Catalog: Vintage Arts: Instruments and Implements (80)

Offered is a very nice set of brass weights manufactured by Fisher Scientific Co., dating to the turn of the 20th century.

The weights are housed in a fitted, hard wood case that appears to be maple, and it includes a brass tweezers for securing the six individual milligram weights. Also included are eight of the nine brass matching weights, with only the 1mg weight missing.

The wooden case measures 6 inches long x 2.5 inches wide x 1.5 inches high and sports a metal label on top. Condition is very good with the finish and wear commensurate of a used antique collectible.

This is a hard-to-find, pharmacy or drug store female specific tin labeled “SEDETS” – Pain pills from the 1940 – 1950 era. The tin measures 2 inches and is in very good condition complete with unused contents. There are faint scratches and minor wear areas. Marked "Rexall Drug Company" and "Patented 1938 in Canada".

This is part of many “female specific” old pharmacy stock items for sale.

Offered is a very handsome apothecary MORTAR & PESTLE from the 19th century made from lignum vitae wood.

This stunning example measures 11.5 inches high with the pestle in place and is 5.5 inches in diameter. The bulbous pestle is 10.5 inches long and sports sculpted turnings.

The condition is very good with mild wear and loss to the finish, various unobtrusive edge chips and slight hairline splits to the mortar and pestle.

Lignum vitae, Latin for "wood of life", is an exotic wood native to the West Indies and the tropical regions of the Americas. It is a hard, durable, extremely dense wood and was once very important for applications requiring a material with its extraordinary combination of strength, toughness, and density. As such, it was frequently used in wood turning applications requiring these characteristics, including early apothecary mortar and pestles. The plant derives its name from its medicinal uses as its resin was been used to treat a variety of medical conditions from coughs to arthritis.

A lovely and difficult to find example of a 19th century apothecary "tool-of-the-trade!

Offered is a hard-to-find survivor of 1930s - 1940s medicine!

This handsome cabinet is constructed of a hardwood (perhaps walnut) and sports an eye-appealing, front-facing, bakelite, control panel. The cabinet is rather heavy and measures 15"W x 14" H x 12.5" with a canted front panel and two wooden handles for transport.

The bottom drawer stores all of the wires and connections noted in the photo. The condition of the cabinet is very good with wear commensurate with age. One wire is brittle and non functional. There are 2 wires included that plug into the device as seen in photo. From the Philadelphia Hospital Supply Co.

An awesome piece of medical instrumentation - fusing both form and function not often found in today's market!

Offered is a very interesting group of 1940s to 1960s vintage veterinary medicines and food for dogs and cats!

First, is a circa 1940s, GLOVERS "IRON TONIC" in a clear glass screw cap bottle. This tonic was used as an appetite stimulant for dogs-cats-foxes + rabbits. It is 1/2 full and sports a complete, partially stained label and measures 5 inches high.

Second, is an unused large 10oz. size Dr. Naylors "UDDER LINIMENT", complete with original 7 inch box. Dates to the 1940s and is in very good condition.

Thirdly, is an empty PET-a-Gree "NATURAL VITAMINS & MINERALS" tin for dogs and cats measuring 4 inches high and in very good condition.

Fourth, is a tin "RIVAL" DOG FOOD can that doubles as a coin bank and sports 4 images of a dog waiting to be fed. This cute 2.75 inch tall tin dates to the 1950s and is in very good condition.

Fifth, is an unused SERGEANTS "INTESTINAL ASTRINGENT FOR DOGS" featuring a view of a handsome dog on both sides of the 2.75 inch carton. It is in nice condition and dates to the 1950s.

Sixth and seventh, are two different "GLOVERS" bottles- one is a 1960 vintage, blue-capped "IMPERIAL VERMITAGE" bottle sporting images of a cat and dog. This example is in fair condition and measures 4.5 inches high. The other GLOVER'S medicine is a 1940s "MANGE MEDICINE" in fine condition with a 3/4 full bottle. The bottle stands 5.25" tall, is embossed on both end panels and sports a perfect gold label. The box is in fair condition.

A very interesting and diverse grouping of vintage dog and cat medicines!

Please note that the mortar and pestle pictured on the right side--as seen in the first photo--has been sold.

This wonderful, 1940-1950s vintage hand made and painted mortar and pestle display once adorned the interior of a Connecticut pharmacy. The display is decorated in red with painted bronze details for added flair.

Measures about 7 high” x 4.5” wide and is in very nice condition! Some unobtrusive surface paint loss and scuffing including a few tiny nail holes are apparent but do not distract from their visual appeal!

This is a complete, hard to find pharmacy “KONSEAL FILLING and CLOSING APPARATUS” that was used by early 20th century druggists.

The machine was made by The J. M. Grosvenor Co., Boston, and was the most widely used cachet preparation device in American pharmacies.

The condition of this wonderful apothecary tool of the trade is very good, complete with the warm, rich patina one would expect of an antique of this age including the usual scratches, marks and unobtrusive dings and tarnish. The metal parts appear to be nickel plated, and the case is of a hard wood construction. The metal KONSEAL apparatus, when open, measures approximately 18”L x 10”W x 2” H. Note that there is interior and exterior age damage in the center of the wooden case that includes a hairline split in the center. The photos should help better identify this description.

The accessories appear to be complete when compared to the images seen in the directions that is glued to the inside case and my reference text. There are 3 packets with paper directions for patient use.

The interior divider has some minor separation of joints that does not distract from this set.

A must addition for any pharmacy/apothecary collection.

This colorful group of 5 empty drug store tins. One of the circa 1940s - 1950s tins is labeled “Hospital Packet” and the other 4 are noted as “Professional Packet”. The Hospital Packet tin differs in the front and back lithograph as well as the text. The medicine tins are marked DERMA MEDICONE and are topical anesthetic ointments labeled: Benzocaine, Oxyquinolone Sulphate, Ephedrine HCL, and more.

