Pioneer Pictorial Centennial Edition St. Paul Sunday Pioneer Press Supplement April 29, 1956 Appraisal
Category: Newspaper Supplement
Description
This item is a newspaper supplement titled "Pioneer Pictorial Centennial Edition". It's a single page printed on what appears to be newsprint paper, folded vertically. The front features a colorful, illustrated map-style depiction of various historical events and locations related to Minnesota, celebrating a centennial. The illustrations are cartoonish and rendered in a limited color palette primarily featuring red, blue, green, yellow, and black. Text blocks accompany each illustration, providing brief descriptions of the historical points. The overall aesthetic is typical of newspaper illustration from the mid-20th century. The paper shows signs of age, including yellowing and possibly some minor edge wear, though the printing remains legible. The supplement measures approximately the size of a standard broadsheet newspaper page when unfolded. There appear to be fold lines down the center and horizontally. No specific damage is immediately obvious beyond typical aging of newsprint. There are no visible maker's marks, signatures, or production details other than the title and publication information at the top left. This piece likely served as a special insert in the St. Paul Sunday Pioneer Press on April 29, 1956, celebrating 100 years, although the centennial date would imply 1958 for the state of Minnesota. It's a piece of ephemeral print media reflecting regional history and journalism.
Appraisal Report
I have examined the provided image of the "Pioneer Pictorial Centennial Edition" St. Paul Sunday Pioneer Press supplement from April 29, 1956. Based on the visual evidence, this appears to be an authentic newspaper supplement from the stated date, likely celebrating a different centennial than the state itself given the 1956 date. The design and printing style are consistent with mid-20th century newspaper supplements. The condition appears fair to good based on the image; typical yellowing and fold lines are evident, which is expected for aged newsprint. There are no apparent tears or significant stains visible in the image. This item falls into the category of ephemeral regional print media. While demand for newspaper supplements can exist among local history enthusiasts, collectors of ephemera, or those interested in mid-century illustration, it is generally not high-value. Rarity is moderate; while not mass-produced for national distribution, supplements like this were printed in significant quantities for a local audience. Market comparables for regional newspaper supplements of this era suggest values consistent with collectible paper ephemera rather than high-end collectibles. Factors impacting value include the visual appeal of the illustration, the specific historical focus, and the condition. Without physical inspection, I cannot definitively assess paper quality, brittleness, subtle wear such as minor edge nicks or pinholes, or odor (mustiness), which would influence condition and value. Full authentication would ideally involve a physical inspection to compare paper stock, printing methods, and aging patterns with known authentic examples of St. Paul Pioneer Press publications from this period. Provenance, while unlikely for such an item, could add minor value.
Appraisal Value
$15-30