Vintage Aluminum Christmas Tree Value Guide

First manufactured in 1958 by the Aluminum Specialty Company in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, these trees became a definitive symbol of mid-century modern holiday style. They are highly sought after by collectors for their unique Space Age aesthetic and the nostalgic, festive glow they produce when paired with a rotating color wheel.

What affects the value of Vintage Aluminum Christmas Tree?

• The presence of the original box and all protective branch sleeves significantly enhances the $325 valuation.
• The overall condition of the aluminum needles, specifically looking for a lack of 'shedding' or permanent creasing.
• Inclusion of original period accessories, such as the mechanical rotating color wheel or the original stand.
• The height and branch density of the tree, with taller or 'Pom-Pom' style models often commanding higher prices.

How to Identify Vintage Aluminum Christmas Tree?

• Check for the original 'Evergleam' branding or Aluminum Specialty Company markings on the storage box or base.
• Verify the presence of a central pole with angled holes designed for individual aluminum branch insertion.
• Look for original paper sleeves which were used to protect each individual branch during storage.
• Confirm the materials are a mix of aluminum needles and a wooden or metal center pole consistent with 1960s production.

History of Vintage Aluminum Christmas Tree

Aluminum Christmas trees were a popular holiday decoration in the United States from the 1950s to the 1960s. The first aluminum tree was manufactured in 1958 by the Aluminum Specialty Company in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. These trees were marketed as a modern and reusable alternative to traditional green trees, reflecting the Space Age fascination and the burgeoning consumer culture of the era. They often came with a rotating color wheel that cast different hues onto the metallic branches, creating a distinctive and festive glow.