Nathaniel Mills Vesta Case, 1849

Nathaniel Mills is regarded as the number one specialist box maker from Birmingham in the 19th century, however vesta cases made by him are scarce. This is because there is little overlap between his working period and the production of vesta cases. With a date of 1849, this match safe is an early example and bears the sought after "NM" maker's mark amongst the hallmarks spread between base and cover in typical Birmingham box style.

This mid-Victorian vesta case is beautifully engraved to both sides with a striker along one edge. It has a gilt interior and bears interesting presentation initials - originally given as a New Years' gift in 1851, the initials to the interior show how the box was handed down between generations. With just a little pitting to the interior, the vesta case is in generally good order with crisp engraving to the exterior.