Early 20th Century Swingspout Oil Can, Made of Copper-Colored Steel, United States

Details

Description

This is a vintage "Swingspout" oil can, specifically a one-quart liquid measure.

Function:
These cans were designed for dispensing oil, … Read more This is a vintage "Swingspout" oil can, specifically a one-quart liquid measure.

Function:
These cans were designed for dispensing oil, particularly at filling stations, with a pivoting (swing) spout for ease of use and a built-in shut-off valve.

Capacity:
The can is clearly marked "ONE QUART LIQUID" and features an arrow point to indicate the fill level.

Origin:
These cans were patented in the USA by the Swingspout Measure Co., with manufacturing noted in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

Material & Era:
Made of steel with a copper-colored finish, these cans are considered collectibles from the petroliana era, dating roughly from the 1930s to the 1960s, with patents as early as 1918.

Collectibility:
Vintage Swingspout oil cans are sought after by collectors of gas and oil memorabilia due to their historical significance and unique design.

Design and Features: They are characterized by their "swing spout," which can be pivoted to extend for pouring and then rotated back to a closed position for storage or to prevent leaks. The can in the image is made of copper, a common material for these vintage pieces, and marked for "ONE QUART LIQUID" capacity.
Purpose: These cans were widely used for various applications, including lubricating machinery, servicing automobiles at filling stations, and general household use.

Historical Context: The "Swingspout" design often refers to patents from the early 20th century, with patents like Edward A. Bradbury & Jesse D. Hoyt's patent number 1,286,517 issued on December 3, 1918, being notable for the swing spout mechanism. Some variations also gained approval from city authorities, such as "New York City Approved" models, indicating their quality and compliance with standards of the time.

Vintage copper swingspout oil cans are sought after by collectors of petroliana (gas and oil memorabilia) and antique tools.

Measures approximately 6 inches in height (can body), 4 inches in width (can body), and 11 inches in total width from the spout to the handle.

Height: The can itself measures around 6 inches tall.

Width (Body): The width of the can's main body is approximately 4 inches.

Overall Width: The total width, including the spout extending to the handle, is about 11 inches. See less