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Lot 190:
First World War Princess Mary 1914 Christmas Gift Tin
Description
A First World War Princess Mary Christmas Gift Tin, dated 1914. This rectangular brass tin was produced for the Princess Mary Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Christmas Fund and distributed to members of the British, Colonial, and Indian Armed Forces on active service during the first Christmas of the Great War. The hinged lid is embossed with a central profile portrait of Princess Mary within a laurel wreath, flanked by the monogram letter M in cursive script. The decorative border features the names of the Allied nations: BELGIUM, FRANCE, SERVIA, MONTENEGRO, JAPAN, and RUSSIA. The top centre bears the legend IMPERIUM BRITANNICUM beneath a crown, and the base features a cartouche inscribed CHRISTMAS 1914.
Condition report:
The tin is in fair to good condition, showing an authentic aged patina with darkening to the brass. There is a significant dent to the front leading edge of the base section, which prevents the lid from seating perfectly flush. The interior shows surface oxidation and discolouration consistent with age and material. The hinge remains intact and functional. No original contents are present.
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