Early Fire Extinguisher Appraisal

Vintage Pyrene Vaporizing Liquid Fire Extinguisher

This is a vintage hand-pump style fire extinguisher, likely manufactured by the Pyrene Manufacturing Company, dating from the early to mid-20th century (circa 1920s-1950s). The item features a cylindrical body made of heavy-gauge brass or copper with a dark, naturally aged patina showing significant oxidation and surface wear. It is approximately 13 to 15 inches in height. The body is characterized by vertical recessed fluting or ribs intended for grip, along with horizontal banding at the top and bottom. It features a T-handle pump grip at the apex, which appears to be made of cast metal. A small nozzle is visible at the very bottom, while a textured filler cap is located on the shoulder of the cylinder. There is an area for a brass identification plate on the front, though it appears heavily tarnished or missing in the image. The condition is consistent with age, showing a mottled surface with darkening, minor pitting, and some potential verdigris. These units originally contained carbon tetrachloride, which is now known to be toxic, making current functionality secondary to its value as a historical industrial collectible. The craftsmanship is robust, typical of industrial safety equipment from the pre-war era.