St. Paul Sunday Pioneer Press Centennial Edition, April 14, 1940 Appraisal
Category: Publication
Description
This appears to be a vintage newspaper supplement or special edition, titled "CENTENNIAL Edition" in large yellow and green lettering with a shadowed effect across the top. Beneath the title, in smaller text set within a white oval, it reads "ST. PAUL SUNDAY PIONEER PRESS", followed by "SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 1940", and then "RAILROADS * AIR LINES * MOTOR FREIGHT LINES". The cover features a vibrant, multicolor illustration depicting various modes of transportation with a city backdrop. A large, propeller-driven airplane is shown in the sky above a city. Below, a streamlined train is on tracks heading towards the foreground. In the lower foreground, a bright yellow and green streetcar is on the left, a white and teal bus is in the center, and a red and white truck with "OVERLAND" written on its side is on the right. The illustration is in a somewhat simplified, mid-20th century style. The paper itself shows signs of age, with discoloration around the edges and likely some brittleness. There is visible creasing on the right side. The quality of the printing appears to be typical of a newspaper of that era. The overall condition appears fair to good considering its age, with no major tears or significant damage visible in the image beyond expected wear.
Appraisal Report
Having examined the provided image of the St. Paul Sunday Pioneer Press Centennial Edition from April 14, 1940, I can offer the following appraisal. Based on the visual evidence, the item appears to be an authentic special edition newspaper supplement from the stated date. The design, typography, and illustration style are consistent with publications from the early 1940s. The bold "CENTENNIAL Edition" title with the transportation theme strongly suggests a special focus relevant to St. Paul's history or a major milestone. Condition, from the image, appears fair to good for its age. Visible discoloration, creasing on the right edge, and anticipated brittleness are common for paper items of this vintage. There are no apparent major tears or significant damage that would drastically devalue the item. Newspaper supplements of this era, especially those commemorating specific events or milestones like a centennial, have a niche market among collectors of local history, transportation ephemera, and those interested in the specific newspaper's history. Demand is moderate; while not exceedingly rare, these editions were often discarded, making surviving copies somewhat less common than standard daily editions. Comparables for similar regional newspaper supplements from this period vary widely based on condition, subject matter, and historical significance. Limitations in authentication based solely on the image include the inability to verify the paper's feel, smell, and precise texture. Physical examination is required to confirm the extent of brittleness, look for subtle tears or repairs not visible in the photograph, and assess overall integrity. Provenance documentation (how the item was acquired, its history) would provide further authentication context. As a historical newspaper, scientific testing is not typically necessary unless there were concerns about forgery, which is unlikely for this type of item. The value is primarily driven by its age, specific historical context (centennial, transportation theme), visual appeal of the cover illustration, and condition.
Appraisal Value
$25-50