Hartford Ruler Appraisal

Vintage Hartford Fire Insurance Co. Metal Advertising Ruler

This is an antique metal advertising ruler issued as a promotional item by 'The Hartford Fire Ins. Co.' of Hartford, Conn. The item is constructed from a single piece of pressed metal with a greenish-gray industrial patina, featuring rounded, tubular edges for structural rigidity. It measures approximately 9 inches in length with a dual-sided design. Central to the piece is the famous Hartford 'Stag' logo etched alongside bold black typography. A particularly notable feature is the historical data printed on the left side, listing 'Losses Paid' at various major city disasters, including the Chicago Fire of 1871 and the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906. The condition shows heavy age-related wear, including significant surface oxidation, scratches, and fading of the lithographed text, which adds an authentic historical patina. There are minor dings and evidence of rusting, particularly at the bottom edge and near the hanging hole at the top. This item likely dates to the early 20th century (circa 1910-1920) and serves as a significant example of insurance industry lithographed ephemera from that era.