Vintage Mount Rushmore Construction Phase Black and White Silver Gelatin Photo Print
Unbranded / Unknown Photographer (Historical Souvenir Press Print) · Collectibles & Antiques > Historical Photographs
Era / Decade
Late 1930s - Early 1940s (Construction era, before full completion in late 1941; scaffolding visible on Teddy Roosevelt)
Material
Gelatin silver process photo print on matte photo paper mounted/unmounted to backing board
Condition
Fair to Good. Significant edge wear, tearing, loss along the right edge, and severe creasing/corner damage at top and bottom. Image area itself remains relatively clear and legible.
Demand Level
Niche / Moderate (Appeals to vintage photography, South Dakota Americana, and National Parks history collectors)
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$12 - $25 (Low: $10, Mid: $18, High: $28 given condition)
Estimated Retail Value
$15 - $25 (Original tourist photo or historical print)
Comparable Sales
1930s-1940s Mount Rushmore construction photos typically sell on eBay for $15-$30 depending on condition and size.
Description
Vintage original black and white photograph depicting Mount Rushmore under construction. Shows Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt (under construction with scaffolding), and Lincoln. Includes expansive view of the debris/rubble field below the monument. Measures approximately 8x10 inches.
Key Features
Historical interest depicting construction/scaffolding phases of Mount Rushmore; vintage gelatin silver contrast; dramatic sky and mountain composition.
Authenticity Indicators
Authentic period paper stock, age-related yellowing on backing, silvering/matte luster consistent with vintage fiber-based photograph printing. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Tear and paper loss along right vertical edge; creasing and tearing at top right and bottom corners; minor surface scuffs; discolored cardboard backing visible on edges.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best reach for vintage historical photos), Etsy (vintage ephemera section)
Selling Tips
Highlight 'Construction Phase', 'Scaffolding', and 'Scranton/Gutzon Borglum era' in keywords. Frame with a mat that covers edge damage to increase visual appeal and resale value.