AI Appraisal Estimate

This item is a vintage folded road map for the states of Oregon and Washington, published by Gousha Chek-Chart. The cover recto features a bold, mid-century modern design with a warm yellow background on the top third, housing the publisher's name 'GOUSHA CHEK-CHART' and the title 'OREGON WASHINGTON ROAD MAP' in a sans-serif typeface. Below the title, smaller text indicates 'with Mini-Maps of Eugene, Portland, Salem, Seattle-Tacoma, Spokane, Yakima.' The lower two-thirds of the cover present a graphic design of intersecting black lines, resembling roads, forming a stylized four-leaf clover pattern. Within each 'leaf' of the clover, a teardrop shape is filled with a distinct color: orange, yellow, bright green, and light blue. The bottom edge of the cover is primarily white with thin red and blue stripes running horizontally. Some visible wear is apparent along the edges and folds, including minor scuffing and discoloration, particularly along the top and left edges of the yellow section, suggesting frequent handling and age. The paper appears to be standard map stock, likely somewhat thin and prone to creasing. The overall aesthetic points to an estimated age from the mid-20th century, possibly the 1960s or 1970s, given the 'mod' graphic design and color palette. It is a functional item designed for navigation, but also serves as a nostalgic piece of automobilia; its quality is typical for a commercially produced road map of its era.

I have carefully examined the provided image of the Gousha Chek-Chart Oregon Washington Road Map. Visually, the mid-century modern design elements, particularly the bold yellow background and stylized 'four-leaf clover' graphic with bright, distinct colors (orange, yellow, bright green, light blue), strongly suggest a publication date from the 1960s to early 1970s. This aligns with the 'mod' aesthetic prevalent during that period. The presence of 'Chek-Chart' on the cover also helps to date it, as this branding was prominent then. The map appears authentic to its type as a mass-produced road map of the era. Its condition, as described and visible, shows typical wear for a frequently handled and folded paper item of this age, including scuffing, discoloration, and creasing along edges and folds. This condition is consistent with its intended utilitarian purpose. Market conditions for vintage mass-produced road maps are generally modest. While there is a niche collector base for automobilia and ephemera, common state maps, even those with appealing graphics, do not command high prices unless they are exceptionally rare, pristine, or possess unique historical significance (e.g., very early editions, significant errors, or limited print runs). Comparables from online marketplaces and collector forums for similar Gousha and Chek-Chart maps from the same era typically range from $5 to $30, with higher prices for examples in near-mint condition or those representing particularly popular or scarce regions. Demand for this specific map is likely driven by regional interest (collectors from Oregon/Washington), fans of mid-century graphic design, or general automobilia collectors. Rarity is not a significant factor here; these maps were printed in large quantities. The primary factors impacting value are the visually appealing graphic design, which slightly elevates it above purely utilitarian maps, and its condition, which shows expected wear but no major damage (like large tears, missing pieces, or heavy staining). Without a physical inspection, I cannot verify the exact paper quality, presence of any hidden damage, or the integrity of all folds. An in-person examination would allow me to check for odors (e.g., mildew), paper brittleness, and the precise extent of wear not fully discernible from an image. I also cannot confirm if this map contains any specific internal features or anomalies that might impact its value, such as rare advertising or unique printing errors. However, based on the provided image and description, it is a genuine, good example of a common, appealing vintage road map.