German Snuff
Box dated 1871
This is a Wonderful Old Snuff Box
dated 1871. I think this could be either Odd Fellow or Masonic because of
the shaking hands (a sign of fidelity). In the instruction of the
First Degree, It is said that "our ancient Brethren worshipped deity under
the name of Fides or Fidelity, which was sometimes represented by
two right hands joined. The name engraved above hands reads "J.
ASHTON No 2-1871". Inside of box is lined with tin or zinc to
keep the snuff fresh. It measures 2 3/4 inches long and looks to be made
of Nickel or German Silver.
