Brass Tobacco "Honesty Box,"

Description:

Brass Tobacco "Honesty Box," England, c. 1850, rectangular box with coin slot, twin compartments, button, and handle, on ball feet, (imperfections),ht. 7, wd. 4 3/8, lg. 9 1/8 in.

Note: Used primarily in pubs, patrons inserted a coin and pushed the button, which opened the compartment, and took a pipeful of tobacco. They were not supposed to take more, hence the term "honesty box."
Estimate $200-400

The mechanism partly works on the honesty box. The lever that releases the opener to the tobacco well does not seem to work, but it can be opened by manually releasing it. There are a few dimpled dents on the sides and ends.




The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

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