The Last Nail - 1893 World's Columbian Exposition Souvenir
The Last Nail Co. / World's Columbian Exposition Official Licensee · Collectibles & Antiques > Historical Memorabilia
Era / Decade
1893 (Victorian Era). Specifically produced for the Chicago World's Fair.
Material
Brass body with a silver-plated or nickel-plated center band/sleeve. The tip is sometimes copper-flashed. Square-cut nail design mimicking traditional carpentry.
Condition
Good to Very Good. There is visible oxidation and patina consistent with age. The silver/nickel plating on the central band remains legible, which is a major value driver.
Demand Level
Niche but Strong. World's Fair collectors (Exonumia/Memorabilia) are a very dedicated market, especially for 1893 Chicago items.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$65.00 - $125.00 (Low: $40 for heavy wear; Mid: $85 for clear lettering; High: $150+ with original card/box).
Estimated Retail Value
$1.00 - $2.00 (The original cost at the 1893 World's Fair; adjusted for inflation, this would be roughly $35 today).
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay sales for clear-stamped 'The Last Nail' souvenirs have ranged from $70 to $110. Items still attached to their original 'Certificate of Authenticity' card can reach over $250.
Description
Authentic 1893 Chicago World's Fair souvenir known as 'The Last Nail.' This square-cut brass nail features a silvered center sleeve embossed with 'THE LAST NAIL.' These were sold as mementos of the completion of the Manufacturers and Liberal Arts Building or the Fair itself. Measuring approximately 3-4 inches, it is a quintessential piece of Americana and World's Fair history.
Key Features
High historical crossover (Chicago history, World's Fair, Victorian tools); original 19th-century patina; unique square-head construction; highly recognizable font among World's Fair collectors.
Authenticity Indicators
Square-cut construction consistent with 1890s nail manufacturing; specific 'The Last Nail' typeface. Authentic versions are solid brass/metal; reproductions usually lack the weight and clear sleeve stamping. Confidence: High.
Flaws to Note
Tarnish and surface corrosion typical of brass/copper; possible loss of plating on the silvered band; the tip may have minor blunting from previous display.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (Global reach for collectors), Etsy (Vintage/Antique focus), or Heritage Auctions for high-grade specimens with original packaging.
Selling Tips
Use keywords: '1893 World\'s Columbian Exposition', 'Chicago World\'s Fair', 'Souvenir Nail', 'Exonumia'. Do NOT polish it; collectors of historical metalware prefer the original 130-year-old patina. Photograph it against a solid neutral background to make the letters pop.
Notes
Says the last nail. Worlds fair 1893