Shantung is a paper straw that has been plasticized in some way, similar to Toyo. In general Stetson shantung are cheaper hats, certainly not in the same league as a handwoven toquillo straw of a Panama. They are machine made. New, contemporary hats $100 to $150
Yes , however shantung or washi and toyo are still paper straws regardless of being plasticized. Toyo can also be shellac-ed . Other words they arent all plasticized, and need not be in order to be called shantung or toyo.
It is hard to date an inexpensive, mass produced hat. If you know the era from which it came you can work it back from the current price of that type of hat.
Thats the point of my question , to find the era which hopefully one day someone from this forum will say " oh I remember that one " . Thats all thanks for your input.
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