Inkipedia

Souvenir – Missouri Mule

Categories Souvenir
Type World's Fair
Material Metal
Manufacturer Undetermined
Origin United States
Date or Era 1904
Measuring 4 ¼” x 1 ¾” x 3”

This souvenir inkstand from the 1904 St Louis Louisiana Purchase Exposition features a mule.  Made of metal with gold gilt, it reads “Show me, I’m from Missouri” on one side and “World’s Fair St Louis 1904” on the other.

The  term “Missouri Mule” was said to have been coined at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis when locally bred animals swept the competition in the six-mule wagon team. More than 1,000 mules were exhibited at the 1904 Fair from numerous states. The Missouri mule became a symbol of American strength, perseverance, and honesty.

Estimated value: $125

Sold for $208 in August 2023

Sold for $140 in November 2023 – missing the inkwell’s lid; Sold for $161 in June 2024 (no lid)

Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.

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