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This is a vintage Squibb Tab-u-lator Tablet Counter produced by the Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. Features the classic Squibb logo and turquoise-blue diamond packaging design.
It is a triangular pharmaceutical pill and tablet counter used by pharmacists or medical professionals to count out medication tablets. Dimensions: 11/16 in x 5 5/16 in x 6 in.
This is an extremely rare find and is prized enough to be preserved in historical medical collections, such as the National Museum of American History (1981.0219.173).
Condition: Used in excellent condition. Box has wear as pictured.
Function: Long before pharmacies used electronic digital counters or automated bottling machines, tools like the Tab·u·lator were designed to help pharmacists and medical personnel rapidly count out exact numbers of pills, tablets, or capsules.
Design: This device features a distinct triangular or diamond-shaped cardboard envelope. Inside, a triangular sliding tray or slotted surface allows loose pills to be poured over it. The pills roll naturally into specific rows, columns, or dot patterns (as stylized on the front artwork). By filling the geometry of the slots, a pharmacist could visually subtotal and dispense quantities of medication efficiently without handling each pill individually.
The Brand: E.R. Squibb & Sons was a pioneer in American pharmaceuticals, well known for supplying standardized medical kits during the Civil War and developing various compounding and distribution aids for pharmacies throughout the mid-20th century. Today, vintage pharmaceutical items like this are sought-after collector's items.
Pricing & Offers:
I recognize that pricing for specialized medical ephemera can be subjective, as unique historical pieces are often difficult to value. While the asking price reflects the rarity of this object, I am open to reasonable offers. If you are a collector who values this specific piece of history, please feel free to reach out.
