Antique Victorian/ early 20th century bifurcated rivets tin Thompson's patent

This is a lovely piece of early industrial advertising, and the maker's history helps us date it to approximately 1892–1910. The London and Warrington connection is particularly interesting, as production subsequently moved to Aylesbury.

Antique Bifurcated Rivets Advertising Tin – Thomson's Patent – c.1892–1910

A wonderful survivor from Britain's industrial past, this original antique Bifurcated Rivets advertising tin dates from the late Victorian or early Edwardian period and was produced for the Bifurcated Rivet Company Ltd of London and Warrington.

With its wonderfully aged mustard-yellow background, bold black lettering, decorative typography and detailed illustrations, this charming old tin captures the ingenuity and practical advertising of a bygone age.

Originally used to hold supplies of Thomson's Patent bifurcated rivets, it features the company name prominently displayed across the front, together with an elaborate illustrated advertisement inside the hinged lid.

The original advertising explains how these innovative split-shank rivets could be driven and clinched using an ordinary hammer, without the need to punch a hole or use a separate washer.

They were particularly useful for manufacturing and repairing harnesses, leather straps, machinery belts and other goods made from leather, rubber, sheet iron or wood.

The side of the tin also retains printed instructions explaining how the rivets were used.

Maker's History

The Bifurcated Rivet Company was established in Warrington in 1892 by G. A. Mower, securing British manufacturing rights to an American fastening invention.

The company's innovative rivets offered tradespeople, farmers, harness makers and industrial workers a convenient alternative to traditional fastening methods.

Unlike conventional rivets, their distinctive split ends could be driven through suitable materials and then bent over with a hammer, making repairs faster and more straightforward.

The business grew during the late Victorian and Edwardian years, with Henry John Joscelyne serving as managing director from 1894. The company subsequently became known as the Bifurcated and Tubular Rivet Company Ltd, transferring its manufacturing operations from Warrington to Aylesbury around 1910.

The earlier company name and reference to London and Warrington on this particular tin suggest it dates from approximately 1892–1910, making it an especially interesting piece of early British industrial packaging.

Condition

In original antique condition, showing substantial age-related wear consistent with its history as a working industrial container.

There is extensive surface oxidation, rust, discolouration, scratches and wear to the original lithographed decoration. The exterior lettering remains recognisable, while the illustrated advertisement inside the hinged lid is particularly attractive and relatively well preserved.

The tin opens and closes, and its interior shows considerable surface oxidation. The original contents are no longer present.

It has not been restored or repainted and retains its authentic aged appearance.

Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

Why We Love It

There is something wonderfully appealing about everyday industrial objects that have survived for more than a century.

What was once a humble workshop necessity has become a fascinating piece of social and manufacturing history.

The striking typography, rich yellow and black colours, detailed advertising and beautifully weathered surfaces make this a particularly characterful example.

Perfect for collectors of antique advertising tins, Victorian and Edwardian memorabilia, industrial antiques, workshop curiosities or vintage shop displays.

A genuine little piece of Britain's working past, full of history, character and industrial charm.

18 cm wide

10 cm depth

5 cm tall