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Title (80 characters)
Vintage UF Fire Mark United Firemen’s Insurance Co Philadelphia Miniature Plaque
Alternative title:
United Firemen’s Insurance Co Philadelphia UF Fire Mark Miniature Plaque
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Category
Collectibles > Historical Memorabilia > Firefighting & Rescue > Plaques & Signs
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Condition Description
Pre-owned vintage condition with age-related wear. Surface scratches, finish loss, discoloration, oxidation, pits, and casting imperfections present throughout. Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the description.
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Description
Vintage United Firemen’s Insurance Company Fire Mark Plaque
Offered for sale is a fascinating miniature example inspired by the historic United Firemen’s Insurance Company (UF) Fire Mark of Philadelphia.
The original UF fire marks were issued during the late 19th century and mounted on insured buildings as symbols of fire insurance coverage. They featured a steam-powered fire engine and the initials “UF.” Original examples were large cast-iron plaques attached to homes and businesses.
This piece closely follows that famous design in a much smaller format, making it an unusual and desirable collectible for enthusiasts of firefighting history, insurance memorabilia, and early Americana.
The plaque displays:
• Raised steam fire engine design
• Raised initials “UF”
• Original mounting holes
• Rich red painted finish
• Heavy construction
• Nicely aged surface patina
• Wonderful display appeal
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Measurements
• Height: Approximately 3.5 inches
• Width: Approximately 2.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 8.5 ounces (241 grams)
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Historical Background
The United Firemen’s Insurance Company of Philadelphia was incorporated in 1860 by volunteer fire companies. Their fire marks became some of the most recognizable American insurance plaques of the Victorian era.
According to the Smithsonian Institution, original UF marks were large cast-iron plaques measuring approximately 9” × 11⅝” and were issued beginning in 1875.
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Important Disclaimer
I am not a fire mark expert, and this item has not been professionally authenticated.
Because this example is significantly smaller than documented original house-mounted UF plaques, I cannot guarantee whether it is:
• an early miniature version,
• a collector’s reproduction,
• a promotional piece,
• or a later decorative adaptation of the original design.
It is being sold exactly as found and exactly as photographed.
Please use your own judgment regarding age, authenticity, and intended use before purchasing.
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Item Specifics
Type: Fire Mark Plaque
Company: United Firemen’s Insurance Company
Region: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Theme: Firefighting / Insurance History
Material: Unknown
Color: Red
Vintage: Yes
Handmade: Unknown
Features: Raised Relief, Mounting Holes
Country/Region of Manufacture: Unknown
Modified Item: No
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Suggested Pricing
Buy It Now: $124.99 OBO
sale Start: $49.99
If a collector identifies it as an early period miniature example, it could attract stronger interest among specialized fire mark collectors.
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Seller Notes
Please enlarge and inspect all photographs carefully, as they constitute an important part of the description. Feel free to contact me with any questions before purchasing. Sold as-is, as-found, with no guarantees regarding age or authenticity.
