Catalog: Vintage Arts (97)

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.

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!

The larger boxed set contains 38 vials which are nearly empty and sport complete paper labels. There are 2 missing vials from this kit. It measures 6" long x 5" wide x 1.5" high. The inside cover of this larger boxed set lists the names of the 38 allergens contained in the kit.

The small boxed set contains 28 corked top vials which have the same type paper labels as found in the larger kit. This kit measures 5" long x 2" wide x 1.5" high and is missing (or never had) 8 vials.

These skin sensitivity testing kits contain vials which are specific to the southern California area.

A scarce duo indeed!

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.

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!

This wonderful folk art decoy was recently acquired from the collection of an 81 year old Kansas collector who stated that the decoy originated in Montana.

Expertly carved and painted to simulate an actual Perch fish, this beauty quite closely reflects the real thing!

In fact, this charmer has some subtle signs of having once been an actual working decoy as evidenced by the light areas of superficial rust on the tin fins and at the junction where the fishing line connects to the eyelet in front of the dorsal fin. Clearly, given this decoy's incredible condition and its 80+ age, it did not see much use below the waterline!

There is faint loss of paint and light wear giving this a work of art a wonderful vintage patina. Two weights are present on the underside of Mr. Perch. Measures 9 inches long x 3 inches wide x 2.5 inches high including the fins. Maker unknown.

An utterly splendid work of folk art!

Please take a moment to view our other fish decoys offered for sale by typing "decoy" into our homepage SEARCH box or by clicking on the "American Folk Art" specialty category on our homepage.

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.

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.

The bowl has glaze crazing typical of an 85+ year old piece of pottery with no cracks or hairlines. Three imperfections are noted and are in close proximity to one another (see photo): a manufacturer’s abrasion that is coated in original glazing and two small, superficial (1/8” and ¼”) flakes.

An lovely piece of American Spongeware! Becoming much more difficult to find- particularly in this condition!

Please type the word "spongeware" into the Search box to find the other pieces of C1900-1920 Ohio Yellowware Spongeware currently being offered for sale. All pieces are prices separately.

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.

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!

This striking example was clearly designed to attract customers with its coloring and bold combination of script and block lettering- all executed in reverse on the underside of the glass. The reverse-painting technique adds additional elegance to the artistic quality of the sign's design. The very sturdy frame is constructed of wood that is enveloped in a heavy gauge metal. The metal portion of the frame has hints of having been painted a few times over the years and shows age appropriate wear.

The sign measures 36"L x 16"W x 1" thick and is in very good condition. There are various mounting holes present. As expected with old glass, some unobtrusive blemishes and small scratches are also present, commensurate with the sign's 100+ years of age. Two very small spots of paint loss are also evident as seen in the photos.

An utterly eye-catching and distinctive, vintage pharmacy sign that will complement any collection!

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!

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.

This empty bottle is in excellent condition with no damage. The ground glass stopper cannot be removed and appears perfect.

The 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.

A difficult to find bottle with a label in this very nice condition.

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!

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!

*****Group #2*****

Some History:
Although homeopathy has its roots in ancient Greek medicine and in the work of the 16th-century physician Paracelsus, modern homeopathy dates back 200 years to the work of the German doctor and chemist, Samuel Hahnemann. Hahnemann qualified as a physician but ceased to practice as a doctor because of what he saw as the barbaric medical practices of his day - which included bloodletting and the overuse of toxic medicines, leading to horrific side effects.

A brilliant linguist, he earned a living from translating books and was interested by a reference in a medical textbook of the use of China (Peruvian bark) as a cure for malaria. Intrigued to know why China worked, he took doses of the remedy until he himself began to exhibit malarial symptoms. He stopped taking the China and the symptoms went away. From this he deduced that the ancient principle of 'like cures like' actually worked.

His next step was to determine if there were safe levels at which toxic substances could be given - and still cure the type of symptoms that they might otherwise cause. His experiments with dilution led him to discover that the more a substance was diluted, the more potent it appeared to become.

Homeopathic medicine was born, but in practicing it, Hahnemann and his followers were subjected to ridicule and persecution by the medical establishment, despite the fact that they were seeing patients getting better on tiny doses of medicines, prescribed on the basis of 'like cures like'. Many European practitioners immigrated to the United States, where homeopathy flourished in the 19th century – until the medical establishment there systematically acted to remove its influence.

Hahnemann ended his days as a renowned and very busy practitioner in Paris, working into his 80's. He is interred at the Cimetière du Père Lachaise, where a large monument honors him and his discovery of Homeopathy.

The condition of this early 1930s nostrum is very good with minimal tarnish to the metal and very light fading to the label.

This medicine tin is unopened and ready for your collection!

