*British, c. 1958, Royal Navy Vintage Wooden Rugby Ball Cigarette Dispenser / Carousel Holder Presentation Piece*
An unusual mid-20th century novelty cigarette dispenser constructed in the form of a rugby ball, retaining its original carved wooden body with opening hinged lid and internal sprung carousel dispensing mechanism. The piece is mounted upon a black-painted display plinth with engraved presentation plaque reading:
“Presented to Commodore C.E. Keys ADC R.N.
President
Devonport Services R.F.C. 1951/52 and 1957/58
In Appreciation of His Great Services to the Club.”
The dispenser operates by lifting the upper section, revealing four tiered internal cigarette racks designed to present cigarettes in a fan-like arrangement for easy selection. The carved exterior features stylised stitched lacing to the upper surface, strongly evoking a traditional leather rugby football.
This appears to have been a bespoke club presentation or retirement gift connected to Devonport Services Rugby Football Club and Royal Navy officer Commodore C.E. Keys, ADC RN, adding strong naval and sporting association appeal. The combination of rugby memorabilia, Royal Navy presentation history, and functional novelty tobacconist design makes it an attractive decorative collector’s item.
Approx. Measurements – 14 cm tall overall. Rugby ball body approximately 25 cm long.
History Note:
Devonport Services RFC is one of the historic military-associated rugby clubs connected with the Royal Navy community in Plymouth and Devonport. Presentation pieces of this type were often commissioned privately for senior officers, club presidents, or retiring committee members during the 1950s and 1960s. The “ADC RN” designation refers to Aide-de-Camp to the Sovereign within the Royal Navy, indicating a senior and distinguished naval appointment.
*Condition*
Overall structurally sound with good aged appearance throughout. The wooden rugby ball retains a deep warm patina with scattered handling marks, scratches, small surface dents, and age-related wear consistent with decades of display use. Hinged lid opens correctly and the internal dispenser mechanism remains present and functional. Some light tarnishing and oxidation to the brass retaining bars internally. The presentation plaque remains attached to the plinth base and is legible. Minor wear and fading to the black-painted stand and felt underside. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMABEXBAE_7968245839
