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Up for acquisition is a rare "time capsule" collection of eleven (11) original Currier & Ives wall calendars published by The Travelers Insurance Companies of Hartford, Connecticut. This lot offers a unique glimpse into mid-century corporate advertising, featuring two complete 1967 editions and nine complete 1968 editions.
These items are pristine examples of vintage advertising ephemera—perfect for a collector of Americana, historical insurance documentation, or lithographic art.
🌟 Collection Highlights
New Old Stock (NOS): This lot consists of clean, unused calendars. The pages are crisp, free of writing, and have been preserved in excellent condition.
Original Packaging: The 1968 calendars are housed in their original Travelers Insurance mailing carton, complete with the original shipping label.
Large Format: Each calendar measures approximately 22” x 16”.
Artistic Merit: The calendars feature iconic Currier & Ives lithographs, including Winter in the Country, Skating Scene – Moonlight, and various nautical, rail, and seasonal scenes.
🏛 The History: Travelers & Currier & Ives
Founded in 1864 in Hartford, Connecticut, Travelers Insurance became a titan of the American insurance industry, known globally for the iconic "red umbrella" logo. From the 1930s through the 1970s, Travelers commissioned high-quality prints of classic Currier & Ives artwork for their annual promotional calendars. These were not just functional tools; they were a way to bring fine art into the American home while reinforcing the company’s stability and tradition. Today, these calendars are highly sought-after artifacts of 20th-century American business history.
🔍 Condition Notes
The lot is in exceptional condition. Ten calendars are in near-mint, excellent condition. One 1968 copy shows light, age-appropriate smudging on the cover, though the interior remains unused and complete. The collection includes detailed prints such as Robinson Crusoe and His Man Friday, Winter in the Country, Skating Scene – Moonlight, The Gem of the Pacific, and A Summer Retreat.
Shipping & Handling
This lot will be carefully packed to preserve the integrity of the original 1968 shipping carton and the crisp edges of the calendars. We understand the importance of preserving historical ephemera and will ensure safe, tracked shipping.
