Retro Spice Dispenser Appraisal

Vintage Whirley Industries Select-A-Spice Salt and Pepper Shakers

This is a set of three vintage mechanical salt and pepper shakers manufactured by Whirley Industries in Warren, PA, dating approximately to the 1960s or 1970s. The units are rectangular, multi-compartment dispensers constructed from a combination of molded opaque colored plastics (cream, orange, and teal bases) and clear acrylic or polystyrene windows. Each shaker features two clear side wells for contents and a central mechanism topped with black and white push-buttons that switch between salt and pepper dispensing. The first unit is cream with a black printed advertisement reading 'FOR SALE HERE... ASK YOUR WAITRESS', suggesting use as a diner promotional item. The second is orange with a black graphic of California labeled 'CALIFORNIA GOLDEN STATE.' The third is teal with the manufacturer mark 'WHIRLEY INDUSTRIES WARREN, PA' embossed on the front base. The condition shows age-related yellowing of the clear plastic, visible surface scuffing, and minor residue within the wells. The mechanical buttons appear intact, although the internal spring mechanisms may require testing. These mid-century utilitarian items reflect the era's fascination with plastic engineering and novelty kitchenware.