Lot # 63 - Vintage Merck & Co. Wooden Crate – Industrial Pharmaceutical History

Opening Bid : $ 5.00
Start Date/Time: 12-Nov-2025 7:00:00 AM
End Date/Time: 19-Nov-2025 8:04:00 PM
Current bid:

$36.00

Highest bidder:

DustyString

Auction has ended

Description :

A rare original crate from Merck & Co., Inc., one of America’s most influential pharmaceutical manufacturers. This piece offers strong provenance and versatile restoration appeal.

Key Highlights:

  • Provenance:

    • Produced by Merck & Co., Inc., a company founded in the 1890s and headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey.

    • Marked with multiple historic manufacturing locations: Rahway, NJ; Teterboro, NJ; St. Louis; and Los Angeles.

    • Features Merck’s distinctive cross-pattern logo, reinforcing its mid-century branding and industrial identity.

    • Likely dates from the mid-20th century, aligning with Merck’s expansion and national distribution efforts.

  • Design & Construction:

    • Solid wood build with visible grain, knots, and reinforced corners.

    • Bold printed text and logo remain legible, contributing to its display value.

    • Sturdy base suitable for stacking, storage, or repurposing.

  • Restoration Potential:

    • Ideal candidate for light refinishing or sealing to enhance wood tone while preserving original markings.

    • Can be repurposed as a display piece, planter box, shelving unit, or retail prop.

    • Suitable for restoration enthusiasts seeking authentic industrial materials with historical significance.

  • Condition:

    • Structurally sound with surface wear, fading, and patina consistent with age.

    • One crack on the base- see photos for details; retains integrity for both display and functional use.

This crate offers a compelling blend of pharmaceutical history and industrial charm—perfect for collectors, decorators, or restoration projects.


Dimensions : 16 in L x 14 in W x 15 in H

Auction History

Highest bidder is DustyString

Date Bid User
19-Nov-2025 8:01:30 PM $36.00 DustyString
19-Nov-2025 6:30:37 PM $26.00 Danasue
19-Nov-2025 6:30:24 PM $25.00 AVVM
19-Nov-2025 6:30:24 PM $24.00 Danasue
12-Nov-2025 6:03:24 PM $22.00 AVVM
12-Nov-2025 6:03:24 PM $21.00 Dakiam
12-Nov-2025 3:42:22 PM $16.00 AVVM
12-Nov-2025 3:39:40 PM $6.00 Dakiam
12-Nov-2025 11:31:12 AM $5.00 AVVM

PAYMENT DETAILS

Placing a bid is an agreement to purchase. If you win, you must pick up your item(s). If you default on your purchase, your bidding privileges will be revoked permanently. Do not bid if you do not plan to purchase.If you bid, you MUST be available/arrange for pick-up of purchases on the pick-up date unless you have made prior shipping arrangements. Bring necessary tools and help for picking up large items. Loading assistance is NOT available. Some items may be located on a 2nd floor, out building.

Invoices are emailed to winning bidders once the sale has completely closed.Full payment must be made by 8:00 p.m. the day after auction closes. If total payment is not received before the pick-up date & time, items will be forfeited, and bidding privileges revoked.

Pick-up information will be on the invoice e-mailed after the auction closes.All items not picked up during the designated times will be considered abandoned and may be donated or resold. When possible, and at our sole discretion, an alternate pick-up time may be arranged. If this is possible, an appropriate fee will be charged. 

A 10% Buyer's Premium and Sales Tax are added to the winning bid amount when invoiced. Sales tax is waived for licensed re-sellers.

We make every effort to describe lot items as accurately as possible. Expect normal signs of wear associated with antiques, vintage, and used items. We do not list every flaw. All items are sold AS IS WHERE IS. No refunds or returns. Sound Estate Company does not guarantee the working order of any clock, watch, electronic or mechanical device. Dimensions given may be approximate.

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