Collectibles: Comics, Sports, Tobacciana
Lot 70:
Description
A trio of antique pocket match safes, also known as vestas, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. These items are constructed from gold-toned brass or a similar metal alloy and served as portable containers for friction matches. The first safe, produced for Abbott Brothers of Chicago, features a side-opening lid and is embossed with an ornate design including a central horseshoe. It is marked PIN-LA-CHAPELLE and GERMANY, indicating European manufacture for the American market. The reverse side displays a dense geometric and scrollwork pattern. The second safe is a rectangular knapsack style with a hinged top and ribbed spine. The front is embossed THE UNITED MACHINE AND SUPPLY CO N.Y. within a rectangular border, while the reverse is stamped KNAPSACK MATCHES LICENSED. The third and largest safe is another knapsack-style holder with a wide, ribbed hinged spine. The front features a central circular medallion embossed THE DIAMOND MATCH CO. LTD. with scroll and floral motifs in the corners. The reverse of this safe is a plain rectangular panel.
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