An Early 19th century English Tavern Tobacco Box, sometimes referred to as an 'Honor Box,' circa 1820.

Made by the English firm of Martineau & Smith, this fine example (in good working order) has its' lid profusely engraved as follows: "One half penny put into this till, a pipe of tobacco you may fill, so when you've filled without delay, just close the lid or sixpence pay. William Brown, Star Inn, Maryport, Cumbria." Complete with a bag of English half pennys from the 19th and early 20th century. Length: 10" Historical note: Introduced into England as early as 1610, this was a primitive form of vending machine by which a customer could deposit a penny to open the lid of the box and, on his honor, take out just enough tobacco to fill his pipe.