Vintage Humphreys “77” Common Colds Medicine Bottle
Original circa 1940–1955 Humphreys “77” homeopathic cold-remedy vial, manufactured by the Humphreys Medicine Company, Inc. of New York, N.Y.
This diminutive clear glass medicine bottle measures approximately 2¼ inches tall and retains both its original printed paper label and original cork. The vial is now empty.
The label identifies the preparation as:
HUMPHREYS “77”
A Homeopathic Preparation
COMMON COLDS
It originally contained 32 tablets, 2½ grains each. The formula listed such wonderfully period ingredients as arsenious iodide, yellow jessamine, onion and Lachesis—a homeopathic preparation historically associated with bushmaster snake venom.
Dr. Frederick K. Humphreys founded his New York homeopathic medicine business in 1853. Its numbered remedies allowed customers to choose a medicine by complaint: one number for fever, another for asthma, and No. 77 for common colds. The company adopted the shortened Humphreys Medicine Company name in 1940, helping date this example to the mid-20th century.
The label remains remarkably complete and readable, with expected age toning, light staining, minor edge wear and a small split near the top. The original cork shows drying, cracks and small losses but remains firmly seated. The glass appears free of obvious chips or cracks.
A charming and unusually intact piece of vintage American pharmacy, homeopathic and medical-advertising history. Sold strictly as an empty historical collectible and not for medicinal use.
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