The 5 tins are all in nice condition with unobtrusive minor surface scratches with one having a minor rust stain to the lower edge from storage.

The tins measure just over 1.5 “ in diameter.

Perfect for your shop or collection!

This difficult to find tool-of-the trade pharmacy “IDEAL CAPSULE FILLER” was used by early 20th century druggists to enhance their capsule production. The patent date is stamped Oct. 31, 1905, and research indicates that it was produced by the "Baltimore Capsule Co."

The machine produces 2 different size capsules and has a filling plate that sports 4 parallel rows, each having the capacity of making 24 capsules. Also included are 2 capsule filling trays.

The condition of this wonderful apothecary tool of the trade is very good, complete with the warm, rich patina one would expect of an antique of this age including the usual scratches, marks and unobtrusive dings and tarnish. (Two top wood edges have been lost due to use, time and age as seen in the photos.) The metal parts appear to be nickel plated, and the wood base looks like walnut. The filler measures approximately 13 L x 4.5 W x 4.5 H.

The interior contains sand that was used to add weight and stabilize the box when in use.

A must addition for any pharmacy/apothecary collection!

This a Vintage 1920's "Clear-Sight Spectacle Co." Self Test/Sales Kit with Original Paper Info, Instructions, Tester & Original Box.

Included are: Instruction Sheet, Sheet with choice of glasses available with prices, pictures and list of satisfied customers, greeting letter, Special Notice, Mailing Label, Guarantee, Order Blank, Tester with Original Shipping Box. The Original Shipping Price Shown on the Box is 3¢.

The Tester is made of wood, sports a lens and a tiny metal eye chart. The condition is very fine except for a small scratch to the chart and minor wear to the paper inserts.

Very unusual home eye exam tester!

Measuring 12.5 inches wide by 8 inches high, this vintage, hand-painted on board, 1940's No Smoking sign is most emphatic in its message: "NO SMOKING MEANS NO SMOKING"! Most definitely a conversation piece! Fab visual display! Condition is good with paint wear to edges as seen in photos. Light pencil lines to guide the hand-painting are still visible on the front of the sign. (The left side of sign appears darker in photos than the right side. This is a function of less-than-perfect photography! Coloration and brightness are uniform throughout! No dark or shadowy areas!)

This vintage educational Ophthalmology chart was published in 1956 by the Better Vision Institute of 630 5th Avenue, New York, to "promote better understanding of vision and better care of eyes".

Measuring 60 inches wide by 40 inches high, this highly colorful chart is just chock-full of information! Metal hanging grommets placed across the top facilitated display back in the 1950's. This incredibly interesting, double-sided chart highlights the science and history of sight as well as its medical assessment and its effects on one's ability to function productively in society.

The front side of the chart is entitled, "Vision: Master Key to Man's Progress" and highlights the biology and history of sight with a side discussion of optical illusions. The back side is entitled, "Science: Multiplies Eye Power" and discusses the science of vision and its correction featuring the Snellen Vision Chart, an Astigmatism chart and a Color Discrimination chart.

Condition is quite good with excellent color and clarity of print. Foxing is present on the front side side of the chart where the Optical Illusion information is printed. A very small edge tear is evident on the bottom of the chart and is most readily seen in photos when viewing the bottom back side of the chart where the description of Color Discrimination is found. (please see photos)

A fabulous, mid-20th century retrospective on vision as well as 1950's Optometry and Ophthalmology! Would be wonderful framed between two pieces of plexi-glass to facilitate display on either side!

Offered are two very interesting and very difficult to find, antiquated, female pharmacy medications. Both drugs are in glass ampules, unused and reside in their original box packages.

First is a most unusual carton of 6 vials labeled "PITANTHM" which is a uterine stimulant used to promote labor. Inside the small 3.5" x 2.75" box are six unused ampules nesting within. The circa 1940's ampules measure 2" tall and sport a very cute paper label and are in perfect shape. The box shows mild wear, some stain and fading.

Secondly is an unused, Parke Davis, sex hormone ampule labeled "ANTUITRIN". The box measures 4" x 2" and is complete with a paper insert with directions, dose and indications including a date of 8-48. The medicine is in mint condition. The distilled water vial is about 3" high and the medicine ampule is about 2 inches tall with both sporting perfect labels. The box is in very good condition with some stains, wear and minor label loss.

A pair not to be missed!

Offered is a scarce pharmacy tool of the trade labeled No. 10 TABLET MOULD that was offered by the Whitall Tatum Company. These hard rubber molds were used in most drugstores from the mid 1880s to the early 20th century. This particular size mould made 50 one grain triturate tablets.

This handsome, hand-sized device enabled pharmacists to enhance their productivity. Measures 6 inches long.

Fortunately, the directions and original box still exist. The top plate and base match perfectly together with the pins passing through the holes smoothly. The condition of the mould is very good evidenced by the minimal wear. The box is in fair condition with two top holes noted and general wear from honorable use and time.

This striking, decorated, ceramic apothecary jar dates from the 1930s and is marked "GERMANY" on its base. Measuring 9 inches tall, this jar features lovely,14K gold-painted swags.

The jar cover has a repaired crack at the base of the knob as seen in the photo, but the jar otherwise is quite fine lending flair and elegance to your apothecary collection.

Offered for your consideration is a fabulous medical sterilizer fresh from a retired physicians collection. This nickel plated beauty is in fine shape and appears to be from the 1930-1940 era.

Measures 8 inches long x 3 inches wide x 5 inches high (including the knob). The embossed label is marked "MADE IN USA - CASTLE- STERILIZER". The lid is attached to the interior tray and articulates backwards to open or can be lifted off as seen it the photo. Please note that the electric cord was cut by the good doctor to fit inside his display cabinet.

For your consideration are two, difficult to find, CANINE, veterinary medicine texts published in the first quarter of the 20th century!

