Vintage American Painted Metal Woodpecker on a Log Match Holder Vesta Case

Description

This painted cast metal woodpecker on a log match holder dates to 1947 when the design was patented by Charles Koenig of Dayton, Ohio.  Wooden match were kept inside the log and when you push the woodpecker’s head down (it’s on a spring), the two sharp points in his beak push into the match stick and when you release his head, he springs back up holding a match.  The match was then easily retrieved from the bird’s bill.  The striker was most likely the sides of the log.  On the inside of the upright section of the log is printed: Pat. No. D151773.  Some sellers of this woodpecker say he is a toothpick holder but I would think that the two metal points are too far apart to pick up a toothpick.  Several versions of this match or maybe toothpick holder log were made.  Most of the paint is present on this 4 ½ inch long by 3 ¼ inch tall piece but the red paint has some missing bits on the woodpecker’s head.   He weighs 4.8 ounces.  Postage should be around depending on where he is going.  I do not charge for packing and handling. Thank you for your interest and your bid.