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Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box
Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box
Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box
Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box
Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box
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Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box

  • This fascinating device is known as an honesty box and dates the early 19th century
  • Comprised of a double-hinged lid and two compartments, it was made to serve pipe tobacco
  • After inserting a coin, one could open the lid to take an "honest" amount of tobacco for the price
  • Crafted of brass, the coveted contraption is a charming relic of a bygone age
  • Get complete item description here
$7,850
Item No. 31-1847

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Description
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”. . .
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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
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Georgian Tobacco Honesty Box
Period: 19th Century
Origin: England
Type: Tobacco Accessories
Depth: 4.63 in. (11.75 cm)
Width: 9.5 in. (24.13 cm)
Height: 7.0 in. (17.78 cm)
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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