Presented first is "DR. LITTLE'S DOG BOOK", with an original copyright of 1924 - this being a second printing from May 1925. It features 345 pages that include seven photos along with some illustrations depicting dog care. The contents covered in this text are vast with chapters discussing the history of the dog, their care, diet, training, as well as canine diseases and their treatment. A very comprehensive, early volume!p> The condition of "DR. LITTLE'S DOG BOOK" is good with a solid binding, one loose photo in the front pages and one moderately torn (but complete) photo of a terrier (pg 38), some mild yellowing and slight foxing to the pages, and wear and fading to the cover commensurate for a book 95 years of age. Measures approximately 8.5"L x 5.75"W x 1.5"H.

The second book offered is a nice 1915 edition of "KENNEL DISEASES", by "ASHMONT", containing 424 pages. This volume includes one photo and a few illustrations and is packed with information dealing with all manner of kennel diseases including symptoms, nature, causes and treatment. Quite comprehensive and a fabulous resource.

The condition of this book is good with a tight binding, and yellowing and some foxing to pages. Overall wear is quite light especially given the book's 100 years of age. Measures 9.5"L x 7"W x 2"H.

The two texts are offered as a pair for $75.

Offered is a very nice, C1940s, Pharmacy Drugstore Apothecary Scientific Weight Set in a fitted mahogany case which sports a wonderful patina. This handsome piece retains its brass nameplate with an image of a scale beam and arms and is marked "GURLEY STANDARD WEIGHTS and MEASURES TROY, N.Y., U.S.A.". A green accuracy certification sticker remains on the exterior underside of the box indicating it was used in Easthampton, Massachusetts, up until October 1940.

Six weights are nestled snugly in a velvet-like cushion with an additional nine, light weight metal weights residing in an interior, covered compartment securing them in place. A pair of tweezers completes this special find.

The condition of the box and weights is very good. The mahogany case closes securely with two brass latches. A few small dings, scratches and blemishes are present consistent with its 80+ years of age. The case measures 6.75"L x 2.75"W x 1.5"H.

Weight sets such as these were found in old pharmacies, laboratories, and scientific institutions needing to determine the weight of delicate articles, etc.

On a cold October day in 1977, an auction of the former estate of Dr. T.D.M. Wilson of Washington, Pennsylvania, took place. The last surviving relative to live in Dr. Wilson's former 1890 mansion had moved to smaller quarters, and many artifacts reflecting the Wilson's family history had to be auctioned off.

Dr. T.D.M. Wilson graduated from Jefferson Medical College in 1875, and the following offered items from this estate auction provide an historical glimpse into his long medical career.

The first item is a fabulous 19th century brass DOCTOR T.D.M. Wilson sign measuring 14L x 9W inches, which likely adorned the entrance way to Dr. Wilson's office.

Also offered in this grouping is a rare group photo of Dr. Wilson (4th from the left) and other Phi Kappa Sigma members. The frame measures 16.5"L x 12.5"W. While the photo is a bit faded, the image is remarkable and includes a distinguished group of Phi Kappa Sigma members.

The third and fourth items in this grouping are a small, framed, 1909 AMA membership certificate with Dr. Wilson's name inscribed, and a very unusual, framed, IRS narcotic SPECIAL TAX STAMP from 1926. This Narcotic form is quite unique in that it names Dr. Wilson as the single physician allowed to dispense narcotics within the 23rd District of the State of Pennsylvania.

Finally, 2 handwritten letters postmarked in 1884 from Dr. Wilson to his loving wife are included, offering a small glimpse into his personal life.

Together, this rich grouping of artifacts provides one a unique opportunity to further enhance one's collection of medical objects.

Offered is a nice example of a Pharmacist tool of the trade. Dating from the 1940s to 1950s, this pharmacy pill tile is constructed of durable glass and sports a numerical cutting scale to accurately determine the dosage of compounded medicines.

From the GLASCO Glass Company, this pill tile is in nice condition, with 2 edge dings and various faint glass scratches acquired as a result of use, resulting in a fine, vintage patina.

This is a colorful 1936 series Treasury Department IRS Narcotics form. The document is dated and filed 1947 at Cases Drug Store, Logan Ohio. This decorative record confirms that the narcotic was Codeine Sulphate 1/2 gr. and was purchased by the Rexall Drug Company, Pittsburgh, PA.

The form measures 11" high x 9" wide and is in fine condition except for a 1/2" tear in the upper (R) hand corner (barely seen when framed). Although once common, these decorative documents are getting more difficult to find.

Offered is an unused, vintage "sex" ointment purported to be a desensitizing agent for men.

This cleverly named product came in a diminutive tube measuring 3.5 inches long with its carton a mere 4 inches long. Supposedly, by following directions and using "at the right time", this ointment would measure up to its full potential.

Dates to the 1950's - 1960's era and is in very good condition.

This antiquated medicine with inert contents is meant for display ONLY and NOT meant for use.

A GREAT conversation piece!

Offered is a scarce POISON bottle that sports great images of an elk with an honorable rack. The bottle on the right is not available.

The 3 sided label is complete with minor loss, imperfections and fading as seen in the images. The bottle is undamaged and measures approximately 3.5 inches tall x 1 inch wide and include an orange colored cork. There is minimal interior hazing.

The front of the label is marked "ELK BRAND - LIQUID CARBOLIC ACID". The left side is marked "POISON" in bold letters and includes the antidote. The right side has another wonderful elk head image. It states "Mfg. by ELK MFG CO." Jellico, Tenn. The bottle dates to the 1930 era.

Jellico was once a thriving coal mining town during the late 19th century. Info on the Elk Mfg Co is scarce and the bottle such as this example is equally rare. One can find Elk brand tins etc. but bottle is scarce.

A very cute vintage drug store/pharmacy display from the 1940s era!

This complete display consists of 24, colorful CHANDLER'S medicine boxes, each of which contain the original brown pills!

Each box's label includes ingredients described as Acetanilide 1 gr., Caffeine Alkaloid 1/16 gr.,, Po. Ext. Dogwood, Po. Extract Gentian, Cascarin, Po. Capsicum, Podophyllin, and Aloin.

