how to clean brass escutcheons?

Use a soft cloth to dust the metalwork gently. Avoid modern liquid polishes, as they leave a white residue in the grain of the surrounding wood. If the brass is very dark, leave it alone. The dull patina offers better protection and it's usually the right look for the age.

what is the best wax?

Clear microcrystalline wax is standard for both the wood and the metal components. It's a hard barrier against moisture and won't feed woodworm. Apply it sparingly with a clean rag. Buff it off immediately before it dries in the corners.

I've noticed the lid on the box I am looking at doesn't sit quite flat on the left side, is that normal?

Solid timber reacts to changes in humidity by expanding and contracting across the grain. Over a century or two of central heating and damp winters, a flat board will almost always cup or warp slightly. This movement is a standard feature of early wooden containers. You'll rarely find a solid lid that sits flat on all four corners today. If the lock still engages safely, the warp is just a part of its history.

My grandfather kept his letters in one that has a distinct green fabric lining on the inside, did they all come with that?

Makers lined the interiors with a variety of materials depending on the budget of the original buyer. Green baize was a common choice because it offered a soft surface that gripped the paper and absorbed minor shocks. Other boxes feature marbled paper or plain pine linings. Some owners added their own fabric later to tidy up a stained interior.

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Antique Document Boxes

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Antique document boxes are small, sturdy containers originally designed to secure deeds and personal correspondence under lock and key on a desk or during travel.