Item Report
Mid-20th Century American Red Metal Safety Gasoline Cans
By: Unknown (likely Eagle, Justrite, or similar manufacturer)
Style: Industrial, Americana
Origin: United States
Materials: Steel, painted enamel
Age: circa 1940s-1960s
Condition: Good (visible paint loss, dents, oxidation; suitable for display but not use)
Value: $40 - $100 USD (each, depending on condition and maker)
Maker's Marks / Writing: No visible maker's mark or writing in the provided image.
Date: 2025-06-03 17:11:58.348990
Description:
These are three vintage red-painted safety gasoline cans from the mid-20th century. Such cans were commonly used for safely storing and pouring small quantities of gasoline or other flammable liquids. They feature spring-loaded caps, steel carrying handles, and secondary handles for controlled pouring, all characteristic of safety cans designed to minimize spillage and reduce fire risk.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
These industrial safety cans are collectible examples of mid-century American utilitarian design. Their value is mostly decorative, appealing to collectors of petroliana and vintage industrial objects. Wear, chips, and patina add authenticity and visual appeal for display.
Individual Images:
- No additional detail images provided; all cans show surface wear and use
- with some loss of paint and surface oxidation indicating age.
Provenance:
No provenance information provided.
Condition:
Good (visible paint loss, dents, oxidation; suitable for display but not use)
Identification Score: 90%
The unique shape, industrial handles, and safety spouts make these easily identifiable as mid-century American metal gasoline safety cans. Exact maker is not fully determinable without closer inspection of stamps or labels.
Authenticity Score: 85%
Visible wear and patina are consistent with age and usage. No modern sealing or labeling is visible, but image focus limits closer inspection.
Image Memory Note
Keywords
industrial, gasoline can, safety can, petroliana, vintage metalware, mid-century, Americana
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