Packed by CHANDLER MEDICINE CO. - Office 2812 Dodier Street, ST. LOUIS, MO., the display measures 6" x 5" x 1" and is in unused, fine condition. ***NOTE*** The cover must be separated from each corner to be set-up as a display as seen in photo.

What a great collectible for the pharmacist, nurse or doctor in your life!

Hard to come by, this U.S. Government Licensed, MULFORD DIPTHERIA ANTITOXIN complete with contents, is in unused condition.

This museum quality kit contains directions, antitoxin vial, needle, and injector components--- including a perfect wooden box. The colorful label is complete, torn in places with stains and printed in English and Spanish.

The scarce kit measures approximately 4"W x 1.75"H x 1.25"D and is dated JULY 11, 1941.

The Smithsonian Institute has detailed and fascinating information on the history of diphtheria on their website and is a highly recommended search.

Ready to be the centerpiece of your collection!

Offered is an 1854 edition of Dr. Calvin Cutter's instructional and educational book entitled "First Book of Anatomy, Physiology, and Hygiene, for GRAMMAR SCHOOLS and FAMILIES".

This difficult to find revised stereotyped edition, was published in Boston by the Benjamin B. Mussey and Co., the book having been originally published in 1852. It features 83 highly-detailed engraved illustrations and 191 information-packed pages. A very comprehensive and quite interesting volume that discusses normal and abnormal conditions, treatment of various diseases and recommendations for proper health.

This very early educational hardcover book is in fair to good condition. The front cover has separated from the binding as has the very first page which is blank, but both are present. All other pages remain bound. The majority of the exterior black leather edge binding cover is missing. This 168 year old book has expected, moderate yellowing and foxing to the pages, some minor staining and ancient water marks, and some tiny folds here and there. Measures approximately 7.25"L x 4.75"W.

A highly valued resource book of its time for instruction in the grammar school grades or for use by more financially well-to-do 19th century families who could afford to maintain personal, home libraries.

Quite an interesting read!

Offered is a clear glass paperweight advertising the image of the fascinating "CHIEF TWO MOON" of Waterbury, Connecticut, who made and spent a fortune as a healer and manufacturer of patent and herbal medicines of questionable efficacy. This image is of the Chief proudly posing in front of one of his converted school buses that he and his salesmen used to travel in throughout New York and Connecticut hawking his popular elixirs and herbal medicines.

This handsome paperweight measures about 4.25 inches long x 2.75 inches wide x .75 inches thick. The black and white paper image is affixed to the underside of the glass. Overall, the condition is very good with some minor fading to the image front. The print on the back side of the image is quite faded and the written portion is barely discernible. No damage to the glass is noted. I am not not sure of the vintage but it has been in my collection over 15 years.

SOME HISTORY: Chief Two Moon Meridas (Ca1888–1933) was an American seller of herbal medicine who claimed that he was of Sioux ancestry. Meridas was born Chico Colon Meridan, son of Chico Meridan and Mary Tumoon; his exact place and date of birth are unclear. Later, his marriage certificate recorded his date of birth as August 29, 1888, but this information in unconfirmed.

By 1914, Meridas was selling herbal medicines in the streets of Philadelphia and New York City. In New York he met Helen Gertrude Nugent, married her, and shortly afterwards they moved to Waterbury, Connecticut, where he began to sell his herbal medicines from his house. Contemporary newspaper accounts state that during the Great 1918 Influenza Pandemic, none of his patients died! This increased his prestige and clientele. His most famous product was "Bitter Oil", a laxative that was widely marketed as a cure-all.

In 1921, Meridas moved to a larger house in Waterbury and established an extensive and prosperous herb business in a storefront at 1898 East Main Street. He built his own laboratory at 1864 East Main Street in 1925. His business increased to such an extent that he had a fleet of buses for his salesmen as well as an airplane. He took money only for his products, not his advice. He spent lavishly but also surreptitiously donated to charities and to the poor.

In 1928, The Chief was awarded the keys to Atlantic City, where he founded his Indian Temple there. Although The Chief always claimed Native American ancestry in the advertising of his products and in his personal life, the United States Department of Interior refused to certify that he was an American Indian. However, on August 6, 1930, the Oglala Lakota Sioux of the Pine Ridge Reservation awarded him the honorary title of Chief, because of the significant financial help he provided them and others during the Great Depression.

The Chief died in Waterbury at the age of 43.

Offered is a simply outstanding, extraordinarily scarce, 1920-1930s Art Deco era, ceiling-mount-hanging, drugstore show globe in impeccable condition!

The fancy and highly-stylized, Art Deco, aluminum frame cradles an equally highly-stylized, classically-ribbed, clear glass show globe and finial. If so desired, the show globe will hold colored-water as was the display fashion back "in-the-day". The frame is embellished with a buffed, silver matte finish with design details outlined in contrasting black to further enhance the fabulous, Art Deco styling. The chain link is also painted black, echoing the black detailing of the frame, and it retains most of its gorgeous, original finish, with absolutely no pitting! The hanger medallions retain their original finish and are ready for mounting. Here and there, the metal parts retain a faint honey tone adding to the show globe's antique charm. This fabulous apothecary showpiece measures approximately 34.5 inches from the top of its fancy, ceiling-mount hanger to the base. If desired, it is possible to add additional chain links to further extend the overall length of the globe.

The condition is excellent. The globe glass is clean and clear except for some very, very faint haze on the interior top of the globe just below the neck. A perfectly fitting, ground-glass faceted finial echoing Art Deco design, rounds out this beauty.

The combined take-away of this offering, this outstanding piece of nearly 100 year old, American pharmacy history, is its exquisite Art Deco styling with extraordinary visual appeal, its utterly excellent condition, and its very scarce, ceiling-mount design, making it a true rarity among extant Apothecary antiques and collectibles!

