This exceptionally rare 1909 Hanukkah menorah (chanukiah) is an identical match to the example in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (object nmah_660496 / catalog 1981.0703.01), a documented U.S.-used tin Hanukkah lamp from the same year. Patented by Tobias Cohn of New York under US Patent No. 930,592 (issued August 10, 1909), the invention describes a die-pressed, single-blank metal device forming a combined oil-pan with wick spout and upward tubular candle-holder to catch drippings—innovative for economical, durable dual use of oil (traditional) or candles.

The curved back panel features embossed Hebrew inscriptions: central seven-branched menorah motif (symbolizing the Temple candelabrum), with "אור" (Or, "light") to the left, "מנורת" (Menorat, part of "Menorat Chanukah") to the right, and "חנוכה" (Chanukah) below. The left medallion bears the blessing "הנרות הללו אנחנו מדליקים" (Hanerot halalu anachnu madlikim - "These candles we light"). The right medallion reads "להדליק נר של חנוכה" (Lehadlik ner shel Chanukah - "To light the Chanukah candle"). The shamash (servant candle) holder is elevated on the right.

Nine scalloped drip pans are riveted to the base, each with a tubular holder enabling the patented dual oil/candle functionality. Small bottom protrusions ensure stability. The back shows a circular embossed "PAT" marking (for patent) with faded surrounding text (possibly partial patent reference, obscured by corrosion). Likely intended for distribution by American synagogues or Jewish organizations to families, reflecting early 20th-century Jewish life in the US during waves of immigration.

A true museum-grade rarity for Judaica collectors, historians, or institutions—potentially one of very few surviving private examples.

Material: Brass-plated tin metal (tin base with brass plating, showing heavy age-related oxidation, verdigris, patina, corrosion, and wear typical of early 20th-century tin Judaica)

Origin: United States; invented, patented, and manufactured in America by Tobias Cohn of New York, NY, under US Patent No. 930,592 issued August 10, 1909. The design was a general-purpose combined oil-pan and candle-holder, adapted here for a Hanukkah menorah configuration. The embossed Hebrew text and motifs indicate production for the American Jewish market, likely targeting immigrant communities. 

Age: 1909 (exact patent issuance date: August 10, 1909; matches the Smithsonian's documented example from the same year)

Condition: Good antique condition considering its age and use; authentic heavy patina with green verdigris oxidation across the surface, scattered corrosion, scratches, dirt buildup, and residual wax/oil in the scalloped drip pans and tubular holders. Some holders exhibit bends from historical lighting. All nine pans and holders remain intact and attached via riveting. Embossed Hebrew blessings and central menorah motif are clear and legible. No mounting holes or breaks; stable for tabletop display or careful use. The overall wear adds to its genuine historical character—professional conservation optional for preservation.

Matching Examples: Smithsonian National Museum of American History object nmah_660496 (1981.0703.01), a 1909 tin Hanukkah lamp used in the United States, with identical form, scalloped pans, tubular holders, Hebrew blessings, and overall design. No other exact duplicates found in public sales, auctions, or databases—possibly the only known privately held counterpart, underscoring extreme rarity.

Item dimensions: 3.25" tall × 9 13/16" wide × 2.75" deep  

Weight of item: 2.9 oz

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See Smithsonian collection:

https://www.si.edu/object/menorah:nmah_660496

https://americanhistory.si.edu/collections/object/nmah_660496

Id Number: 1981.0703.01

Accession Number: 1981.0703

Catalog Number: 1981.0703.01

Record Id: nmah_660496

Patent Info

TOBIAS COHN, of NEW YORK, N. Y.

OIL-PAN AND CANDLE-HOLDER.

Specification of Letters Patent.

Patented Aug. 10, 1909.

Application filed. September 9, 1908. Serial No. 452,338.

To all whom it may concern:

Be it known that I, Tobias Cohn, a citizen of the United States, residing in the city, county, and State of New York, have invented a certain useful Combination Oil-Pan and Candle-Holder, of which the following is a specification.

The object of my invention is to provide in an economical yet strong and durable manner a device, in which both oil and candles may be burned, or either one to the exclusion of the other.

My invention therefore consists in the article of manufacture, and in the particular shape or structural characteristics of the blank out of which the same is made, as hereinafter described and further

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