EPHEMERA
Along with collecting antique and unique typewriters, I also collect
old
typewriter ribbon tins. Typewriter ribbons used to be sold in tins (tin
containers),
which
come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Most are either round, square or
rectangular metal containers (with rounded corners). Many are
extravagantly
decorated with painted pictures, advertisements, decorations and
decals.
Some earlier 'tins' actually were paper.
Pricing on the tins is
fairly uneven, with the same tin priced at $2.50
in one store and $25 at an antique store across the street. As with old
typewriters, there isn't enough of a market to establish a firm price,
and the final price comes down to what the buyer is willing to pay and
what the seller is willing to accept.
There also are a variety
of toy typewriters, from Simplex to Dial to
Unique
to Tom Thumb and dozens in between. Some that have the look of toys
aren't.
And a few that don't exactly look like toys, are. So far, I've been
successful
in avoiding starting to collect these. How long that avoidance lasts is
anyone's guess.
The temptation at times is great.
updated 07.27.06
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