Measuring 10.5" high x 10.5" deep x 6.5" wide at the widest point, this very unique, circa 1940's, pharmacy, ALKA-SELTZER advertising piece displays just wonderfully!

Cleverly conceived and constructed, this display combines a very, visually-pleasing, accessible medicine display that promoted spur-of-the-moment purchases at the drug store cash register, along with a tape dispenser for use by the pharmacist and his employees! Quite clever--- as it guaranteed that the display would remain in use and visible in the pharmacy as the tape dispenser provided a nice convenience for drug store employees!

In very nice condition with expected scratches, paint rubs, and non-problematic, superficial surface rusting here and there (please see photos) expected of a 75+ year old functional display.

The display retains one of its twelve, original, glass Alka-Seltzer medicine bottles (empty of contents) as well as an older, used roll of tape in the dispenser!

A very unique advertising drug store display sure to start an interesting conversation at your next dinner party!

Offered is a very nice, vintage, drug store, BROMO SELTZER Dispenser with a patent date of 1930.

This popular and very recognizable, pharmacy collectible is constructed of a cobalt blue glass base with an aluminum stand that sports an old bottle of Bromo Seltzer retaining a label dating to 1987. The stand measures just over 15 inches high including the bottle.

The condition is commensurate with a used pharmacy device. The base shows wear with various scratches, and the metal is tarnished. The dispenser mechanism rotates and functions properly. The piece was in storage for many years and retains its original, "as-found" patina. A very nice find!

Some history:
The Bromo Seltzer product takes its name from a component of the original formula, sodium bromide. Bromides are a class of tranquilizers that were withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1975 due to their toxicity. Their sedative effect probably accounted for Bromo-Seltzer's vast popularity back in the day as THE go-to remedy for hangovers!

Incredible graphics say it all for this highly unique, female medicine bottle, BonKora, dating from the 1930s - 1940s era.

The bottle measures nearly 7.5 inches high and is complete with original contents. The condition of the bottle is very nice with only minor staining to the label next to the letters in the word, BONKORA. Although the box is damaged (see photos), it displays very well as it retains the image of the nude female- an interesting conversation piece!

A bit of history: BONKORA was actually advertised as a weight loss treatment in print advertising, although this usage is not stated on the box. With sales in decline in the late 1930s, the BONKORA manufacturer attempted to make their product a bit more interesting by streamlining the original, bulkier silhouette in their advertising and adding a naked lady on the label. While a clever touch, the product’s popularity continued to wane – perhaps due to a combination of the economics of the Great Depression and the increased federal enforcement of earlier-legislated laws prohibiting unsubstantiated, and wild, curative claims for any and all maladies.

Offered for your consideration is a porcelain medical sterilizer fresh from a retired physician's collection. This office size model is in fairly good condition and appears to be from the 1930-1940s era. It displays well; however, there is modest repair to the right side as seen in the photos.

Measures 5 inches long x 3.5 inches wide x 4 inches high (including the knob). A sweet diminutive size for easy display!

The embossed label on the base is marked "AMERICAN SUNDRIES Co. – BROOKLYN, N.Y. - PATENTED". The lid articulates backwards to open and appears to be missing the interior tray. Priced accordingly.

Offered is a wonderful, 1940s, dual-purpose heater that works as both a baby vaporizer and bottle warmer. This charming piece is in very nice condition complete with its original, quite visually appealing cardboard box.

The warmer/vaporizer is made of durable ceramic and sports an elongated, diamond-shaped label on front featuring an arrangement of flowers. Made by HANKSCRAFT, it dates to 1945 per the patent date noted on the underside label and measures about 4.5" tall x 3.25" wide. The underside metal label is packed with information!

The condition of the warmer/vaporizer is very good with no damage noted. The electrical component has not been tested. The box is worn (some loss and unattached pieces) and is generally tattered yet retains its absolutely wonderful graphics.

A delightful baby collectible!

This is a wonderful example of a Quack Medical device from the 1930s. Inside the black, cloth-covered, fitted case lies a beautiful massage apparatus complete with all attachments and 36 page instruction booklet.

Measuring about 7" x 4", this "Rolex" brand-labeled device and its three attachments are in very nice condition. The booklet has a copyright date of 1934 and is packed with photos and suggested uses for the massager including treatment of headaches and renewing vigor!

The case measures about 8" x 10" and sports a fabulous interior label. The cord is a bit dry so I opted to not plug it in. (I would expect that this device is functional as all the other electric medical devices from this collection were in working condition. Without plugging it in, I cannot guarantee if it works, so please purchase with this in mind.)

Working or not, this interesting, Quack Medical device is a unique "find" and is ready for your collection.

An unused, "New Old Stock", Pharmacy or Drug Store display from the 1940-1950's era, complete with 10 full rolls of "FOXES" Throat Soothing Horehound Drops!

This diminutive size display measures 4.25" x 3.25" closed and is in very nice condition. The top lifts up to facilitate advertisement of the product and would have been placed on the counter top of a pharmacy in this fashion. A neat find!

This is a very nice example of a Lowell, Massachusetts, patent medicine complete with box.

The 8.5 inch bottle is in fine condition and sports a label only on the side panel because it is embossed on the remaining three sides. The bottle label is almost complete with modest staining from content leakage.

This medicine retains its original, very decorative box which notes a 1915 date-- apparently when this "new" box was first introduced to the public in August of that year. The box is complete and in good condition noting modest content stain, mostly on the left panel.

Ayer's Sarsaparilla was actually a quack medicine first introduced in the mid 19th century, with no real evidence of therapeutic value, and in that regard, quite similar to many other medicines of that era. Sarsaparilla, J.C. Ayer's most popular product, was cited as a real blessing to humanity in that it purified the blood, stimulated the vital functions, restored and preserved health, and infused new life and vigor throughout the whole system!! Sarsaparilla was also recommended for jaundice, dyspepsia, pimples, boils, ringworm, female weaknesses and ‘lassitude and debility peculiar to the Spring.'

