Set of Mid-20th Century Charga-Plates Including John Wanamaker Example

🔍 What These Are

Charga-Plates were early credit identification tools used primarily from the 1930s through the 1950s, issued by department stores to trusted customers. Each metal plate was embossed with the cardholder’s name and address, and often included a paper insert for a signature. These were swiped in mechanical imprinters at checkout — the direct precursor to the modern plastic credit card.

🔐 Historical Context & Notable Issuers in Your Collection

You have several historically notable issuers:

1. John Wanamaker

• A legendary department store with locations in Philadelphia and New York, considered one of the first true American department stores.
• The Wanamaker Charga-Plate is highly collectible due to the store’s historic status and closure in the late 20th century.
• The embossed address and stylized holder suggest this was mid-1940s to early 1950s.

2. Strawbridge & Clothier

• Another iconic Philadelphia department store founded in 1868, merged into Macy’s chain by the early 2000s.
• Collectors value this plate especially if tied to regional Pennsylvania or East Coast nostalgia.

3. Charga-Plate Group Inc.

• A national network for Charga-Plates issued through multiple stores.
• This example is notable for its New York address and wide distribution.
• The matching embossed address and signed paper insert give it excellent provenance.

📊 Market Value (Per Plate & Set)

Plate

Est. Value (USD)

Notes

John Wanamaker

$40–$75

Most collectible; historic store and stylish leather case

Strawbridge & Clothier

$25–$50

Less rare but still desirable

Charga-Plate Group (generic/national)

$15–$30

Common, but well-preserved examples have value

Full set of 3+

$100–$200

Especially with matching cases and clear embossing

Values are for collectors of ephemera, historical credit items, or department store memorabilia.

🧾 Collector Interest Factors

• Condition: Yours appear in very good shape, with clear embossing and intact leather/vinyl sleeves.
• Completeness: You have both front (signature) and back (embossed address) views, increasing desirability.
• Historical Ties: Regional collectors or those interested in mid-century retail, New York/Philadelphia history, or credit system evolution will find these pieces fascinating.

✅ Authentication

These plates were manufactured by Farrington Manufacturing Co., which developed the Charga-Plate® system. The small print on the plate stating “A Farrington Product” confirms authenticity. No further verification is needed for collector resale.

🏷️ Recommendation for Sale or Display

• Online marketplaces: eBay, Etsy, or Ruby Lane in the “ephemera,” “historical collectibles,” or “vintage credit” categories.
• Local antique dealers: Especially those focused on advertising, department store memorabilia, or pre-digital tech.
• Framing/display: These look great in shadow boxes with the sleeves and paper insert visible.

🔚 Summary

Your Charga-Plate collection is a well-preserved set of mid-20th-century American retail and financial history, especially highlighted by the John Wanamaker piece. The entire collection is likely worth $100–$200 in its current condition, with individual plates ranging from $15 to $75 based on rarity and store association.