1950s John McKinnell CLAN “Gordon” Full Dark Mixture — Unopened 2 oz Edinburgh Tin

Before the familiar Clan aromatic, there was another Clan entirely—made in Edinburgh by John McKinnell and dressed in the tartan of its name. This is Gordon, the Full Dark Mixture: an unopened two-ounce tin beneath one of the most striking Scottish tobacco labels of the mid-century.

John McKinnell operated from the Dunedin Tobacco Factory on Dunedin Street, Edinburgh. A June 1935 trade catalogue already lists Clan among the house’s tobaccos, confirming it as a distinct Edinburgh line rather than the familiar Dutch-style aromatic. A specialist inventory of early British tins dates Gordon specifically to the 1950s. With no year or production code visible, circa 1950s is the most precise and responsible dating for this example.

The lid’s deep blue and green pattern, crossed by a fine yellow overcheck, echoes the tartan long associated with Clan Gordon and the Gordon Highlanders. The clan motto, Bydand—abiding or remaining—feels especially fitting for such an enduring survivor.

No dependable factory recipe for Gordon has surfaced, so its leaf composition should not be invented. The designation “Full Dark Mixture” points toward a robust, richly matured tobacco in the mid-century British tradition. If sound when opened, one might reasonably expect dark toast, walnut, cocoa, earth and old leather, with restrained dried-fruit sweetness and perhaps a thread of dry woodsmoke. Decades of rest may have softened its sharper edges and deepened its darker character, although only opening could reveal what remains.

The tin is unopened, full and retains its original contents. When gently tilted, a slight, subdued movement can be heard inside.

The tartan paper label is richly colored and highly legible, with honest age toning, light scratches and surface wear. The metal carries age-consistent patina, scuffing and oxidation, most noticeably around the rim and base. A rare survivor from Edinburgh’s vanished independent tobacco trade, with exceptional presence for a vintage-tobacco cellar or serious collection of Scottish tobacconiana.

DETAILS

Maker: John McKinnell

Range: Clan Tobaccos

Blend: Gordon

Factory designation: Full Dark Mixture

Origin: Edinburgh, Scotland

Factory: Dunedin Tobacco Factory, Dunedin Street

Era: Circa 1950s; exact year unmarked

Approximate age: 67–76 years as of 2026

Net weight: 2 oz

Status: Unopened and full; original contents present

Brand note: Distinct from the familiar Dutch-style Clan aromatic

This auction contains tobacco.  If you live in certain states, you will be unable to purchase this product.