"People are finding better places to put their money..."
So said auctioneer Philip Weiss in his recent exclusive interview with Paul Fraser Collectibles. And his Oceanside, New York, auction firm is set to prove this point next month...
Among the firm's rare and unique items for sale is this Demuth Punch cigar store figure.
The classic Demuth Punch |
The piece was manufactured by William Demuth & Co of New York. In its heyday, the company was a well-known distributor of carved pipes and cigar store trade figures.
William Demuth & Co was first formed in 1883. In partnership with Moritz Seelig, a Brooklyn foundry operator, it produced these renowned Punch antiques.
And this looks to be a particularly fine example of a classic Demuth Punch cigar store figure.
Given that another example previously sold at auction for $207,000 in 2008, and another for more than $100,000, all eyes will be on this little figure. We expect it to do well in the March 2 auction.
"This is shaping up to be one of the best three-day sales we've ever had - maybe the best of all," said Philip Weiss in pre-auction statement.
Watch this space for more news on the auction, or click here to read our exclusive interview with Philip Weiss.