Reading "SAFETY FIRST" "EMERGENCY SHOWER EYE BATH", this green, white and black painted sign dates to the 1950's and was likely meant for use in either a professional or academic laboratory.

The sign measures 14 inches wide x 10 inches high, and is quite bright and visually appealing.

This painted metal sign remains in fine condition with minor surface scratching, tiny areas of paint loss and tiny areas of superficial rusting, all as noted in photos.

Offered is a more diminutive example of a late 19thC Pharmacy "tool of the trade" known as a pill machine but often referred to as a pill roller.

Pill machines were designed to enhance the productivity of the early pharmacist, and this design was, indeed, popular for many, many years. This pill machine is designed with 24 tubes for medicine-making.

The condition is very good, sporting a nice patina commensurate with its age and use. It is constructed of walnut and embellished with brass edge guards as well as brass grooved molds. The paddle has a number of early small dings and a small, faint hairline split on the top edge. The base measures approximately 12" L x 7" W x 1.75" H including the footed base. The paddle is 16.5"L x 3"W.

An apothecary classic, ready for your collection.

Offered is a wonderful, 1940 era, SENTINEL First Aid Kit sporting GREAT graphics. This visually-attractive, metal case contains all of its contents and appears to be in minimal and perhaps in unused condition!

This diminutive kit was designed to be portable and most useful for scrapes and scratches. The case measures 6" x x 3" x 1.25" and is in very nice condition with minor surface scratches and stains commensurate with age. The contents are near perfect.

Distributed by FOREST CITY PRODUCTS, INC. Cleveland, Ohio.

A wonderful kit for your medical, nursing or emergency-care student or professional in your life!

An additional tube of Ophthalmic ointment and a few early Band-aids are included!

Scientific, chemist, laboratory-- these terms all best describe this circa 1930s, unused and most interesting device labeled "Bishops Arsenic Apparatus". Comes complete with original wrappers, jar, black stopper, piping and stained box with label. The box measures 5.5 inches long x 3.25 inches wide x 2 inches high. Condition is excellent.

Perfect for your laboratory, medical or weird science collection!

This is a fabulous opportunity to acquire a wonderful, Art Deco inspired, advertising, drug store sign featuring the title "SICKROOM NEEDS" embossed on front. This 1950s era piece once hung in a Grand Rapids, Michigan, pharmacy.

The black-painted, metal frame houses a plastic, cream-colored insert that features an embossed lettering and design technique that advertises the name of the product for sale. The background of this insert sports a streamlined, horizontal, raised "striping" reminiscent of the Art Deco era. When light is allowed to pass through the plastic, translucent insert, the insert appears to be magically illuminated so that the green-colored backside of the sign shines through with brilliance. This effect can be enjoyed by either hanging the sign in front of a window or by fastening tiny LED lights (not included) on the backside of the frame.

The dimensions are approximately 48"L x 5.5"W x 3/4"D, and the overall condition of the sign is very good. The plain metal frame has been repainted in a durable, semi-gloss, black finish. The painted finish is in very good condition with areas of minor surface imperfection and slight areas of roughness here and there.

The vintage plastic insert is laminated in two tones, with the front noting a rich, aged, cream color, and the back noting a rich green tone. The front of the insert has faint surface imperfections and some areas of uneven discoloring. The lower left portion of the letter "M" has a minor, small, unobtrusive crack. Overall, the insert retains a nice glossed surface patina commensurate with its age.

A note: the first photo best represents what the sign will look like when illuminated from the back with LED or natural window lighting.

Offered are two handsome, vintage 1950-1960 era, Alka-Seltzer pharmacy dispenser product displays plus one Alka-Seltzer bottle.

On the left side of the first photo is a heavy plastic example with a midnight blue base and clear (hazy now) top portion. This example measures 4.25" high x 4.25" wide x 5.5" deep and sports a heavy iron base for stability. The base has embossed words stating "PROPERTY OF MILES LAB, INC." The condition notes modest wear with scuffs, dings, and fading with some edge loss to the two left lower corners as seen in the photos. Worthy of your collection!

The second Alka-Seltzer display noted on the right of the first photo is a seldom found, shapely, metal dispenser in a striking robin's egg blue color. This example notes writing on all sides with the back stating: "Refill base with 50's carton of Alka-Seltzer...". This display measures 3.75"H x 4"W x 5"D and is in good condition. There are no dings or rust although modest surface wear is noted, showing areas of scuffs, tarnish, and fading of paint, etc. One of the 4 rubber feet is missing. A nice piece to complement your collection.

A single, empty Alka-Seltzer bottle is included to complete this listing. It is in fair condition with paint loss and some rust to the cover.

This very colorful and detailed pictorial display salutes the achievement of America's First Apothecary General, Boston's Andrew Craigie, commissioned in 1777. He had served as Massachusetts' Committee of Safety as Apothecary and fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill, continuing to serve American forces throughout the Revolutionary War.

This display is one of a series entitled "The History of Pharmacy in Pictures" produced by Parke Davis in the late 1950's to early 1960's honoring the story of American Pharmacy.

This scene depicts Craigie providing aid during the June 17, 1775, Revolutionary War, Battle of Bunker Hill, Charlestown, Boston, Massachusetts.

This self-framed, white-bordered artwork is constructed of a quality, thick, card board and has a built-in easel on back for displaying. The picture can also be easily framed.

Perfect, intense color throughout - no fading - any glare seen is due to lighting conditions during photography. Measures approximately 21" long x 17.75" wide.

Offered is a wonderful, circa 1920's, John Wyeth apothecary bottle sporting a fancy, shield-shaped, foil label, Elixir Phenobarbitol.

Decorative stock bottles such as this beauty were meant to be refilled and reused and were the pride of the pharmacy staff. Eye-catching, reflective medicine bottles such as these also served as an advertising mechanism as they often were placed prominently in pharmacy windows to attract passers-by.

This 8.5 inch, amber, wide-mouth example reveals ground glass construction and dates to the 1920's era.

