Michael Lehr Antiques
Live Auction

March 2026 Unreserved Photo Auction — Curiosities, Performers & Vernacular Photography

Sat, Mar 28, 2026 01:00PM EDT
  2026-03-28 13:00:00 2026-03-28 13:00:00 America/New_York Michael Lehr Michael Lehr : March 2026 Unreserved Photo Auction — Curiosities, Performers & Vernacular Photography https://auction.michaellehrantiques.com/auctions/michael-lehr-antiques/march-2026-unreserved-photo-auction-curiosities-performers-vernacular-photography-22648
Our March 2026 auction presents a wide selection of historical photographs, postcards, entertainment memorabilia, and visual curiosities spanning the mid-nineteenth through twentieth centuries. Every lot is offered completely without reserve, ensuring that each item sells to the highest bidder regardless of price. Combined purchases totaling $500 or more qualify for free shipping, providing collectors an added incentive to bid across multiple lots. The unreserved format creates opportunities for both new and experienced collectors to acquire unusual and historically interesting material.
Michael Lehr Antiques info@michaellehrantiques.com
Lot 157

Keystone Observation Balloon Preparation Stereoviews

Estimate: $50 - $400
Starting Bid
$10

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$200 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
Group of 8 stereoviews showing the preparation and inflation of a large military observation balloon. The views depict crews attaching ropes and equipment, sandbags being handled near the balloon basket, and the balloon gradually filling while workers and spectators gather around the field.

Published by the Keystone View Company with Medallion series mounts, the stereographs document several stages of the balloon inflation process including the valve area, attachment of cables, and the balloon nearing full inflation. One view shows a group assembled in front of a large American flag identified as descendants of the Washington family at a dedication ceremony for Washington Air Junction.

These images illustrate the practical operations surrounding early observation balloon work and the public events that accompanied early aeronautical demonstrations. The photographs form a cohesive visual sequence showing the technical process of preparing a large tethered balloon for ascension.

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Spend $500 or more at our auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE, buyers to pay insurance if they want it.