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Generalist : Art, Antiques and Collectibles

Generalist Presents
Generalist visual aid image
Vintage Cast Iron Fire Alarm Call Box
Original Presentation Script

Step back in time with this vintage FDNY cast iron fire alarm call box. Once a staple of New York City streets, these pieces are a testament to early 20th-century urban life. Licorice red and robustly designed, its fluted top and base signify the industrial elegance of its era. Constructed of cast iron, its enduring form carries wear which tells stories of neighborhood duty and historical firefighting methods. Though acquired patina adds to its authenticity vibe, this piece is valued more for its decorative allure rather than functional rarity. A mix of nostalgia and style, it might find auction interest between $200 to $500. In the bustling world of collectibles, this piece assures a slice of old New York without the heated pressures of an active alarm.

Used for this report's TTS and avatar presentation.

Item Report

Vintage Cast Iron Fire Alarm Call Box

By: Unknown

Style: Industrial

Origin: United States

Materials: Cast iron

Age: Circa 1920-1950

Condition: Good (wear consistent with age and outdoor exposure)

Value: Authentic: $200-$500; Reproduction: $50-$100

Maker's Marks / Writing: F.D.N.Y.

Date: 2026-04-29 22:22:42.907431

Description:

A vintage cast iron fire alarm call box from the early to mid-20th century, painted in red with 'F.D.N.Y.' inscribed, featuring decorative details and a fluted design.

Assessment:

This is a vintage piece with historical relevance to urban firefighting methods. It retains its original charm and patina, demonstrating its age and use.

Individual Images:

  • whole fire alarm
  • detail top design
  • detail base design

Provenance:

None documented

Condition:

Good (wear consistent with age and outdoor exposure)

Identification Score: 95%

The item's design and construction strongly suggest it's a vintage FDNY call box used in urban settings.

Authenticity Score: 90%

The patina, wear, and design elements are consistent with originals from the early 20th century, indicating a high probability of authenticity.

Image Memory Note

None     None

Keywords

call box, FDNY, fire alarm, vintage, cast iron, United States

The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
Report ID:  : cuf576

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