Antique 1875 Lorillard Tin Tag Tobacco Cutter Cast Iron General Store Sign Plug For Sale

Title: Antique P. Lorillard Company "Tin Tag" Plug Tobacco Cutter – Exceptional Original Paint & StencilingOverview:Up for sale is a beautifully preserved, 100% authentic late-19th-century cast-iron guillotine tobacco plug cutter commissioned for the historic P. Lorillard Tobacco Company. This heavy mercantile tool features deeply embossed lettering reading "Lorillard's Tin Tag Tobacco" on both sides of the base and arch, as well as "T.A.C. Plug Tobacco" across the platform.Originally utilized in a general store or mercantile setting to slice dense blocks of pressed chewing tobacco for customers, this piece has survived nearly 150 years with an incredibly rare amount of its original factory aesthetics intact.Condition Details & Collector Notes:Original Paint & Stenciling: Unlike the vast majority of surviving cutters that have been aggressively scrubbed down or entirely rusted over, this specimen boasts stunning, untouched Victorian factory stenciling on the rear spine of the arch featuring a crisp red interwoven knot pattern bordered in cream/gold line work. Traces of original red pinstriping highlights are also still visible within the embossed lettering.Mechanical Status: The heavy iron lever mechanism drops smoothly down. The original steel blade is securely in place via its dual-screw carriage.Metal Integrity: The cast iron retains a gorgeous, authentic dark brown aged patina with no cracks, structural breaks, or repairs. There is minor surface oxidation consistent with its age, giving it the perfect rustic farmhouse or historical presentation look.Note: The metal has been left completely uncleaned and unpolished to preserve its maximum value for the next owner. We strongly advise against using harsh chemical rust removers, as it will strip the highly sought-after original stenciling.