Designer Perfume Samples Appraisal

Vintage Nips 'Famous Name Perfumes' Sampler Set

This is a mid-20th-century perfume sampler set consisting of approximately 20-25 individual 'Nips'—small, thin glass ampoules containing single-use applications of various fragrances. These ampoules are thin glass tubes with colored tips, often used as color-coding for the specific scent inside. The nips are housed in a rectangular presentation case featuring a decorative gold-toned or brass filigree frame with an ornate embossed pattern. The hinged lid is made of translucent plastic or celluloid and contains an original paper insert labeled 'Selected Famous Name Perfumes PACKAGED IN NIPS,' decorated with pink rose motifs and elegant script. These sets were popular from the late 1940s through the 1950s as a way for consumers to try high-end fragrances like Chanel No. 5 or Lanvin Arpege without purchasing full bottles. Regarding condition, the clear plastic lid shows age-related yellowing and clouding. Some of the nips appear to have evaporated over time, as indicated by varying liquid levels in the ampoules, while others remain full. The metallic frame exhibits a slight dark patina consistent with age. This item is a classic example of vintage vanity accessories and fragrance marketing history.