*British, WW1-1914, Princess Mary Christmas Gift Fund Brass Tobacco Tin with Original 1915 Card and Sewing Kit*
A fine and complete original example of the Princess Mary Christmas Gift Fund brass tin, issued at Christmas 1914 to British and Imperial troops serving during the First World War. The rectangular gilt-brass box measures approximately 13 cm × 8.7 cm × 2.6 cm and features the embossed profile of H.R.H. Princess Mary within a laurel wreath, flanked by ornate “M” cyphers and framed by national emblems and the names of the Allied nations: France, Russia, Belgium, Japan, Servia, and Montenegro. The top scroll bears “Imperium Britannicum” above the central legend “Christmas 1914.”
This example retains its original gilded finish and includes its rare Princess Mary Christmas card dated 1915, printed with the royal cipher and the greeting: “With Best Wishes for a Victorious New Year – From The Princess Mary and Friends at Home.” Also present is the very scarce sewing kit insert — one steel needle and red cotton thread mounted to a shaped card backing that fits neatly within the tin. Such sewing kits were among the less common filler variations, issued where tobacco or sweets were unsuitable (e.g., for non-smokers, nurses, or colonial troops).
Measurements: Approx. 13 cm × 8.7 cm × 2.6 cm
Historical Note:
The Princess Mary Christmas Gift Fund was established in October 1914, the initiative of the seventeen-year-old Princess Mary, daughter of King George V and Queen Mary. Public donations exceeded £160,000, allowing over 2.6 million boxes to be distributed to “every sailor afloat and every soldier at the front” by Christmas 1914. The tins originally contained tobacco, cigarettes, pipe and lighter, or alternatively chocolates, spices, pencils, or sewing items depending on the recipient’s role and location.
Intended as a morale-boosting personal gift from the nation, the tins soon became treasured keepsakes, often carried throughout the war and preserved as mementoes of service. Surviving examples with complete and original contents—especially the correct 1915 card and sewing kit insert—are increasingly uncommon.
*Condition*
Tin in excellent condition, showing even age toning and minor surface marks consistent with age. The interior retains much of its original gilt wash, with hinges intact and fully functional. The original 1915 Christmas card is clean and well-preserved, displaying only light corner wear; the inner message card is detached from the outer cover, which has a split along the central fold. The original sewing kit card remains intact with light creasing and minor age splits; one needle and red thread are present. Overall, a desirable example. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMDOXACO_7791218484