The condition of this empty bottle is excellent with only a tiny edge fleck of the back lip. The ground glass stopper cannot be removed and appears perfect. The front label shows light wear and staining commensurate with age and use. Although the label appears silver in the photos, it is more of a GOLD-toned foil. The back label has modest wear and staining.

Offered is a C1900, artistically-executed, hand-painted and hand-stenciled, wooden veterinary medicine advertising sign entitled "TRY VARNUM'S SPAVIN CURE".

The term Bone Spavin refers to the development of arthritic or degenerative changes that create bony growths effecting the lower joints of a horse and often resulting in lameness.

This very unusual sign measures 42" L x 6"W and is in very good condition. The wood demonstrates a few faint hairline, length-wise splits that do not go through the wood, and thus, do not effect sign integrity. Two hooks on the top of the sign facilitate hanging.

Offered is a very nice, scarcely-found, C1930s Dewitts Headache Tablets drugstore display with very colorful graphics!

This handsome display measures 9"L x 4.25"W x 2"H and sports 23 of the original 24 tablet boxes. Each 3 inch box contains a perfectly-labeled, cork-topped bottle with the original insert.

The condition of the display box is fairly good with some honorable wear and scuffs, with loss of the top cover, all commensurate with an antique medicine. One of the medicine boxes has a small 1/3 inch of ancient, but unobtrusive debris stuck on it. Several boxes show a few tiny stains worth noting. One box has been opened and has one loose flap.

A wonderful, all-original find!

Offered is a fabulous, early 20thC, Patent Medicine Bottle sporting the image of an old geezer - OLD HERMIT EMBRO. Wonderful label graphics! Made by OLD HERMIT REMEDY CO. SCHENECTADY, NY - LABORATORIES - SCOTIA, NY, this nostrum was primarily a remedy for a variety of lung and respiratory afflictions as seen on the label: WHOOPING COUGH, ASTHMA in addition to frostbite, sprains and more! It was quite common for early medicines to purport to have many different benefits, and the "old hermit" manufacturer capitalized upon this.

The 4.5 inch high bottle sports a corked top which is covered by a plastic seal. The highly decorative label with wonderful graphics surrounds most of this cylindrical 1 1/2 ounce bottle. The label has an amber tone color and some minor wear, scuffs and loss commensurate with its age.

An interesting addition to one's apothecary, drugstore collection.

Offered is a very appealing pair of Mid Century Modern, vintage-design-decorated, apothecary jars that once embellished the shelves of a Claymont, Delaware pharmacy.

Dating to the 1950s - 1960s era, this beautiful, white and cobalt blue colored pair are in excellent condition. The large jar measures 10.75 inches tall x 6 inches in diameter. The small jar measures 7.5 inches high x 4.75 inches in diameter.

Ready for display in your vintage drug store collection!

This is an unused, "New Old Stock", Pharmacy or Drug Store display from the 1940-1950's era. It is complete with 16 full boxes of "THRIOCAIN LOZENGES". The pink tablets are inside a plastic tube which was prepared for and labeled "James' Drug Co., New London, CT".

This diminutive size display measures 6.25" x 3.75" x 2" closed and is in very nice condition except for some unobtrusive ink scribbling appearing mostly on the top. The cover lifts up to facilitate the advertising of this product and would have been placed on the counter top of a pharmacy in this fashion. A neat find!

Offered for sale is a scarce early 19th century, medium-sized, apothecary pharmacy bottle sporting “Tr. SERPENT.” on the label under glass label!

The 8.5 inch tall bottle sports a pontil on the base, and is of early blown glass construction. The fancy, applied label is complete, shows mild age related stains and wear and is in good condition.

The photo demonstrates an unobtrusive crack above the letters 'SER' on the gold label. The perfect fitting stopper is of ground glass construction and is in very good order as well.

The inside of the bottle notes slight staining and could be cleaned if desired.

Very nice indeed!

.......SOME HISTORY.......

This small shrub, native to the Orient from India to Sumatra, has for centuries been used in Indian medicine. In 1952 reserpine, one of several alkaloids in the plant, was isolated from its root and has since been evaluated in western medicine as one of the most valuable druǵs for treatinǵ hiǵh blood pressure.

 R serpentina was used in folk medicine in India for centuries to treat a wide variety of maladies, including snake and insect bites, febrile conditions, malaria, abdominal pain, and dysentery. It was also used as a uterine stimulant, febrifuge, and cure for insanity. The plant was mentioned in Indian manuscripts as long ago as 1000 bc.

Rauwolfia has been studied for the treatment of mental diseases, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, epilepsy and seizures, and of insomnia and sleep problems.

This is an unused, "New Old Stock", Pharmacy or Drug Store display from the 1940-1950's era. It is complete with 6 full boxes of "Mckesson and Robbins" tablets.

This cute size display measures 4.5" x 3.75" closed and is in very nice condition. The top lifts up to facilitate advertisement of the product and would have been placed on the counter top of a pharmacy in this fashion. A neat find!

The Siemens Model M-22, carbon hearing aid was made by Siemens & Halske A. G. of Germany around 1925 (engraved on the back side of the microphone) and was marketed in America under the DUOTONE name by The American Phonophor Corporation of New York.

The double carbon amplifier microphones measure 4¾" x 2⅜" x 7/16" thick. The front view sports two decorative "snowflake" designed ports, and the base has a small swiveling leg for standing on a flat surface. The leather tab is provided so that the hearing device could be attached to a shirt button.

The receiver microphone is attached to both an "ON/OFF" switch and the earpiece via two coiled wires that have a two-pronged end for battery attachment. Please note that the battery is not functional nor does it have the correct ports for receiving the wire prongs...but it came with the case and fits quite nicely!!

The condition is very good with wear commensurate with a well-loved antique.

WIKIPEDIA has some very inetersting info on this style of hearing aid which was produced from the early 1900s till the late 1930s.

