I have been searching for practical snuff boxes for a while. I wanted something reminiscent of what a regular person would have used when snuff was more mainstream, so I don’t really care for some of the designs of what’s commonly available on the sites we all go to.
On the other hand, I’m not really in the market for expensive antiques, nor for damaged goods which are sold simply as curios.
I came across these which look like they might do. What do the more experienced think?
The hinges won’t be up to it on the flip top ones and will leak snuff and let in air, probably profusely - they are just not manufactured to the tolerances needed.
The pull off/push on type tins may work depending on how close fitting they are. If you just want a plain tin why not use a Toque tin with the label peeled off - you are definitely getting something snuff proof with those and the tins in that catalogue are probably of no higher quality.
As stated I don’t think those would be very leak proof or airtight, I reuse 10g Toque tins or the screw top tins (same ones Mr. Snuff sells) on the same site as the rectangular tins you mentioned…http://www.specialtybottle.com/screwtoptincontainersmi.aspx, they can be tough to open though, I usually carry a little rubber gripper to open.
Best thing that has worked for me is to set up a saved search on that auction site for “silver snuff box” or “silver pill box” and wait for the right one to come to you. A lot of people have no idea what a snuff box is and classify them as pill boxes. I have picked up a couple of nice silver boxes for less than $50US that way.
Are you in the US? If so, then you might have a look at this Canadian seller - http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Crown-Antique-Services?_trksid=p4340.l2563 - who has two lots that look good. The three boxes listed as two wood and one bakelite are worth a go - the wooden boxes look good and the one he says is bakelite looks to me like papier mache. Also, the one he lists as 1930s Danish silver plate is a good size and in good condition. I have had a number of very nice boxes from eBay which I use regularly - if you go for listings which have clear photographs and descriptions you should be OK.
I used to use Altoid box before I bought a snuff box. Didn’t leak too bad.
edm
No those are light weight tins with holes threw the side ,you snuff would dry out and leak threw the hinges.They would be good for mints or candy.A snuff box should be reasonably air tight and durable if for the pocket. preferably with rounded corners. I carried some snuff boxes in a tobacco pouch with a spoon tucked where the pipe storage is,Makes it easy to locate and protects then from damage.
I doubt it. But check this poor picture of a neat looking snuff box.
http://antique-prices-appraisal.values4antiques.com/A-SWISS-GOLD-AND-ENAMEL-SNUFF-BOX–6dec1