1914 Princess Mary Brass Box M37

Original, quality pressed brass tin with an embossed hinged lid bearing a cameo of Princess Mary, two 'M' monograms and panels around it with the names of countries allied to Great Britain in the 1st World War; Belgium, Japan, Russia, Monte Negro, Sierra and France. Complete and in good order. These brass tins, containing a variety of items dependent on the recipient, were given to all British troops serving overseas for Christmas 1914. The funds for these were raised by Princess Mary, daughter of King George V. Most but not all of the tins were issued with a pack of cigarettes, a pack of tobacco, a Christmas card in an envelope, a printed photo. of Princess Mary and a silver tipped brass shell case with a pencil inside. All items were marked with the monogram 'M' with a crown over. This very clean example has retained the original finish, a little rubbed but otherwise complete and in good order. This tin is without contents.