Antique Carr’s Carlisle Biscuit Tin c.1920s – Small Hinged Advertising Tin

Antique Carr’s Carlisle Biscuit Tin c.1920s – Small Hinged Advertising Tin

A wonderfully timeworn early Carr’s advertising tin, produced for the celebrated Carlisle manufacturer of biscuits, chocolates and toffee.

Dating to approximately the 1920s or early 1930s, this unusually small rectangular tin retains its original rich red decoration, black lettering and green-and-gold Carr’s monogram panels. The underside is embossed:

CARR’S

BISCUITS, CHOCOLATES & TOFFEE

CARLISLE

ENGLAND

Its compact proportions suggest that it may originally have held a small presentation assortment or been produced as a sample-sized promotional tin rather than as a conventional household biscuit tin.

Founded in Carlisle in 1831 by Jonathan Dodgson Carr, Carr’s developed into one of Britain’s best-known biscuit manufacturers. Its Carlisle factory became an important local employer, with generations of workers producing the company’s famous biscuits and crackers. This little tin is therefore a charming piece of British advertising, confectionery and industrial social history.

The tin has a hinged lid and remains openable. It has a beautifully aged, untouched appearance, with extensive rubbing to the printed decoration, oxidation, surface rust, staining and general wear throughout. There is also a small irregular hole to the front edge of the lid, most likely caused by old damage or corrosion. The interior displays further corrosion and darkening.

Despite its considerable wear, the Carr’s lettering, monograms and decorative borders remain visible, giving the tin plenty of authentic character. It would make an appealing addition to a collection of antique tins, biscuit advertising, kitchenalia or Carlisle memorabilia.

Condition:

In heavily worn antique condition, with extensive paint loss, rubbing, oxidation, surface rust, interior corrosion and staining. Small hole to the front edge of the lid. The hinge is present and the lid opens. Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description. Sold as a decorative collectable and not suitable for food storage.

Approximate measurements:

Length: 11 cm

Width: 7.5 cm

Height: 5.5 cm