Revolutionary War Snuff Box, ca. 1765 – 1795, as in books

This is another early piece being offered; it is a Revolutionary War era snuff box, ca. 1765 – 1790.  It is hand-carved and has a removable lid with cord. It measures 2 ¾” x 2” x 2”.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries snuff production boomed, far outstripping smoking tobacco (or its US sibling, chewing tobacco). And it was even recommended by doctors as a general cure-all, particularly effective in the treatment of coughs, colds, and headaches.

Many Revolutionary War soldiers (both American and British) carried snuff in their haversacks in containers such as this one, they would wrap it in a handkerchief or sock. In "Collector's Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution", there is a similar example (see pictures).

Some of these snuff boxes were very elaborate, being brass, gold, and silver. Those were mostly used by the “well to do” and upper class. This type was kept simple for the average user. It would make a great addition to a display of Revolutionary War soldier’s personal effects.