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.

This exquisite example exemplifies the early years of Tramp Art at a time when it was practiced largely by skilled craftsmen with artistic talents. Pieces from this era feature a more multi-layered, detailed technique using hard wood bases as opposed to the thin cigar box wood bases prevalent during the early 20th century through the Depression years.

This wonderful, approximate 140 year old piece features multi-layered exterior framing on all sides as well as the box cover; framing which then envelopes amazing pyramidal shapes of all sides.

The box interior is covered in a vibrant floral wallpaper, and it features a small 1.75 inch x 2 inch framed mirror on the underside of the box lid. Likely made for a female given its interior design and decoration, the box also features a functional lock with original key, to safeguard jewels and important mementos.

Measures 8.75 inches wide x 8 inches deep x 6.75 inches high. In very good condition and retaining its original finish! A few missing notch pyramid tips here and there. Just lovely!

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.

There are 3 examples from the most notable company, BECTON, DICKINSON & Co. The 1939 B-D YALE LOC box contains 8 needles. The B-D ERUSTO sample from the early 1940s has 8 needles that are secured in a metal tray. Each needle includes their cleaning wire. The third B-D box has a patent date of 1941 and sports 8 tiny needles secured in a metal tray. Condition is very good.

Next are 2 boxes of ECO RUSTLESS HYPODERMIC NEEDLES that each house 6 needles in a steel cylinder base. The boxes and contents are in very nice condition. A plastic sleeve of cleaning wires remains in one box.

A single box of LILLY HYPODERMIC NEEDLES contains 9 needles that nestle into their fitted box. Condition of the contents is fine, and the box is in fairly good condition showing old tape on front. Dates to the 1940s.

A single box of ECO STAINLESS HYPODERMIC NEEDLES sports 6 needles in a fitted metal base. The contents are fine and the box is modestly worn. This example also dates to the 1940s.

Finally, a partial box of 9 needles clipped into a metal tray round out this very nice grouping of vintage stock. Labeled LUER SLIP and sporting their cleaning wires, this group dates to the 1940s. Box is fair.

Hard to find in this quantity and quality!

Embellished with beaded edges, a large, 5-petal flower, and a detailed leaf on a heavy cardboard-like material that is lined with a red polished cotton, the little purse closes via a hook and eye closure.

It is in overall fine condition with expected creasing given its 100+ years of age as seen in photos, as well as some loose beadwork and a small amount of missing beadwork to the bottom center.

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!

The mirror front has a age-faded salmon colored border surrounding an image of a person's face with protruding tongue, about to swallow a "NR" (Nature's Remedy) tablet. The fading makes it a challenge to read the following which is imprinted around the circumference of the mirror: "Take One Tonight - You'll feel Better In The Morning."

AND....

"Better Than Pills For Liver Ills - Get a 25 Cent Box"

Original mirrored backing is in very fine condition with just a few very minute, superficial scratches.

Manufacturer name stamped on bottom edge: "Parisian Novelty Company, Chicago".

An interesting little advertising piece!

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!

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!

First there is the rare, Parke Davis example labeled "AZOA" (rat virus) designed to exterminate mice, rats and other vermin! This unused, circa 1900, product measures 3.25" high and sports complete labels on both the cork and bottle.

The next bottle is the empty GLOVER'S "IMPERIAL MANGE MEDICINE" which also has a graphically-appealing label featuring the handsome profiles of a horse and dog. Embossing is present on three panels of this deep, amber-colored bottle. Very nice!

The third medicine is the very colorful and unused GOMBAULTS "CAUSTIC BALSAM" skin liniment housed in a screw cap bottle, which is marked 1940 on its box. The box is very good and complete while the bottle shows a covering of modest surface film. The colorful box measures 7 inches tall and comes complete with directions for both human and veterinary use!

The fourth offering is the aqua-colored, embossed H.H.H HORSE MEDICINE D.D.T. 1868 and measures 8.25" tall. There various small closed air bubbles, two tiny lip imperfections and a surface scratch on the back.

The final medicine is a very cute bottle embossed "PRATTS VETERINARY LINIMENT PRATT FOOD CO PHILA USA", measuring 5.5" h x 2"W. This aqua-colored bottle is embossed 485 on the bottom, and has numerous tiny, enclosed, air bubbles, mild faint interior staining and six exterior circular stains on the neck. There is no damage to the bottle, and it displays well!

Quite the quintet! WOW!

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).

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.

Perfect for your laboratory, medical or weird science collection!

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!

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.

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.

