Panama Appraisal

Vintage 'Panama' Advertising Tin/Button

This item is a circular, shallow tin or large button featuring a vibrant graphic design related to Panama. The central motif depicts a map-like representation of the Isthmus of Panama in green, set against a blue background suggestive of water. Above the landmass, a stylized red and white seaplane with floats is flying. The word 'PANAMA' is prominently displayed across the land graphic in bold, red, serif lettering outlined in white. The item appears to be constructed from metal, likely tin, with a lithographed or printed design on its face. Its circular shape suggests it could be a container lid, a pin-back button (though no backing mechanism is visible), or a decorative medallion. The colors are still relatively bright, but there are visible signs of wear consistent with age and handling. This includes small scuffs and scratches across the surface, particularly noticeable on the blue background and edges, and some minor discoloration or patina. There's a small mark that looks like a circular indentation or manufacturing imperfection near the 'A' in 'Panama'. The overall condition suggests a vintage piece that has been used or stored for some time. The additional context provided states 'Manifold supplies company Brooklyn, New York made in USA Penn Marke group letters tin', indicating this is a tin manufactured by Manifold Supplies Company, Brooklyn, New York, under the 'Penn Marke' group, suggesting it might have been an advertising or commemorative piece. Given the seaplane and 'Panama' inscription, it likely references the Panama Canal or early air travel to the region. This piece would likely originate from the mid-20th century, possibly 1930s-1950s, a period when air travel and canal routes were significant.