Vintage Hot Spur Mixture Tobacco Tin
Larus & Brother Co. · Collectibles & Antiques > Tobacciana > Tins
Era / Decade
Early 1900s (c. 1910-1930)
Material
Lithographed tin-plated steel. Features turn-of-the-century graphic design with high-pigment ink chromatography common in early 20th-century industrial printing.
Condition
Fair to Poor. Significant surface oxidation (rust), paint loss, and patina. The structural integrity appears intact, but the aesthetic finish is heavily weathered with visible scratching and corrosion.
Demand Level
Moderate/Niche. Tobacciana collectors are a dedicated group, but the condition limits this to those who prefer a 'rustic' or 'found' aesthetic. Rooster/Chicken motif items also appeal to farmhouse decor collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $35.00 (Low: $10, Mid: $25, High: $45 for collectors of specific regional brands)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.05 - $0.10 (Original early 20th-century price)
Comparable Sales
Recent sales of Larus & Brother tins in similar 'distressed' condition range from $12 to $28. Clean examples of Hot Spur tins can fetch $75-$100, but the heavy oxidation on this piece keeps value in the entry-level collector bracket.
Description
A rare antique 'Hot Spur Mixture' tobacco tin featuring a distinctive fighting rooster (gamecock) graphic center-stage. The tin sports a vibrant orange and black color scheme with ornate Victorian-style typography. Measuring approximately 4 x 3 inches, this pocket-sized tin was produced by Larus & Brother Co. of Richmond, Virginia. It features a hinged lid and original lithographed scrollwork borders.
Key Features
Features a 'Fighting Rooster' motif which is highly collectible in the tobacco and folk-art categories. 'Hot Spur' is a less common brand compared to Edgeworth, making it more desirable for brand-specific completists. Its 'pocket' size is preferred by collectors with limited display space.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The aging pattern (pitting vs. surface rust) is consistent with century-old tin. The printing technique shows the correct dot-matrix pattern of early lithography. Markings for 'Larus & Brother Co.' are visible in the fine print along the bottom edge.
Flaws to Note
Extensive rust and pitting on the lid and edges. Fading of the central rooster graphic. Likely interior corrosion. This level of wear is considered 'honest' but significantly depresses the price compared to a 'near-mint' example.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform due to the specific collector niche. Etsy is a secondary option if marketed as 'Industrial Rustic Decor' or 'Man Cave Antique'.
Selling Tips
Do NOT attempt to scrub or polish the rust off, as this will remove the remaining original litho-ink. Use keywords like 'Tobacciana', 'Gamecock', 'Richmond VA', and 'Litho Tin'. Take photographs in natural light to show the true color of the orange ink. Mention the hinge functionality in the description.