Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box

This rare brass box would have been a coveted contraption in the finest English pubs of the 18th and 19th centuries. Known as an “honesty” box, the rectangular brass box features a double-hinged lid and two compartments, one for coins and one for tobacco. After a coin is inserted into the slot and the button is pressed, the ingenious device opens to reveal the compartment full of pipe tobacco. Pub owners relied on the “honesty” of their patrons to only take one pinch of tobacco per half-penny coin, which is how the charming piece earned its moniker.

This example stands on turned feet and includes a carrying handle for extra convenience. Many such pieces have been lost to time, so to find an original box in working condition is truly outstanding.

Circa 1820

9 1/2" wide x 4 3/4" deep x 7 1/4" high