Morton's Salt Vintage Metal Advertising Tin (Free Running / When it Rains it Pours)
Morton Salt Company · Collectibles & Antiques > Advertising Tins
Era / Decade
1940s-1950s (Dating clues: Slogan font style, lack of barcode, and the 'Never Cakes or Hardens' text)
Material
Tin-plated lithographed metal with a rotating lid for pouring.
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible surface oxidation (rust) on the lid and bottom rim. Scuffing and minor fading on the lithography. Interior likely shows more rust.
Demand Level
Moderate. Advertising tins have a steady niche of collectors, especially for iconic household brands like Morton.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $10 | Mid: $22 | High: $35 (depending on interior cleanliness and buyer nostalgia)
Estimated Retail Value
$0.10 - $0.20 (original retail); $15 - $20 for a modern replica.
Comparable Sales
Similar rusted 1950s tins typically sell for $12-$18 on eBay. Pristine examples can reach $45+, but current condition limits the ceiling.
Description
Authentic vintage Morton's Free Running Salt tin canister. Features the iconic blue and white (faded to cream) graphics with the world-famous 'When it Rains it Pours' brand identity. Measures approximately 4-5 inches in height. Top features a metal pour spout. Perfect for farmhouse decor or kitchen advertising collections.
Key Features
Iconic American brand; original lithography (not a reproduction); classic kitchenalia aesthetic; functional metal pour spout still present.
Authenticity Indicators
Direct litho-printing on metal (not a sticker); bottom stamp 'Morton Salt Company, Address Chicago'; period-correct font. High confidence in authenticity.
Flaws to Note
Significant rust/pitting on the lid; scratches on the main body graphics; possible interior corrosion which limits its use for food storage.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage decor), eBay (best for worldwide collectors), or Facebook Marketplace (quick local sale for kitchen decor).
Selling Tips
Do not scrub the graphics with harsh chemicals, as this will remove the lithography. Highlight the 'Free Running' text in keywords. Use terms like 'Rustic,' 'Farmhouse decor,' and 'Kitchenalia.' Take photos of the bottom and the interior to show the extent of oxidation.