The bowl sits on a 1/8" high footed base and has a lovely turned edge rim. It has glaze crazing typical of an 85+ year old piece of pottery as well as two, very tight hairlines approximately 1.50 inches in length. One is placed at the pouring spout and the other near the back fingerhold. There are also two, tiny, 1/8" long superficial flakes--one on the outside edge to the rim and one on the body of the batter bowl. The batter bowl is also missing its wire handle.

An outstanding piece of American Spongeware which is seldom found due to the heavy every-day use that a batter bowl would encounter. Becoming much more difficult to find!

Please type the word "spongeware" into the Search box to find the other pieces of C1900-1920 Ohio Yellowware Spongeware currently being offered for sale. All pieces are prices separately.

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 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 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!

This handsome wooden beauty is embellished with a fancy decorated mortar and pestle on top, stylized, Victorian-look lettering spelling out "PHARMACY" in the center, and vintage-look advertising for "LOG CABIN EXTRACT" at the bottom.

The condition is good with slight areas of paint lifting or loss, primarily on the edge.

A tiny "MADE IN JAPAN" label and the original price tag are present on back. Ready to hang!

The case measures 5.5" L x 5' W x 3" H. Hard to find microscope / laboratory tool of the trade.

The Spencer Lens Company was founded in 1895, but was actually a continuation of the earlier business originally established by Herbert Spencer in the 1840s.

This wonderful folk art decoy was recently acquired from the collection of an 81 year old Kansas collector who stated that the decoy originated in Montana.

This sweet folk art beauty has been skillfully crafted and painted to closely reflect the real thing! In fact, this charmer has signs of having been a working decoy (but not that frequently) as evidenced by the light areas of superficial rust on the tin fins and where the fishing line connects and to the metal eyes.

There is faint paint loss and light wear giving this work of art a wonderful vintage patina. One weight on the underside are present giving this decoy a bit of heft. Measures 9 inches long x 2.5 inches wide x 2 inches high including the dorsal fin. Maker is unknown.

A splendid work of folk art! Please take a moment to view our other fish decoys offered for sale by typing "decoy" into our homepage SEARCH box or by clicking on the "American Folk Art" specialty category on our homepage.

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!

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!

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.

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!

*****Group #1*****

Some History:
Although homeopathy has its roots in ancient Greek medicine and in the work of the 16th-century physician Paracelsus, modern homeopathy dates back 200 years to the work of the German doctor and chemist, Samuel Hahnemann. Hahnemann qualified as a physician but ceased to practice as a doctor because of what he saw as the barbaric medical practices of his day - which included bloodletting and the overuse of toxic medicines, leading to horrific side effects.

A brilliant linguist, he earned a living from translating books and was interested by a reference in a medical textbook of the use of China (Peruvian bark) as a cure for malaria. Intrigued to know why China worked, he took doses of the remedy until he himself began to exhibit malarial symptoms. He stopped taking the China and the symptoms went away. From this he deduced that the ancient principle of 'like cures like' actually worked.

His next step was to determine if there were safe levels at which toxic substances could be given - and still cure the type of symptoms that they might otherwise cause. His experiments with dilution led him to discover that the more a substance was diluted, the more potent it appeared to become.

Homeopathic medicine was born, but in practicing it, Hahnemann and his followers were subjected to ridicule and persecution by the medical establishment, despite the fact that they were seeing patients getting better on tiny doses of medicines, prescribed on the basis of 'like cures like'. Many European practitioners immigrated to the United States, where homeopathy flourished in the 19th century – until the medical establishment there systematically acted to remove its influence.

Hahnemann ended his days as a renowned and very busy practitioner in Paris, working into his 80's. He is interred at the Cimetière du Père Lachaise, where a large monument honors him and his discovery of Homeopathy.

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.

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.

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 a fabulous white ceramic 1950s pharmacy drug store display with decorative gold gilt embellishments. The mortar measures 7 inches tall and the solid pestle is 8.5 inches long.

The condition is near excellent with no damage, cracks or dings.

An outstanding display that will compliment any pharmacy collection.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

This wonderful folk art decoy was recently acquired from the collection of an 81 year old Kansas collector who stated that the decoy originated in Montana.

A delightful and colorful folk art beauty, this decoy has been skillfully crafted and painted to closely reflect an actual fish.

In addition, this charmer has evidence of having been a working decoy as noted by the mild areas of surface rust on the tin fins and where the fishing line connects. There is light loss of paint and wear giving this work of art a wonderful vintage patina. Present are two weights on the underside of the decoy providing a bit of heft. Measures 7.5 inches long x 2.75 inches wide x 2.25 inches high including the fins. Maker is unknown.

A splendid work of folk art!

Please take a moment to view our other fish decoys offered for sale by typing "decoy" into our homepage SEARCH box or by clicking on the "American Folk Art" specialty category on our homepage.