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Kuhn, Loeb, Co. Wall Street Banking Trunk, circa 1920s

About the Item

# Rare Kuhn Loeb & Co. Wall Street Banking Trunk, Circa 1920s I'm pleased to present an exceptional piece of American financial history: an authentic Kuhn Loeb & Co. banking trunk from the firm's legendary 40 Wall Street address in New York City. This remarkable artifact dates to the 1920s, during the height of the firm's influence as one of the most powerful investment banking houses in America. ## Historical Significance Kuhn Loeb & Co. was established in 1867 by Abraham Kuhn and Solomon Loeb, becoming one of the preeminent investment banking firms of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The firm played a pivotal role in financing major American railroads, industrial corporations, and international transactions, standing alongside J.P. Morgan & Co. as one of the most influential financial institutions of its era. By the 1920s, when this trunk was manufactured, Kuhn Loeb was helping to finance the rapid industrial expansion of America's "Roaring Twenties." ## Materials and Construction This trunk exemplifies the highest quality of industrial craftsmanship from the period. It features: - A galvanized sheet metal exterior, ensuring exceptional durability and protection - Copper-riveted construction throughout, visible in the meticulous rows of rivets securing each panel - Solid brass corner reinforcements and hardware, now showing a beautiful natural patina - Original brass locks and handles, demonstrating the superior metallurgy of the period - Pine wood interior shelving, providing practical organization and structure - A classic blue-gray interior finish typical of financial document storage of the era The ingenious folding design allowed this trunk to function as both secure transport and an instant mobile workstation for banking operations—a remarkable innovation for its time. ## Condition and Provenance This trunk retains its original stenciled Kuhn Loeb & Co. identification and 40 Wall Street address in the lid interior. The wear visible in the copper corners and metal surfaces tells the story of its use during a pivotal era in American financial history. The authentic patina and aged finish cannot be replicated, making this a genuinely unique historical artifact. ## Current Market Trends Vintage financial memorabilia, particularly from prestigious Wall Street institutions, has seen remarkable appreciation in value over the past decade. Investment-grade banking artifacts with direct provenance to legendary firms like Kuhn Loeb are increasingly sought after by: - Corporate collectors seeking authentic pieces for executive offices and financial institution lobbies - Museum curators adding to financial history collections - Interior designers creating sophisticated industrial or vintage office environments - Wall Street history enthusiasts and financial professionals The growing trend toward authentic industrial artifacts with historical significance has driven exceptional demand for pieces with this level of provenance and condition. ## Investment Value Beyond its aesthetic and historical appeal, this trunk represents a tangible connection to one of America's most influential financial institutions—a firm that helped build the nation's industrial infrastructure and shape its economy. Kuhn Loeb eventually merged into Lehman Brothers in 1977, making artifacts from its independent era increasingly rare and valuable. Considering its exceptional provenance, historical significance, and remarkable condition, this authentic Kuhn Loeb & Co. banking trunk is appropriately valued at $4,800.00. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a substantial piece of American financial history that will continue to appreciate in value while serving as a stunning conversation piece in any distinguished home, office, or collection.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 40.5 in (102.87 cm)Width: 27 in (68.58 cm)Depth: 19 in (48.26 cm)
  • Style:
    Industrial (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Brass,Copper,Sheet Metal,Wood,Galvanized,Metalwork,Other,Patinated
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1920s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading. This piece has been brushed and vacuumed off, but may have light surface dust remaining. No chemicals were used to clean it. Two of the front latches are missing. The original casters work beautifully.
  • Seller Location:
    Cordova, SC
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5969244962092

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