Cigar Box Purse Value Guide

Originating in the United States during the mid-20th century, these cigar box purses represent a whimsical era of upcycling and folk art. This specific cocktail-themed example showcases the 1960s-1970s trend of transforming functional wooden tobacco crates into highly personalized, beaded fashion statements.

What Is Cigar Box Purse Worth?

The typical price range for Cigar Box Purse is $45 - $45 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the exterior wood and the integrity of the delicate beaded cocktail designs.
• Presence of original interior features, including fabric lining and any surviving cigar brand markings.
• The quality and craftsmanship of the bamboo handle and metal closure hardware.
• Collectibility of the specific theme, with whimsical cocktail or 'happy hour' motifs being highly desirable for retro enthusiasts.

How to Identify Cigar Box Purse?

• Verify the base is a genuine wooden cigar box, often retaining original paper labels or brand stamps on the interior.
• Check for era-appropriate materials such as bamboo handles, mid-century fabric linings, and hand-applied beadwork.
• Look for the specific cocktail-themed embellishments and hardware typical of 1960s-1970s American craft kits or boutique designs.
• Examine the hinges and clasps for vintage metal patina consistent with 50-year-old hardware.

History of Cigar Box Purse

Cigar box purses became popular in the mid-20th century as a creative form of folk art and upcycling. Initially crafted by individuals from discarded wooden cigar boxes, these unique handbags evolved into diverse expressions of personal style, often adorned with fabric, beads, paint, and other embellishments. They experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially among collectors seeking whimsical and distinctive accessories.