Rare Antique Rex Carnival Ball Favors 1903 & 1904 Mardi Gras New Orleans Krewe

  

Offered here is an exceptionally rare matched pair of Rex Carnival Ball favors from 1903 and 1904, commemorating two early Mardi Gras seasons of the Rex Organization of New Orleans. 1903 Favor: Gilt brass twin-handled cup with raised "REX 1903" monogram.

1904 Favor: Ornate silver-plated lidded box marked "CARNIVAL 1904". Issued exclusively to attendees of Rex Carnival Balls. Original early-20th-century Mardi Gras ephemera. Over 120 years old These favors were produced in extremely limited quantities and not intended for public sale, making surviving examples scarce-especially as a paired offering spanning consecutive years. Historical Significance The Rex Carnival Ball favors are among the most sought-after pieces of New Orleans Mardi Gras history. Early examples like these represent the golden age of Rex, predating mass-produced souvenirs and reflecting the craftsmanship and exclusivity of turn-of-the-century Carnival culture. Visible age-appropriate wear, patina, and plating loss consistent with early 1900s items. Structurally solid with crisp detail and legible markings. Condition shown clearly in photos-please review closely?? Mardi Gras & Rex collectors. High-end Carnival memorabilia collections Pieces of this caliber rarely surface together and are increasingly difficult to source. Rex Carnival, Mardi Gras memorabilia, New Orleans Mardi Gras, Rex Ball favor, Carnival favor, antique Mardi Gras, Rex 1903, Carnival 1904, New Orleans history, Mardi Gras collectible, Rex krewe, vintage carnival, silverplate Mardi Gras, New Orleans ephemera, rare Mardi Gras item, NOLA.