In 1892, Joshua Pusey invented the matchbook, and within two years, Diamond Match Company purchased all the rights to it. Over the years, countless matchbooks have come out. Some matchbook covers were early attempts at advertising, and others were pure artistry. While some collect coins or stamps, phillumenists collect matchbooks. Let’s take a look at some of the most valuable matchbook covers in history!
Mendelson Opera Matchbook
Despite the commonly accepted belief Diamond Match Co. made this matchbook, Binghamton Match Co. truly made it. The Mendelson Opera matchbook was one of the first attempts at using matchbooks for marketing.
Not only is this matchbook vintage, but only a limited number came out in the late 1800s. It’s possible it’s handmade! Seeing the true Mendelson Opera matchbook is a rarity because the photos displaying it are infrequent.
Charles Lindbergh Matchbook
The Charles Lindbergh matchbook isn’t just rare—it’s among the most sought-after matchbook covers. Interestingly, it landed a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as most valuable in the world after one sold for $6,000 in 2015.
Why is this matchbook cover so unique? No one knows for sure. But what we know is only around 200 copies were made for a special dinner at the Astor Hotel in New York to pay tribute to Lindbergh’s 1927 flight across the Atlantic.
Another reason for this matchbook rarity is there are only a few left in existence. Unfortunately, by 2012, only eleven remained in the entire world, leaving most collectors only dreaming of seeing the Charles Lindbergh matchbook in person.
Other Rarities
Some of the rarest matchbook covers made political statements in the World War II era, while other valued matchbook covers depict sports teams. For instance, a matchbook cover depicting the 1965 season schedule for the Boston Red Sox sold for over $2,000.
The Lillian Russell Cigar is yet another sought-after matchbook cover because so few are left and with increased scarcity comes higher value.
Some collect matchbooks handed out by popular restaurants or even hotels that have since gone out of business. One thing remains: almost all of the most valuable matchbook covers in history are decades old. Over the years, many use matchbooks either as marketing tools or mementos.
If you’re looking for branded matchbooks for your next marketing event, shop at Maryland Match! Get the perfect promotional item that people will value in their homes. And who knows—one day, it might even land a spot among the highest valued matchbook covers!