Historical Medical Memorabilia

The first of two lots featuring “pharma swap” also known as “drug rep merch.”  Before 2009, there was no limit on the number of drug branded trinkets pharmaceutical companies poured on medical doctors and their staffs.  Offerings ranged  from pens to pen lights, stuffed animals to magnifying glasses, golf balls to calculators,  all with a goal of keeping the drug/company in the prescribing physician’s eye.    To avoid government crackdowns on so-called “reminder” items,  “…the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, has issued a new voluntary code of conduct that prohibits distributing … brand-adorned freebies to the nation’s doctors.” (New York Times, July 2008).  Today, “pharma swag” appeals to historians and collectors alike.  This lot offers a gallon bag of pens, Allegra/Nasacort plug-in pen light (with box dated 2003 and instructions)’ a purple stuffed animal; eraser, paper clips, paper cutter, paperweight; calculator/ruler; eyeglass cleaner from Lilly, match boxes (more than two included); a dark fushia NIcorette twisty and much more as pictured.