Americana Tin Tray Appraisal

Early 20th Century Washington D.C. Tin Litho Souvenir Tray

This is an authentic antique souvenir tray from Washington D.C., dating to the early 1900s. The tray is constructed of pressed tin with a lithographed design, featuring a classic black-lacquered border and a central faux-woodgrain (tiger maple style) field. The scalloped, 'pie-crust' edge is accented with gold-toned scrolling filigree and floral motifs at the cardinal points. The central illustration depicts five iconic landmarks of the United States capital in fine black line-art: the U.S. Capitol Building in the center, flanked by the White House, the Treasury Building, and the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials. Condition is fair to good for its age, showing visible wear consistent with an early 20th-century functional object. Notable damage includes several prominent dents on the undulated rim, surface scratches, and 'crazing' or cracking of the lithographed finish due to age and temperature fluctuations. There is visible loss of paint and gilding along the raised edges and corners. The tray represents a popular style of 'Tin Litho' Americana collectibles from the pre-WWII era, likely manufactured by a company such as the American Can Co. or similar metalware firms common during the 1910s-1930s.