Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1870s.
This is a unique and rare example, signed in two places by the maker "Halstaff & Hannaford, Manufacturers, 228 Regent St, London", one signature is on the underside of the sprung brass "Letters" slot cover and the other on the brass match strike within the drawer.
The top is crowned with a large domed or Cabochon crystal set in a polished brass mount magnifying the grand family monogram on a gold background crowned with a family crest of a Stag holding a twig in it's mouth, I have not been able as yet to identify the family this was made for.
The front retains the original postal rate card (which is rare in itself), this is accessed from the little door on the reverse. These rates were introduced in 1871, helping us identify the age of this piece fairly accurately. Underneath this card is another original generic card, totally untouched, this box has clearly been with the same family for many years.
The box comes with a working key, and once the front is opened, the leather lined interior is revealed. Underneath is a full length drawer with a double postage stamp compartment with a sloped interior, and the brass match strike to the front. Other accessories could have been stored here such as sealing wax, a seal etc.
Quite magnificent, in excellent condition, measuring 9 1/4" across the base x 17" tall to top of crystal mount.
Item ID: 33959
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Puckerings has dated this piece to the 1870s.
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Rare Antique English Letters Post Box by Halstaff & Hannaford - Crystal Topped C.1870
