Brass Fire Extinguisher Appraisal

Vintage Fyr-Fyter Dayton Copper and Brass Fire Extinguisher

This is a vintage 2.5-gallon soda-acid fire extinguisher manufactured by The Fyr-Fyter Company of Dayton, Ohio. The cylindrical body is constructed of polished copper featuring a heavy-gauge build with visible horizontal seams. It is adorned with a large, centrally mounted brass identification plate containing embossed instructions and manufacturer details. The plate explicitly states 'The Dayton Fire Extinguisher' and 'For Fire Turn Bottom Up'. The top of the canister features a robust brass screw-on cap integrated with a distinctive four-spoke cage-style handle for easy gripping. A flexible rubber discharge hose, red in color, is attached to a brass elbow fitting near the top shoulder and terminates in a tapered metal nozzle. Based on the design and manufacturing marks, this piece likely dates to the early to mid-20th century (circa 1930s-1950s). The condition appears well-maintained with a high-luster polish across the copper surfaces, though minor superficial scratches, light oxidation on the brass components, and small dents consistent with age and previous service are present. The red rubber hose appears intact but may show typical hardening or surface cracking common in vintage firefighting equipment. Overall, the piece displays high-quality industrial craftsmanship with thick metal walls and heavy riveted or soldered construction, making it a desirable piece of fire-fighting memorabilia.