Vintage Sellotape Tin Late‑1970s to Early‑1980s Self‑Adhesive Tape Container

This vintage Sellotape self‑adhesive tape tin is a classic example of late‑1970s to early‑1980s British stationery branding. Featuring the iconic Sellotape script logo displayed across a stylised white ribbon on a bold blue background, it captures the clean, practical design language of the era. The tin lists the tape size in both metric and imperial — 12mm x 66m (replaces ½" x 72 yds) — a hallmark of UK packaging during the metrication transition.

Originally used to house a roll of Sellotape, the tin remains bright and visually appealing, with crisp typography and a strong retro aesthetic. Light age‑related wear adds authenticity without detracting from its display value. This is an excellent piece for collectors of vintage stationery, office supplies, advertising tins or British household brands.

A charming and increasingly uncommon example of Sellotape’s earlier packaging, ideal as a shelf filler or part of a curated vintage desk‑accessory collection.

Sellotape and the Evolution of British Stationery Packaging

Sellotape has been a staple of British homes and offices since the 1930s, and by the 1970s it had become the generic name for clear adhesive tape. During the late 70s and early 80s, the brand used metal tins like this to protect tape rolls from dust and humidity — especially for office and industrial use.

The design reflects the era’s shift toward cleaner, more modern branding, while still retaining the flowing script logo that had become synonymous with the product. As packaging moved toward disposable plastic dispensers and cardboard sleeves in the mid‑1980s, tins like this were phased out, making surviving examples increasingly collectible.

Today, these tins appeal to enthusiasts of retro stationery, British design history and vintage office culture

Size: 12 x 12 x 2cm