October Fall Classic
Lot 1101:
Description
CURTISS Baby Ruth Gum Metal Sign
This is a true relic of early 20th-century advertising, an extremely rare Curtiss Candy Company “Baby Ruth Gum” tin sign. Curtiss, based in Chicago, Illinois, was an absolute powerhouse in the candy industry, and while they are best known for the Baby Ruth bar (named after President Grover Cleveland’s daughter, Ruth, not the baseball player), they also produced this elusive chewing gum. This lithographed tin sign is an excellent example of the bold, straightforward graphics used in general store advertising of the era. The sign’s condition is heavily distressed and would appeal to a collector who favors “barn-find” or “as-found” pieces with heavy patina. The sign has extensive, deep oxidation and rust across the entire face, resulting in significant paint and color loss, particularly in the lower half. There are multiple holes and tears in the metal, particularly along the left and right edges, with general bending and unevenness. The back is severely rusted and pitted. The overall visual effect of the deep, pervasive rust, however, lends it a rugged, historic character perfect for a rustic setting. H 9.75″, W 20.75″, D 0.25″
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