Apsco Giant Pencil Sharpener Value Guide

The Apsco Giant is a quintessential piece of mid-century Americana, manufactured by the Automatic Pencil Sharpener Company for use in schools and offices. Its enduring popularity among collectors stems from its heavy-duty construction and the iconic rotating disk designed to accommodate six different pencil diameters.

What affects the value of Apsco Giant Pencil Sharpener?

• Condition of the internal steel cutters; sharpeners that still produce a fine point command higher prices.
• The clarity and preservation of the original finish, as these units were often subject to heavy wear in school environments.
• Completeness of the unit, specifically the presence of the original mounting bracket and the integrity of the shavings cover.
• The material of the receptacle, with early all-metal versions often being more desirable to industrial-style collectors than later plastic-sided versions.

How to Identify Apsco Giant Pencil Sharpener?

• Look for the 'Giant' model name embossed clearly on the front of the rotating pencil guide.
• Verify the 'Apsco' brand mark and 'Made in U.S.A.' stamps on the metal frame or base.
• Check for the original shavings receptacle, which was typically made of metal or a thick vintage plastic depending on the specific production year.
• Confirm the presence of the six-hole selector dial, a signature feature of this specific model.

History of Apsco Giant Pencil Sharpener

Automatic Pencil Sharpener Company, or Apsco, was a prominent American manufacturer of pencil sharpeners, dating back to the early 20th century. Their sharpeners were widely used in schools and offices due to their robust construction and reliable performance. The 'Giant' model was one of their most popular designs, known for its ability to sharpen various pencil sizes, making it a staple in educational and professional environments for decades.