25031

John Adams Papier Mache Snuff Box. Extremely Rare, Possibly Unique, John Adams Papier Mache Snuff B

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 5,000.00 USD
John Adams Papier Mache Snuff Box.  Extremely Rare, Possibly Unique, John Adams Papier Mache Snuff B
<B> Extremely Rare, Possibly Unique, John Adams Papier Mache Snuff Box. </B></I> The first item of this type we have ever encountered for the second president. It would be nice to think this box could date from his Presidency, but we cannot recall seeing papier mache boxes in this style dating from much before the War of 1812. On the other hand, it seems unlikely that the box is from some sort of set of the Presidents, as we would have seen matching ones for other early Presidents. The most likely probability is that it was made in 1826 on the occasion of Adams' death. Various other items from that year marking the passage of both Jefferson and Adams were produced, and such boxes were made in numbers with various subjects during the 1820s. This example was apparently made in France for the American market (as were many manufactured goods at that time, particularly novelties), as the word "<I>Depose</B></I>" appears in tiny letters below Adams' name at the bottom. Condition is quite nice. There is a little minor rim wear, and a little of the typical fine surface crazing visible under magnification. But overall, above average condition for a box of this era. For collectors of early display items or for those trying to assemble a series of these boxes for presidents and statesmen, this is certainly a worthy acquisition for this prohibitively rare president. Diameter 3.4", Height .80".