Items Similar to Early 20th Century Leather and Canvas Secured Mail Bag C. A. Hoffman & Sons
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 16
Early 20th Century Leather and Canvas Secured Mail Bag C. A. Hoffman & Sons
About the Item
Early 20th Century Leather and Canvas Locking Mail Bag by C. A. Hoffman & Sons, Arlington, California
This rare and evocative early 20th-century locking mail bag was manufactured by C. A. Hoffman & Sons of Arlington, California, a specialized producer of rugged courier and logistics gear. Crafted from heavy-duty canvas and reinforced with thick leather trim, this bag was designed for the secure transport of mail, documents, or valuables in government, military, or commercial use.
Stenciled on the body is the lettering: “Comderson 33, Staff 04, Comm Assist.” While the precise origin of the labeling is unclear, it appears to reference military or communications use—potentially a shorthand for "Commander Destroyer Squadron" or another administrative division. "Staff 04" and "Comm Assist" suggest a specific personnel assignment related to communications or dispatch services.
Stamped C. A. Hoffman & Sons, Arlington, CA, the bag reflects the high-quality American manufacturing typical of early 20th-century institutional supply. Hoffman was among several regional companies providing locking mail and equipment bags to postal systems, military branches, and railroads. Unlike fixed-lock systems, this bag was designed to accept any standard padlock, allowing the user to choose the level of security. The original leather locking strap is intact, strong, and fully functional, though no padlock is included.
The canvas shows wear and patina consistent with active use, and the leather has aged beautifully while retaining its structural integrity. This piece is both a functional historical artifact and a compelling decorative object—ideal for collectors of military equipment, postal history, or early 20th-century Americana.
- Dimensions:Height: 25 in (63.5 cm)Width: 16.5 in (41.91 cm)Depth: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)
- Style:Industrial (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Early 20th Century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Genearl wear, stains, structurally sound.
- Seller Location:Red Lion, PA
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU10258244663032
About the Seller
New to 1stDibs
Joined in the past six months.
5.0
Vetted Professional Seller
Every seller passes strict standards for authenticity and reliability
1stDibs seller since 2025
Typical response time: <1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Red Lion, PA
- Return Policy
Authenticity Guarantee
In the unlikely event there’s an issue with an item’s authenticity, contact us within 1 year for a full refund. DetailsMoney-Back Guarantee
If your item is not as described, is damaged in transit, or does not arrive, contact us within 7 days for a full refund. Details24-Hour Cancellation
You have a 24-hour grace period in which to reconsider your purchase, with no questions asked.Vetted Professional Sellers
Our world-class sellers must adhere to strict standards for service and quality, maintaining the integrity of our listings.Price-Match Guarantee
If you find that a seller listed the same item for a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it.Trusted Global Delivery
Our best-in-class carrier network provides specialized shipping options worldwide, including custom delivery.More From This Seller
View AllAmerican Arts and Crafts Early 20th Century Tall Plant Stand Gueridon
Located in Red Lion, PA
This elegant early 20th-century Pennsylvania Arts and Crafts tall plant stand or guéridon features a beautifully shaped octagonal top supported by four splayed legs. Crafted with cla...
Category
Antique Early 1900s American Arts and Crafts Gueridon
Materials
Wood
Early 20th Century Art Deco Streamline Cream Covered Serving Bowl
Located in Red Lion, PA
Early 20th Century Art Deco Streamline Cream Covered Serving Bowl
This elegant early 20th century Art Deco covered serving bowl exemplifies the streamline moderne aesthetic, with it...
Category
Early 20th Century American Art Deco Serving Bowls
Materials
Porcelain
1930's Finnigans of London Luxury Cognac Leather Suitcase Ruby Red Interior
By Finnigans, London 1
Located in Red Lion, PA
Rare 1930s Finnigan’s of London Cognac Leather Suitcase – Red and Gilt Interior
This exceptional 1930s leather suitcase by Finnigan’s of London captures the golden age of travel wi...
Category
Vintage 1930s British Art Deco Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
20th Century Handwoven Soft African Bolga Shopping Basket With Leather Handle
Located in Red Lion, PA
20th Century Handwoven African Bolga Basket with Leather Handle
This beautifully handwoven 20th-century Bolga basket is a soft-formed, organic piece made in the Bolgatanga region of...
Category
20th Century African Folk Art Decorative Baskets
Materials
Leather, Straw, Raffia
Tall 20th Century Renaissance Revival Liturgical Candlestick
Located in Red Lion, PA
Tall 20th Century Renaissance Revival Liturgical Candlestick – 45" High, Ornate Architectural Design, Polished Metal
An impressive and substantial 20th century Renaissance Revival c...
Category
20th Century American Renaissance Revival Candlesticks
Materials
Metal
Beautiful Bookshelf Marble Obelisk
Located in Red Lion, PA
Elevate your space with this striking Black Marble Obelisk, crafted from solid stone and distinguished by elegant white veining throughout. The timeless geometric form of the obelisk...
Category
20th Century Neoclassical Obelisks
Materials
Marble
You May Also Like
Early 20th Century Vintage European J. Cleve & Sons Portsmouth Trunk
Located in Fullerton, CA
This large 19th century shipping trunk has superb original paint and patina from its years of love. Crafted from solid wood throughout, it has metal banding and a distressed gold mak...
Category
Antique 19th Century European Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Metal
Early 20th century Indian screen
Located in Cesena, FC
Early 20th century Indian screen
Early twentieth-century Indian screen, polychrome.
India partition, composed of four hand-painted panels.
Richly decorated with fretwork and hand-pa...
Category
Antique Early 19th Century Indian Screens and Room Dividers
Materials
Wood, Paint
Early 20th Century Vellum Suitcase
Located in Brecht, BE
charming suitcase, from the 1920's
Category
Early 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Early 20th Century Goyard Case
Located in New York, NY
Hand-picked by buyers at Ann-Morris Inc.
Category
Early 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
Antique LOUIS VUITTON Leather Hardcase Suitcase – Early 20th Century
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Victoria, BC
A distinguished piece of travel history, this antique Louis Vuitton hardcase suitcase is a fine example of the craftsmanship that defined luxury travel in the early 20th century. Con...
Category
Early 20th Century French Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
20th Century Louis Vuitton Garment Bag Classic Monogram Canvas 80s
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Turin, Turin
The Garment Cover by Louis Vuitton from the 80s is fashioned from Monogram canvas with a well-designed construction to insure a comfortable carry, even wit...
Category
Vintage 1980s French Modern Trunks and Luggage
Materials
Leather
