*British, WW1-1914, Princess Mary Christmas Gift Tin, Bright Brass Finish*
This is an original Princess Mary Christmas 1914 gift tin. These tins were distributed to British and Imperial troops during Christmas 1914 as part of a morale-boosting initiative led by Princess Mary, the daughter of King George V. The lid features a profile of Princess Mary encircled by a laurel wreath, her cipher “M”, and the inscription “Christmas 1914,” along with allied nations’ names: Belgium, France, Japan, Montenegro, Russia, and Serbia, and “Imperium Britannicum” at the top. Each tin originally contained items such as cigarettes, tobacco, sweets, a Christmas card, and a photograph of Princess Mary, though contents varied depending on smoking or non-smoking preference and service branch.
An evocative piece of wartime history and a highly collectible item, these tins are prized both for their historical significance and for their connection to the personal experiences of soldiers in the Great War.
*Condition*
This example is crafted from brass with a bright finish, retaining an attractive, polished appearance that is brighter than many surviving examples. The tin measures approximately 13 cm x 8.7 cm x 2.6 cm. It remains structurally sound, with expected age-related surface scratches> It has some denting along the upper front edge near the hinge line and minor spots of internal corrosion consistent with service use and long-term storage. The lid opens and closes securely, and overall presentation is very good for its age. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQBF_2644130525
