Think it's just an old paint can? Look again, it's the latest collectible! Paint cans advertised themselves for a hundred years, and early cans are works of art. From tin pails with bail handles to cone-top cans, screw-top cans, and sample cans--they're all out there waiting to be collected and they're all featured in this fascinating new book. In addition to paint cans, a large cross section of paint advertising, including signs, giveaways, calendars, thermometers, toys, store displays, and novelties are illustrated in over 500 outstanding color photos. You'll find the famous Dutch Boy depicted on paint cans, window displays, and easel backs, and you'll also find tractor paint cans, bear paint cans, and even "Black Dinah" paint cans for Black Americana enthusiasts. And did you know that Uncle Sam and Miss Liberty carried gallons of paint? This is the first price guide in a brand new collecting field and covers items from the 1880s through 1980. Bet you're already wondering how much those old paint cans out in your shed are worth!

A love of signs and 25 years in the sign industry led Irene Davis to collect paint cans and paint collectibles. She and her husband live in Virginia.