I’ve really come to appreciate this wonderful seller’s descriptions. They are typically jammed with helpful information presented in an orderly, clear manner. Other sellers should take notice. The extreme description sparsity on one end and the froufrou encrusted descriptions on the other end should give way to more of a no-nonsense presentation of the item, when it was produced, by which firm when known, dimensions and finally a detailed account of description.
Blog
Mark B. Ledenbach's vintage Halloween collectibles blog.
1930's-1940's Halloween die cut Skeleton head with pirate hat
I don't believe I have seen this variant before. The seller incorrectly attributes this to Beistle. It was made in 1935 in Germany. I have seen the basic skull and crossbones diecut with three different hats before seeing this one, so there were at least 4 designs, but more likely a total of 6 designs. If the damage wasn't so obvious, it would be a candidate for acquisition.
1930's Dennison Halloween Skull and Crossbones Die cut MINT!!
I'm so glad to see this rare diecut finally getting some collector love! This non-embossed diecut, made by Dennison and first appearing in their 1929 Price List pamphlet, wasn't made for many seasons. The paper stock on which it was printed was thin, so finding one in near-mint or better condition is a coup.
Old Vintage 1930s Halloween German Skull and Crossbones with Hat Beret Diecut
I love seeing rare and visually compelling items populating the generally drab Ebay listings - and then to find such an item being sold by a premier seller - just makes the treat that much richer. There were at least two variants the Germans created in the 1930s of their basic skull and crossbones design. One is this one being sold now while the other, with a plume, can be seen on page 178. Both are valuable, with sustainable guide values of $525.
10/29 Update: The end of the season is drawing near and lots of money has been spent, making the great items listed this late end at relative bargain levels. The buyer scooped this up for a mere $404.99.
Early German Embossed Halloween Stand-Up Die-Cut Skull & Crossbones
Who is azpaperlady and where is she getting such rare, wonderful paper items? Will she adopt me? The Germans manufactured these fancy hat skull and crossbones diecuts in at least two variations toward the middle thirties. As with so much of their output at that time, these diecuts primarily headed to Canada. The variant shown in my second edition on page 164 is valued at $400. Given the splendid condition of the diecut being offered for sale (Who cares about the easel?), I feel it should end right around there.
10/01 Update: The ending price blew right past the forecasted $400 ending price settling at $967.77. This result is one I don't understand since several of these in similar condition have sold over the past year in a narrow range of $375-475. Perhaps it is the excitement engendered by the onset of the season!
