Lot 334

American Union Telegraph Co. Advertising Utility Tub / Coal Scuttle Style Metal Container

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Lot 334
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American Union Telegraph Co. Advertising Utility Tub / Coal Scuttle Style Metal Container
American Union Telegraph Co. Advertising Utility Tub / Coal Scuttle Style Metal Container
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American Union Telegraph Co. Advertising Utility Tub / Coal Scuttle Style Metal Container

Current Bid: $15

(3 Bids)
by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

An uncommon American Union Telegraph Co. advertising utility tub featuring the company's iconic shield logo prominently displayed on the front in black, gold, red, and cream. Constructed of painted metal with rolled rim and wire swing handles, the tub was likely produced as a promotional or employee-use utility vessel and today survives as an appealing piece of American communications history. Founded in 1866, the American Union Telegraph Company emerged as one of the principal competitors to Western Union during the late nineteenth century. Following rapid expansion throughout the United States, the company was ultimately absorbed by Western Union in 1881, making surviving advertising and branded utilitarian objects bearing the American Union name comparatively scarce. Pieces associated with the company are highly sought after by collectors of early telecommunications, railroad, and advertising memorabilia due to the firm's brief independent existence and historical significance. The present example features an attractive lithographed shield emblem with patriotic stars and stripes, retaining strong color against a dark painted body. Its generous size and practical form make it equally suitable as a display piece, wastebasket, planter cachepot, fireplace accessory, or addition to a collection of early American advertising. A desirable and visually striking survivor representing one of America's pioneering telegraph companies, offering broad appeal to collectors of communication history, industrial advertising, and Americana.

  • Literature: For related material, see: • Robert L. Thompson, Wiring a Continent: The History of the Telegraph Industry in the United States. • Maury Klein, The Life and Legend of Jay Gould (discussing the American Union Telegraph Company and its competition with Western Union). • Comparable American telegraph advertising and utility wares illustrated in various telecommunications and advertising memorabilia references.
  • Circa: Mid to Late 20th Century, likely circa 1960s–1980s.
  • Condition: Overall good vintage condition. Painted metal body exhibits expected surface wear, scattered scratches, edge abrasions, and minor paint loss consistent with age and use. Advertising decal remains well preserved with moderate edge wear. Handles are intact and functional. No significant dents or structural damage observed.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50