Lot 155
The Holland 250A Furnace Salesman Sample with Case is a highly collectible, c. 1930s1940s scale model used by door-to-door representatives of the Holland Furnace Company based in Holland, Michigan. These miniature units are highly prized by antique tool, industrial, and advertising collectors due to their intricate craftsmanship, historical significance, and internal electrical setups. Built primarily out of a combination of cast iron doors and a galvanized sheet metal or aluminum body. These samples are electrified (typically 110V) featuring a rear toggle switch that activates a small internal fan and lights up the interior to mimic an active, burning furnace for clients. Originally came housed in a custom wood carrying case finished in a black leatherette exterior, featuring protective metal corners, felt linings, and a rugged handle built to survive heavy travel. The front cast metal doors are clearly labeled with the "HOLLAND" brand name and the specific model designation "250A". The complete setup often includes a metal "Correct Operation" instruction sign tucked into the lid or a secondary sample box for the thermostat and wall controls. The Holland Furnace Company was founded in 1906 and became one of the largest heating companies in the United States, utilizing a massive fleet of door-to-door salesmen. Salesmen would carry these exact 250A samples into neighborhoods to pitch clean-air home heating. However, the company became infamous for aggressive, predatory "scare tactics"where salesmen would dismantle a homeowners working furnace and falsely claim it was a deadly hazard to force a sale. This led to a massive Federal Trade Commission (FTC) crackdown in the 1950s, and the company eventually folded by 1966. A miniature motorized fan in the back hums to life, pushing air through the scale-model heat exchanger to demonstrate "forced warm air" circulation to the prospective customer. Please ask specific questions on details, condition, and shipping prior to bidding, ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD AS IS, and the bidder will be responsible for payment. We box and ship what we can to keep costs low, and use USPS and UPS. Large items, extremely fragile, and high value items will be packed by UPS. Quotes available on request
- Dimensions: 12" tall furnace
- Condition: Very Good - Excellent Working Condition
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $49 | $5 |
| $50 | $99 | $5 |
| $100 | $199 | $10 |
| $200 | $499 | $25 |
| $500 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $2,999 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $9,999 | $250 |
| $10,000 + | $500 |