Starting Bid: $500

England, 18th Century

BRASS TOBACCO HONOR BOX

Rectangular box with handle at top and ball feet. "Rich's Patent" stamped on top. Also stamped "13885" next to an illegible name.
Height 7.5". Width 4.75". Depth 9.5".
Condition: Some small dents. Otherwise well preserved.

The absence of a condition report does not imply an object is free of defects. All items may have normal signs of age and wear commensurate with their age; these issues will likely not be mentioned in the condition report. Please contact Eldred's before the auction with any condition questions. Questions about condition will not be answered after purchase. Condition reports are provided as a courtesy, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Important note on frames: Frames are not guaranteed to be in the same condition as they are in the item photograph. Due to handling and shipping, many frames, especially antique ones, are prone to losses. If you have questions about the condition of a frame, please contact us prior to the auction.

William Dixon Collection.

Notes:
Honor boxes were early vending machines, typically found in pubs and inns. Depositing a coin would yield access to the tobacco compartment, from which the patron would be "on his honor" to take only a pipeful of tobacco.