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Four-column Match Vendor

Maker unknown, c. 1920s (est.), 14 ¹/₂". This 4-column match vendor is nearly identical to the 5-column match vendor elsewhere on this website, except...you know...five versus four. And the graphics. Oh, and the coin slot location. The type of wood looks the same in both, the wood pieces have the same contours on both, the shape and attachment method of the curved metal panel are the same, and the handles you pull down to dispense the matches are the same. I'd give long odds that these have a common birthplace but it's a mystery what that is.

As with the 5-column vendor, the curved metal panel on front makes this piece. Without the strong graphics this machine would be stately but uninteresting, and with them it pops. It's what drove my interest in it and it drives others' interest in it as well.

The example pictured above is 100% original and in outstanding condition.