Rare WWII-era Lydia E. Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound copper printing plate lot featuring original reversed newspaper advertising blocks used for period press printing.
This is a set of five (5) authentic copper printing plates recovered from a Midwestern newspaper print shop archive. Each plate features reversed text and halftone imagery consistent with genuine newspaper press production from approximately 1935–1945.
The ads promote Pinkham’s well-known women’s tonic marketed for relief of “female weakness” and “nervous distress,” offering a fascinating glimpse into mid-20th-century women’s health marketing language.
Notable Features:
• Two distinct advertisement variations represented (5 total plates)
• Authentic reversed typography and image halftones
• Period press mounting and wear
• Strong legibility and display appeal
• Wonderful industrial patina from decades of storage
Each plate measures approximately 2" x 4".
The final photo shows a similar period advertisement for reference. The exact ad variations from this lot have not been located in archival newspapers, making this matched working set especially compelling for collectors.
An outstanding opportunity for collectors of:
• Patent medicine memorabilia
• Feminist or medical advertising history
• WWII-era ephemera
• Vintage printmaking artifacts
• Industrial / apothecary décor
These display beautifully in a shadow box or alongside other antique press materials.
Good vintage condition with honest pressroom wear.
Light oxidation, surface patina, and minor edge wear consistent with authentic use. No major structural damage. All plates remain solid and legible.
Please review photos carefully for full condition detail — these are original working press artifacts, not reproductions.
Plates will be individually wrapped and cushioned to prevent scratching during transit. Shipped in a rigid box with protective padding.
Fast handling time.
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