Replogle Library Globe Value Guide

Period
1950-1960
Origin
United States
Materials
Paper, cardboard, steel, wrought iron

Founded in 1930 by Luther Replogle in Chicago, Replogle Globes became the world's leading manufacturer known for hand-assembled accuracy and classic mid-century design. This specific library model is highly collectible for its distinctive wrought iron tripod stand and its representation of post-WWII geopolitical boundaries.

What affects the value of Replogle Library Globe?

  • Condition of the paper surface, specifically looking for foxing, yellowing, or peeling at the gore seams.
  • The structural integrity and original finish of the wrought iron stand, including the presence of original feet.
  • Geopolitical accuracy and the specific year of the map print, as certain historical snapshots are more desirable to collectors.
  • Legibility of the place names and the vibrancy of the original printed colors on the terrestrial map.

How to Identify Replogle Library Globe?

  • Check the cartouche for the Replogle Globes, Inc. logo and Chicago, Illinois manufacturing location.
  • Verify the presence of the original black wrought iron tripod base with its characteristic mid-century minimalist styling.
  • Examine the map for period-specific political markers such as the presence of the USSR or the division of French Equatorial Africa.
  • Look for the 12-inch diameter globe constructed from paper gores over a cardboard core, typical of the 1950s production era.

History of Replogle Library Globe

Replogle Globes was founded by Luther Replogle in Chicago in 1930. During the Great Depression, he began hand-assembling globes using printed maps from around the world. The company eventually became the world's largest manufacturer of globes, known for their educational accuracy and classic American design. This specific style featuring a wrought iron stand was popular for library and home study use during the mid-20th century.

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