Patented in 1923, this wonderful dental tool is marked "SS WHITE CHURNING SYRINGE #1" and is complete with all attachments including directions to create the proper mixture to produce dentures.

The instrument is made of what appears to be aluminum or stainless steel and is in in excellent condition. The syringe measures about 14 inches long x 3.5 inches wide. The box is complete and a bit tattered, primarily at the seams. It sports 2 detailed labels as pictured. An unusual and rarely found dental tool-of-the-trade!

19thC English instruments are noted for their high quality craftsmanship, and this suppository mold certainly meets this very high standard. Constructed of brass, this footed mold sports 5 tubes for making 2 grain suppositories.

This fine example measuring 6"L x 1.5"W x 1"H, sports a warm patina commensurate with an instrument of this age.

The mold is marked "S. MAW & SONS, THOMPSON - LONDON", a noted manufacturer of quality medical instruments and tools for many years).

Offered is a vintage 1940 - 1950 era Drugstore Pharmacy BABY NEEDS advertising sign from Johnson and Johnson which features an adorable, blue-eyed baby in a lace bonnet. This sign was likely placed in a prominent section of the drugstore, guiding shoppers to the area which sold all manner of products to care for baby.

This lovely advertising sign sports an eye-catching robin's egg blue border that encapsulates J&J's iconic infant image.

The painted sign measures 33.5"L x 7"W x .35" Thick and is constructed of wood. The back has two wood support brackets attached as seen in the photo. The condition is very good with a few scratches and light surface wear.

An absolute must-have sign with fabulous "visual presence" that's sure to add energy to your collection!

Offered is Dr. C.H. Fitch's Prescription Scale-- a wonderful, early, pharmacist/doctor, portable, pocket-sized, Victorian era scale! The fancy-scrolled and embellished metal case appears to be brass with nickel plating and reads, "Dr. C.H. Fitch's Prescription Scale Pat Sept 29th 1885" on the top.

The diminutive metal case with scale inside measures approximately 1.5" wide x 2.75" long x .75" deep and is in very nice, original condition. The scale's capacity is 1/2 to 20 grains. It was manufactured by the N.V. Randolph Paper Box Company, Richmond, VA.

****NOTE****There is no damage to the scale or case and no missing components! The original spatula, which is sometimes lost over the years, is present and completes this very handsome, visually-appealing piece!

Some history: Joseph Williamson Randolph (1815-1893) established his business as publisher, bookseller, and stationer in Richmond, Virginia, in 1831. By the early 1840s, he had formed a partnership with Joseph J. English, and the firm became one of the leading book dealers in the South by the time of the Civil War. After Randolph's death, his son, Norman Y. Randolph, operated the business until it passed into receivership. Norman Randolph was, at various times, president of the Randolph Paper Box Company, the Virginia State Insurance Company, and the Warwick Park Transportation Company. He also served as secretary-treasurer of the Virginia and North Carolina Wheel Company.

Offered is a very special circa 1940's - World War II, Snake Bite Medical Kit produced by Burroughs Wellcome Co. New York, New York.

This neat kit was a special issue item produced during WWII labeled WAR EMERGENCY PACKING as noted on the side panel of box. There are 2 boxes with this item - an exterior box that is stained, worn and tattered, and a second box- the interior box that is in very good condition except for some ancient, dried fluid staining on the inside (see photos for further details).

The contents include 1 TOURNIQUET (with a 1938 Patent Date) - 3 IODINE SWABS in small box (not original) - 1 retracting SNAKE BITE LANCET - 1 VENOM SUCTION SYRINGE - 2 different rubber SUCTION CUPS - 2 ADHESIVE COMPRESSES (3 originally) 1 TUBE SYRINGE LUBRICANT. Missing AMMONIA

The outside of the box is complete with printed directions including how to execute the various cuts designed to cause blood to flow freely from the snake bite location!

A seldom -found, WW2 era, emergency snake bite kit that appears to be in unused condition with a missing ammonia packet and a couple of additional items that were deemed potentially necessary by the owner. Measures 4.25"L x 2.75"W x 1.75"H.

Very hard to find in this condition!

Offered is a very nice grouping of 5 "ANCHOR CANTRUST" RUSTLESS HYPODERMIC NEEDLES.

Each circa 1940s era box originally contained a dozen high quality needles. The boxes and needles are all identical in size and labeling. Each needle clips into a metal tray and sports a wire cleaner which resides inside the needle.

There are a total of 33 needles within the 5 boxes, all measuring about 3 inches long, and all in fine condition. Three of the boxes are in very good condition; two boxes are in fair condition showing mild loss of the box label on the edges as well as some carton separation.

An exact example of these high end needles exists at the NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY.....Pretty neat!

Offered are 2 very scarce, circa 1940's, glass, hospital signs acquired many years ago out of a New Jersey hospital that was undergoing modernization and renovation.

These glass SPINAL CORRECTION signs once hung near the entryway of the physical therapy department and are ready for display in your collection!

The first sign measures 13 inches long x 3 inches high and is of thick, heavy plate glass construction. The second sign has the same description but has about and inch missing in length. The signs sport gold-toned, applied lettering and are finished off in black paint, such as in the style seen in reverse-painted glass objects. There is some paint loss and lifting which is commensurate with older painted glass.

A very cute vintage drug store/pharmacy display from the 1940s era!

This complete display consists of 24, small 'sample' medicine boxes, each of which contain colorful little red pills!

Each small box's label includes ingredients described as 'laxative and cathartic’.

Packed by CHANDLER MEDICINE CO. - Office 2812 Dodier Street, ST. LOUIS, MO., the display measures 6" x 5" x 1" and is in unused, very nice condition. ***NOTE*** The left side edges of the box have separated from each corner and the front top panel which serves as the front display when open is partially detached from its side. This type of separation does occur over time and is noted for full disclosure. AS noted in photos, this display presents wonderfully despite its minor, age-related flaws.

A great, visually-appealing collectible for the pharmacist, nurse or doctor in your life!