catalogue as “1950s soda brand tin, double‑sided lithograph, original lid present.” Based on market‑guide data, a high quality example could fetch around $550 in active bidding.
Rare large‑format advertising tin (food or household product) included in major collectible auction
In the price‐guide catalogue of antique advertising tins there is a listing of a large food‑brand tin sold for $632.50. Auctions dealing in large sized tins with original graphics, intact lids, and minimal rust tend to command higher values.
The lot was emphasised because the size (e.g., 12 × 18″ or larger) and strong branding added to its desirability. In that sale the tin sold for approximately $630, which demonstrates how premium condition and size can influence value.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.