Eclectic Fall Finds: Timeless Treasures & Modern Marvels Closed (#19268661)

1939 DuPont No. 6 Blasting Caps Box – 100 Count, Groundhog Mine, Vanadium, NM (Inert)

This vintage DuPont No. 6 Blasting Caps Mining box, sourced from the Groundhog Mine in Vanadium, New Mexico, dated 1939, is a rare collectible for enthusiasts of mining history and industrial memorabilia. Manufactured by E.I. Du Pont de Nemours & Company in Wilmington, Delaware, this box originally held 100 blasting caps used for controlled detonations in mining operations. The box is now empty and inert, making it safe for display purposes.

The bright red box features the iconic DuPont logo and includes detailed handling warnings like "Handle Carefully" and "Keep in a Dry Place, Keep Open Lights Away." It provides an excellent glimpse into the safety precautions used for industrial explosives in the early 20th century. The box also references U.S. Patent No. 1,964,825, further marking its historical significance in the industry.

This specific box was used in the Groundhog Mine during a time when vanadium was mined for its use in strengthening steel alloys, contributing to the industrial growth of the United States during the early 20th century.

Includes:

• DuPont No. 6 Blasting Caps 100 box, empty and inert
• Provenance: Groundhog Mine, Vanadium, NM, 1939

Features:

• Brand: DuPont
• Product: No. 6 Blasting Caps (100 count, empty, inert)
• Material: Cardboard box with printed design and safety instructions
• Condition: Good, with minor signs of wear but well-preserved graphics and text
• Safety: The box is empty and inert, safe for display only

Historical Significance:
The Groundhog Mine in Vanadium, New Mexico, was a significant mining operation, extracting vanadium for use in steel alloy production. DuPont was one of the major manufacturers of explosives and blasting caps, supplying crucial products to mining operations like Groundhog. This box offers a direct connection to the industrial expansion of the American Southwest in the early 20th century, making it a prized collectible for mining historians and industrial enthusiasts alike.

Condition:
The box is in good condition with minor wear around the edges. The bold red branding remains vibrant, and the safety warnings are clear and legible. The label on the underside confirms the historical details, adding to the collectible nature of the item.

Note: This tin is empty and does not contain any explosive materials or blasting caps.

Size:

• 1.5" x 2.5" x 2"

Auction Location:
Available for local pick-up in Las Cruces, NM, or shipping to U.S. destinations.