USDA Meat Inspection Marking Die Est. 384 Inspected and Passed Box Stamp Vintage

Before there were printed cartons and pre-labeled packaging, meat plants marked their own boxes and wrappers with a die like this one. The raised, mirror-reversed lettering reads 'U.S. Inspected and Passed by Department of Agriculture, Est. 384' inside a round border, the federal meat inspection legend, with the establishment number identifying one specific plant.

Details

• It would look great on a shelf or desk with butcher, farm, kitchen or industrial Americana, or as a conversation piece for anyone who collects old packing-house gear.
• a square dark composition face plate with four slotted screw heads, mounted on a gray metal block with four mounting holes in the back.
• Weight is about 0.49 lb (7.8 oz).
• It is a plate on a block only, with no handle or press holder.

Condition: Used, good. There is a dusty film on the face that should wipe clean, light surface wear and a mottled patina on the base block, and black marker scribbles on the back. No chips or cracks. See photos.

Please note: Sold as a collectible; not for use marking meat products.

The photos are part of the description, and it will be packed with care.